• Genus: Anthurium
• Botanical Background: Described by renowned botanist Thomas B. Croat, this species has contributed to the understanding of Anthurium diversity. Croat’s extensive work on Araceae has provided the framework for classifying many of these intriguing plants.

• Geographical Range: Indigenous to the Andean regions, where it naturally occurs in tropical montane and cloud forests.
• Environment: Thrives in humid, shaded understories with well-draining, organic-rich soils. Favors environments with consistent moisture and moderate temperatures, reflective of its cloud forest origins.

Leaves

• Typically heart-shaped, with a glossy dark green surface
• Smooth texture
• Subtle venation

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Produces a modest spathe that often displays hues of green with hints of reddish tones
• Slender spadix supports the flower cluster, which is not known for a strong scent but is intriguing to pollinators

Growth Habit

• Exhibiting an epiphytic tendency, can also be found growing terrestrially
• Develops a creeping rhizome that aids in its spread within its natural habitat

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light

Watering & Humidity

• Keep the growing medium consistently moist without waterlogging
• High humidity is essential, making it suitable for indoor environments with proper humidity control

Soil & Potting Mix

• A loose, well-draining mix rich in organic matter is ideal
• A potting medium designed for epiphytic plants ensures adequate aeration around the roots

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Maintain temperatures between 65°F and 80°F
• Balanced, diluted fertilizer applied during the growing season supports healthy development without overfeeding

Division

• Division of rhizomes
• Each division should include a portion of the root system and a visible growth node to ensure successful establishment.

Stem Cuttings (if applicable)

• Not Applicable

Seeds

• Feasible but challenging
• Require specific conditions to germinate, often resulting in lower success rates compared to vegetative methods

Typical Issues

• Can be vulnerable to pests like mealybugs and spider mites
• Root rot may develop if the soil is excessively wet

Treatment Recommendations

• Employ organic insecticidal soaps to manage pest infestations and adjust watering routines to mitigate the risk of fungal infections
• Maintaining good air circulation also helps prevent disease

• Celebrated not only for its visual appeal but also for its role in representing the rich biodiversity of Andean cloud forests
• Has attracted interest from both botanical researchers and avid collectors

• Prized for its refined leaf structure and unique inflorescence
• A standout specimen in curated plant collections

Wild Population Status

• Due to its specialized habitat and the ongoing threat of habitat loss in the Andean region, A. cardenasii is considered rare in the wild, prompting interest in conservation efforts

Market Availability

• Not commonly available on the mainstream market
• Typically found through specialized collectors and niche horticultural sources