Anthurium bernalii Croat

• Genus: Anthurium
• Botanical Background: Described by by aroid specialist Dr. Thomas B. Croat, a leading authority on Anthurium. It honors botanist Ignacio Bernal for his contributions to tropical botany.

• Geographical Range: Endemic to Ecuador, particularly found in moist tropical forests on the eastern slopes of the Andes.
• Environment: Prefers humid, shaded environments at mid to high elevations. Grows best in rich, well-draining organic soils with consistent moisture and airflow.

Leaves

• Cordate, velvety texture

• Dark green with pale veins

• Grows up to 25 cm long

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Slender spadix with a greenish to purplish spathe

• Attracts beetles for pollination

Growth Habit

• Terrestrial or epiphytic

• Clumping growth with short stem and adventitious roots

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light

• Avoid direct sun to prevent leaf scorch

Watering & Humidity

• Keep soil evenly moist, not soggy

• High humidity (70%+) supports healthy foliage

Soil & Potting Mix

• Chunky, airy mix with sphagnum moss, perlite, bark, and organic matter

• Mimics forest floor conditions

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Ideal range: 18–25°C (64–77°F)

• Apply diluted balanced fertilizer monthly during growth

Division

• Divide mature clumps carefully, ensuring each has roots or a viable node

Stem Cuttings (if applicable)

• Can be propagated from stem segments with visible roots or nodes

Seeds

• Rarely used; more common in research or conservation due to slow germination

Typical Issues

• Spider mites and thrip
• Root rot in poorly ventilated or overwatered conditions

Treatment Recommendations

• Treat pests with neem oil or insecticidal soap

• Improve airflow and drainage; reduce watering

• Use fungicides if root rot is advanced

• Often featured in specialty aroid collections for its understated elegance

• Compact size makes it ideal for indoor growers with limited space

• Prized for its velvety foliage and manageable growth habit

• A great addition to curated collections focused on unique or rare Anthuriums

Wild Population Status

• Not officially listed, but habitat loss in Ecuador poses a threat

Market Availability

• Moderately rare in cultivation

• Becoming more available through specialty nurseries and collectors