Are you an avid lover of the anthurium genus? Then we have something beautiful, unique, and ornamental for you to decorate your inner spaces with. The beauty is called Anthurium Pallidiflorum.
This evergreen pendant leave plant is so unrealistically stunning, that you won’t resist touching it – just to confirm whether it’s real or not. It’s an easy-to-care-for household plant that can easily be placed in a hanging basket to enhance the beauty of your entire place.
Read this guide to know some interesting facts about this unique herbaceous and learn how to take care of it.
Anthurium Pallidiflorum Classification
Family – Araceae
Genus – Anthurium
About
Anthurium Pallidiflorum, also known as the Strap Leaf Anthurium, is a species of flowering plant in the family Araceae. It is native to Colombia and Ecuador and is often found in lowland forests and subtropics regions.
This unique plant has long, slender velvety leaves with a sheen that mesmerizes the beholder. First introduced by Heinrich Gustav Adolf Engler in 1898, this aroid is very rare.
it is considered to be the least-concerned genus of the Porphyrochitonium section of Anthuriums; and also an endangered species of plants due to habitat loss. So if by any chance you could have it, consider yourself lucky.
Common Name And Synonym
Anthurium Pallidiflorum is commonly known as Strap Leaf Anthurium, Velvety Strap-Leaf, and pendant leaved anthurium. It is also known by its synonym, Anthurium veitchii.
Origin
This species of anthurium is a native of Colombia and Ecuador. Due to the continuous loss of its natural habitat, it has been included in the endangered list of plants. The prime reason for this is deforestation for the purpose of agriculture and cattle ranching.
Features of Anthurium Pallidiflorum
Stems and Foliage
This species is an aroid and has long, slender, strap-shaped leaves that can grow up to 100 cm in length. Its dangling leaves come with a velvety texture along with a capturing sheen on them which gives utopian vibes. Also, the flowers or spadix of this plant are inconspicuous and pale in color.
They grow on an inflorescence that is surrounded by a large, glossy, heart-shaped bract that can be up to 20 cm long and 18 cm wide. Compared to the leaves, the stems are bent and shorter which makes the leaves dangling down the pots.
Height
Anthurium Pallidiflorum can grow up to 100 cm in height and 50 cm in width if properly cared for. In ideal conditions, the leaves of this plant can grow about 36 cm in length.
Evergreen And Durable
This species is an evergreen perennial that can live for more than five years if provided with the right conditions. It can even survive in low light.
Dormancy
Anthurium Pallidiflorum needs the right amount of light to grow, and when there isn’t enough light, it grows more slowly. Because of this, when winter comes and the light and temperature go down, this plant slows its growth almost to a stop.
This is when it goes to dormancy for a while. It stays like this until spring when the weather is good again for growing.
Maintenance
Anthurium Pallidiflorum is a low-maintenance plant and doesn’t require too much care. The only thing you need to be careful about is not to overwater it as it can lead to the rotting of roots. Also, make sure that the pot you’re using has drainage holes in them so the water can pass through easily.
Toxicity
Due to the presence of dangerous calcium oxalate crystals in sap, all parts of this plant are toxic if ingested. If you have pets at home, it is best to keep them away from this plant. Also, wear a pair of gloves while dealing with this plant.
Anthurium Pallidiflorum Care
If you’re looking for a plant that’s low-maintenance and easy to care for, anthurium pallidiflorum is a great choice. While anthuriums don’t require a lot of attention, there are a few things you should keep in mind if you want to keep your plant healthy and happy.
Learn these few important care tips for this strap leaf anthurium and your anthurium is good to go for 5 more years.
Quick Care Guide
| Water | Light, Once a week |
| Light | Bright, indirect sunlight, Morning |
| Humidity | High Humidity, 60-70% ideally |
| Fertilizer | Liquid Fertilizer (only during spring and summer) |
| Repotting | Larger ceramic pot to plant (every 2 years) Hanging baskets |
| Soil | Rich, well-draining soil High in organic matter |
| Grooming & Pruning | During fall and spring |
| Placing | A humid, warm place with indirect sunlight |
Water Requirement
Anthurium Pallidiflorum doesn’t require too much water and can even tolerate drought conditions. However, you need to keep an eye on its watering schedule.
As mentioned earlier, this plant is susceptible to root rot. To avoid this, It is best to water this plant when the soil feels dry to the touch. The ideal watering schedule is once a week in summer, and once per 2 weeks in winter.
Soil Requirement
Due to its native habitat, this plant requires organic and humus-rich medium to thrive. In between the rich, thick trees, this plant uses to get its nutrients from food waste falling from the trees onto the soil and increase fertility for other plants.
To grow Anthurium Pallidiflorum, you need to imitate its native conditions. Make sure the potting mix drains effectively and has a fair amount of air in it.
It must also be able to retain moisture. Sphagnum moss or a peat-based potting mix is the perfect growing medium for these Anthuriums.
Light Requirement
As we mentioned before, these plants need proper lighting conditions to thrive. Not too much to burn its foliage nor too little to slow down its growth process; just the right amount. Usually, it requires medium sunlight and some exposure to morning sun to flourish, however, it is suggested to keep it under indirect sunlight for the first few days to protect it from travel shock.
Fertilizer Requirement
Since the leaves of this plant are large, it requires a fair amount of fertilizer to keep them healthy and growing. However, too much fertilizer can damage the roots, so be careful while applying it.
It is best to use a water-soluble fertilizer that is high in phosphorus in during the growing season which is from late spring to early fall. Apply it once a month, diluted to half the recommended amount.
Temperature Requirement
The ideal temperature for this plant is between 18-24 degrees Celcius. If the temperature outside falls below freezing point, it is best to bring the plant inside as it can damage the foliage.
Humidity Requirement
Anthurium pallidiflorum plant requires high humidity to thrive. The ideal range is 60-80%. If you live in an area with low humidity, you can create a humid environment for your plant by placing it on a pebble tray or using a humidifier.
Placing Requirement
This plant looks best when placed in a bright spot in the room. However, make sure to protect it from direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
Grooming And Pruning Requirements
Pruning is necessary for this plant as it keeps the growth in check and promotes bushier growth. It also helps to remove any dead or dying leaves and flowers so that the plant can focus its energy on healthy growth.
You can do this by cutting the stems back to about two inches from the main plant. It is best to do this after the blooming season is over which is usually in late summer or early fall.
Repotting Requirement
This plant should be repotted every two to three years. The best time to do it is in the spring before the growing season starts. When repotting, be careful not to damage the roots and use a ceramic pot that is only one size larger than the current pot.
Anthurium Pallidiflorum Propagation
This plant can be propagated by division or stem cuttings. For division, carefully remove the plant from the pot and divide it into two or three sections. Each section should have at least one root ball. Replant each section in a separate pot and water well.
For stem cuttings, take a cutting that is about four inches long and has at least two leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cutting in the rooting hormone.
Plant the cutting in a pot filled with sterile potting mix and water well. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. The cutting should root within four to six weeks.
Pests And Diseases
Anthurium pallidiflorum plant is susceptible to mealy bugs, aphids, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The most common disease that affects this plant is root rot. As we mentioned before, it is caused by overwatering the plant.
The best way to prevent it is to water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch. If you notice any signs of root rot, such as yellowing leaves or wilting, it is best to report the plant in a fresh, sterile potting mix.
Summary
Anthurium pallidiflorum is a beautiful plant that is perfect for those who are just starting to get into gardening. It is easy to care for and does not require much attention. With proper care, this plant will thrive and bloom for many years to come.
