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Anthurium clewellii Croat & O.Ortiz

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Anthurium clewellii Croat & O. Ortiz
  • Common Name: Common names are not widely established

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to tropical rainforests
  • Features: Distinguished by its bold leaf structure and a notable inflorescence that sets it apart from other Anthuriums

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Anthurium
  • Botanical Background: Described by prominent aroid experts Croat and O. Ortiz, Anthurium clewellii has contributed to ongoing botanical research and taxonomic revisions in the study of tropical aroids.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Native to tropical regions where it typically inhabits lowland to mid-elevation rainforests.
  • Environment: Thrives in high-humidity environments with dappled light, favoring well-draining, organic-rich soils that mimic the forest floor or epiphytic settings on tree trunks.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Boasts large, heart-shaped
  • Leathery texture and a deep green hue
  • Subtle patterns or variegation may appear

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Features a brightly colored spathe paired with a slender spadix
  • The display is visually appealing and serves to attract specialized pollinators, although it is generally not noted for a strong scent

Growth Habit

  • Can adopt an epiphytic or terrestrial lifestyle
  • It forms clumps via an established rhizome system, a trait common among many Anthurium species

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Best suited to bright, indirect light
  • Direct sunlight should be avoided to prevent leaf burn

Watering & Humidity

  • Regular watering is essential to maintain evenly moist soil
  • High humidity is beneficial
  • Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot

Soil & Potting Mix

  • A loose, well-draining potting mix enriched with organic matter such as peat combined with perlite is ideal
  • Container with drainage holes are recommended

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Between 65°F and 80°F
  • Balanced liquid fertilizer applied at regular intervals supports healthy growth

Propagation Methods

Division and Stem Cuttings

  • Dividing the existing clumps
  • Careful separation of the rhizomes will yield new plants

Seeds

  • Less common due to variable viability and longer germination times

        Common Pests & Diseases

        Typical Issues

        • Spider mites and mealybugs
        • Root rot can occur if overwatered

        Treatment Recommendations

        • For pest control, insecticidal soap or neem oil is effective against most common pests
        • To prevent root rot, ensure the potting mix is well-draining and avoid standing water

        Notable Traits & Uses

        • Collectors value this species for its rarity and distinctive floral display, which adds an element of intrigue to any aroid collection
        • Unusual leaf shape and striking inflorescence
        • Coveted ornamental plant among tropical plant enthusiasts

        Conservation & Availability

        Wild Population Status

        • While detailed conservation assessments are limited, habitat loss in tropical regions may pose a risk to its wild populations

        Market Availability

        • Relatively rare in the horticultural trade
        • Appealing primarily to dedicated aroid collectors and enthusiasts

        References & Resources

        Further Reading

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