Anthurium gladysmartineziae Croat

• Genus: Anthurium
• Botanical Background: Described as a new species by Thomas B. Croat, a leading aroid taxonomist, in a 2022 revision of sect. Porphyrochitonium

• Geographical Range: Known only from the type locality in Municipio Frontino, Antioquia: 15 km west of Nutibara along the road to Murrí, Colombia
• Environment: Grows at the margin of montane primary forest, in shaded understory with consistently high humidity and well‑drained soils.

Leaves

• Simple, strap‑like blades up to ~20 cm long
• Entire margins, chartaceous texture, glabrous and glandular‑punctate on one or both surfaces

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Slender spadix subtended by a tubular greenish spathe
• Flowers small and perfect, arranged in close spirals
• Likely pollinated by small dipterans

Growth Habit

• Hemiepiphytic to terrestrial herb with short rhizome
• Produces pendent shoots bearing leaves and inflorescences

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light
• Avoid direct sun to prevent leaf scorch

Watering & Humidity

• Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
• High ambient humidity preferred (≥60 %)

Soil & Potting Mix

• A well‑draining, peaty mix enriched with orchid bark or perlite
• Layer of pot shards at the bottom improves drainage

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Ideal range 18–24 °C (65–75 °F)
• A balanced, water‑soluble fertilizer monthly during the growing season

Division & Cuttings

• Divide clumps at the rhizome; stem cuttings with at least one node root readily in moist medium

Seeds

• Viable but seldom used; require warm (22–26 °C)
• Humid conditions and light to germinate over several weeks

Typical Issues

• Mealybugs, aphids, soft scale—inspect foliage regularly
• Root rot from overwatering

Treatment Recommendations

• Insecticidal soap or horticultural oil for pests
• Neem oil sprays; allow soil surface to dry slightly to deter root pathogens

• Named in honor of Gladys Martinez, a Colombian botanist who contributed to local plant studies
• Valued by collectors for its elegant, strap‑like foliage and rarity

• Adds architectural interest to shaded terrariums or aroid collections

Wild Population Status

• Known only from a single locality; not yet assessed by the IUCN

Market Availability

• Extremely rare in cultivation
• Occasionally offered by specialist aroid nurseries and private collectors