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Anthurium manuanum Croat

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Anthurium manuanum Croat
  • Common Name: Does not have widely recognized common name

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to the tropical regions of Central and South America
  • Features: Elegant, dark green, and leathery leaves

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Anthurium
  • Botanical Background: Named by botanist Thomas B. Croat, A. manuanum was identified in the early 1990s during field studies in the tropical rainforests of Panama.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Native to Panama and parts of Costa Rica, this species thrives in lowland rainforests and can also be found in montane areas.
  • Environment: Humid conditions, rich, well-drained soils, and warm temperatures typical of tropical climates; typically found at altitudes ranging from 300 to 800 meters.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Broad, dark green, and glossy
  • Leathery texture and prominent venation
  • Heart-shaped with a long, pointed tip

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Spathe is a typical white to pale green color, while the spadix is yellow
  • Not known for a strong scent

Growth Habit

  • Primarily an epiphyte
  • Can also be terrestrial
  • Grows from a rhizome and does not typically climb

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Bright, indirect
  • Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn

Watering & Humidity

  • Regular watering
  • Soil moist but not waterlogged
  • High humidity (50-70%) 

Soil & Potting Mix

  • A well-draining, rich organic mix is ideal, with additional perlite or orchid bark 
  • Pots should have drainage holes

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Temperatures between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)

  • Feed monthly during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer

Propagation Methods

Division and Stem Cuttings

  • Most common method is division
  • Plant’s rhizome is carefully separated into new plants
  • Stem cuttings with a node can also be rooted in water

Seeds

  • Propagation through seeds is rarely done, as it requires precise conditions and long growth periods

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids 
  • Root rot

Treatment Recommendations

  • Insecticidal soap or neem oil

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
  • Remove decaying roots and repotting them in fresh, sterile soil

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Appreciated for its robust beauty and low-maintenance nature
  • Striking glossy foliage
  • Often sought after by collectors and is used in tropical landscape designs

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • Not listed as endangered
  • Habitat destruction in its native areas poses a potential threat to its population

Market Availability

  • Occasionally found in specialty plant nurseries
  • Less common in the general market compared to more popular Anthurium species

References & Resources

Further Reading

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