Anthurium bogotense Schott

• Genus: Anthurium
• Botanical Background: Described by botanist Heinrich Wilhelm Schott in the 19th century, Anthurium bogotense has since been a subject of interest among taxonomists studying the diverse Araceae family

• Geographical Range: Native to the high-altitude cloud forests of Colombia, typically found between 1,500 and 2,000 meters above sea level
• Environment: Prefers cool, humid environments with consistent rainfall; thrives in shaded areas with well-drained, acidic soils

Leaves

• Glossy, dark green
• Can grow up to 40 cm long
• Broadly lanceolate in shape
• Prominent venation

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Creamy-white spathe that surrounds a narrow, elongated spadix
• Flower's scent is faint, and it is primarily pollinated by small insects
• Spathe is sometimes flushed with pink hues as it matures

Growth Habit

• Primarily terrestrial but can adapt to epiphytic conditions
• Grows from a rhizomatous root system and can form dense clumps over time

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light
• Direct sunlight can cause leaf scorch, so a filtered light environment is ideal

Watering & Humidity

• Water regularly, ensuring the soil is moist but not soggy
• Prefers high humidity levels (60% or higher) to replicate its natural environment

Soil & Potting Mix

• Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and pine bark
• Soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Ideal temperatures range between 18°C and 26°C (65°F to 80°F)
• Balanced liquid fertilizer once every 4-6 weeks; avoid feeding in the winter months when growth slows

Division and Cuttings

• Propagated by rhizome division or stem cuttings
• Ensure cuttings have at least one node, and keep them in high humidity until roots form

Seeds

• Less common and can be slow
• Need a warm, moist environment to germinate

Typical Issues

• Aphids, spider mites and mealybugs
• Overwatering can lead to root rot
• Poor air circulation can foster fungal diseases like anthracnose

Treatment Recommendations

• Use insecticidal soap or neem oil as a safe, organic treatment
• Allow the soil to dry out between waterings and ensure good drainage

• Not widely known outside of aroids enthusiasts but is valued for its distinct foliage and flower structure
• It also plays a role in native ecosystems, providing habitat for local pollinators
• Its glossy, dark green leaves and elegant, creamy inflorescences, this species is prized for ornamental purposes, particularly in shaded tropical gardens and indoor plant collections

Wild Population Status

• No specific conservation concerns for Anthurium bogotense, though habitat loss due to deforestation in Colombia can be a general threat to many high-altitude species in the region

Market Availability

• Not as commonly available as some other anthuriums, Anthurium bogotense can be found through specialized collectors and aroid nurseries, especially in the U.S. and Europe