Anthurium chuchubiense Croat

• Genus: Anthurium
• Botanical Background: Described by renowned botanist Thomas B. Croat in 1985, named after the Chuchubí River region in Colombia. 

• Geographical Range: Native to the Chocó Department in western Colombia. 
• Environment: Naturally grows in a humid environment with temperatures between 18°C and 22°C and favors well-drained, rich, organic soils and receives filtered light under the canopy of tropical trees.

Leaves

• Large, heart-shaped, with pronounced veins
• Glossy, dark green texture
• Leaf margin can sometimes show a slight rippling effect

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Spathe is white to pale green, contrasting with the spadix, which is a dark purple or almost black
• Flower structure is primarily pollinated by insects in its natural habitat

Growth Habit

• Typically terrestrial but can occasionally be found growing as an epiphyte in its native region
• Has a rhizomatic growth habit, producing new shoots from the base of the plant

Light Requirements

• Prefers bright, indirect light
• Too much direct sunlight can scorch its leaves

Watering & Humidity

• Requires consistently moist soil but well-drained
• Humidity level above 60% is ideal to replicate its native high-altitude climate

Soil & Potting Mix

• Best suited for a loose, well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
• A mix of peat, perlite, and pine bark is recommended

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Ideal temperatures range from 18°C to 22°C
• Balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season

Division

• Division of rhizomes is the most effective way to propagate this species
• Take care to include a portion of the rhizome when separating plants
  

Seeds

• Rarely done due to low germination rates and the slow growth of seedlings

Typical Issues

• Mealybugs and aphids
• Root rot can occur in overwatered conditions

Treatment Recommendations

• Use insecticidal soap or neem oil
• Remove affected roots and ensure the plant is not kept in stagnant water
• Consider repotting in a fresh, well-drained mix
  

• Highly sought after by collectors due to its unique leaf patterns and relative rarity in cultivation
• Prized for its distinctive, ornamental foliage

• A standout specimen for a collection of rare tropical plants

Wild Population Status

• Not currently listed as endangered, but its natural habitat is increasingly threatened by deforestation and agricultural expansion in Colombia

Market Availability

• Relatively rare in cultivation and can be difficult to find in nurseries
• Highly valued in the collector's market