How to care for Anthurium warocqueanum?
The Anthurium warocqueanum, also known as the Queen Anthurium, is a stunning plant prized for its large, velvety, heart-shaped leaves. Here’s how to care for it to keep it thriving indoors:
Light:
- Bright, indirect light: Anthurium warocqueanum prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid harsh direct sunlight, especially during the afternoon, as this can scorch the leaves. A location near a window with sheer curtains or dappled sunlight filtering through trees is ideal.
Watering:
- Moist but not soggy: Aim for consistently moist soil, but not waterlogged. Unlike some Anthuriums, Queen Anthuriums can tolerate drying out slightly more between waterings. Here’s a good approach:
- Check the soil moisture regularly. Stick your finger into the top inch of soil. If it feels dry to the touch, it’s time to water.
- Water deeply when watering, allowing excess water to drain freely from the pot. Avoid leaving the plant sitting in water.
Humidity:
- High humidity preferred: Anthurium warocqueanum thrives in high humidity levels (around 60% or more). This can be a challenge in drier climates. Here are some ways to increase humidity:
- Use a pebble tray filled with water placed under the pot (ensure the pot sits above the water level).
- Group plants together to create a humid microclimate.
- Run a humidifier near your plant.
- Mist the leaves regularly with filtered or distilled water (avoid excessive misting which can encourage fungal diseases).
Temperature:
- Warm temperatures: Maintain a warm temperature range between 65°F and 85°F (18°C and 30°C). Protect your Anthurium warocqueanum from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.
Soil and Potting:
- Well-draining potting mix: Use a well-draining potting mix that allows for aeration. Here are two options:
- Aroid mix: A commercially available aroid mix specifically formulated for plants like Anthuriums is a good choice.
- DIY mix: Create your own mix using equal parts potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark. This will provide good drainage and aeration.
- Potting considerations: Choose a pot with drainage holes that is slightly larger than the root ball of your plant. Terracotta pots can be a good option as they allow for better breathability.
Fertilizing:
- Light feeding: Anthurium warocqueanum is not a heavy feeder. You can fertilize it monthly during spring and summer with a diluted balanced fertilizer or a fertilizer specifically formulated for aroids. However, fertilizing is not essential for healthy growth.
Additional Tips:
- Wipe the leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve light absorption.
- Use filtered or distilled water whenever possible, as Anthurium warocqueanum is sensitive to minerals in tap water.
- Brown leaf tips can be a sign of low humidity, underwatering, or mineral build-up from tap water.
- Avoid harsh chemicals or furniture polish near your plant.
Anthurium Warocqueanum Dark Form vs Green
For the longest time, I craved the drama of the Dark Form Anthurium. Its deep, almost black leaves felt sophisticated and mysterious. I finally snagged one, and let me tell you, it’s stunning. The leaves are velvety soft, and the contrast with the white veins is incredible. But here’s the thing: it feels a bit… moody. It needs very bright, indirect light to maintain that darkness, and even then, some new leaves come in a touch greener.
Don’t get me wrong, I love it. But then I entered the world of the Green Form Anthurium. This one is a breath of fresh air! Its leaves are a lush, deep green, and they seem to catch the light in a way the Dark Form doesn’t. It feels more forgiving light-wise, too. Maybe it’s not quite as dramatic, but it brings a whole different kind of jungle vibe to my plant shelf. Now, I find myself constantly moving them around, trying to decide which one I like better. It’s a good problem to have, right?
How to propagate Anthurium warocqueanum?
Propagation of Anthurium warocqueanum is typically done through division or stem cuttings. For division, carefully remove the plant from its pot and separate a section with roots and leaves, then plant it in a new pot with fresh potting mix. For stem cuttings, cut a healthy stem with at least one node and some aerial roots, then plant it in a moist, well-draining mix. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid environment until it establishes roots and new growth appears.
How to root Anthurium warocqueanum?
To root Anthurium warocqueanum, take a cutting with at least one node and some aerial roots. Plant the cutting in a well-draining mix of orchid bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss. Keep the medium moist but not waterlogged, and maintain high humidity around the cutting. Place it in a warm location with bright, indirect light. A propagation box or plastic bag can help maintain humidity. Roots should develop within a few weeks to a couple of months.
Is Anthurium warocqueanum a climber?
Anthurium warocqueanum is not a climber in the traditional sense, but it does benefit from support as it grows. Its long, pendant leaves can be supported by a moss pole or other structure to mimic its natural habitat, where it grows as an epiphyte on trees. Providing support helps the plant grow healthier and display its impressive foliage better.
Why is Anthurium warocqueanum so expensive?
Anthurium warocqueanum is expensive due to its rarity, slow growth rate, and specific care requirements. It is highly sought after by collectors for its unique, striking foliage, which features long, velvety leaves with prominent veins. Additionally, it requires high humidity and careful maintenance to thrive, making it less accessible to casual gardeners. Limited availability and high demand contribute to its high price.
