Menu
Log in
site_logo

Anthurium mourae Engl.

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Anthurium mourae Engl.
  • Common Name: No common names

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Endemic to southeastern Brazil
  • Features: Ovate to lance-shaped leaves and preference for moist, shaded forest environments

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Anthurium
  • Botanical Background: First described by the renowned German botanist Adolf Engler, a major figure in plant taxonomy who contributed extensively to early classification of Araceae species.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Native to the Atlantic Forest region of southeastern Brazil
  • Environment: Found in humid, tropical forest understories. It prefers shaded areas with consistent moisture, growing in leaf litter or humus-rich soil on the forest floor.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Lanceolate to elliptic, medium to dark green, and have a leathery texture
  • Venation is subtle but well-defined, and the leaf blade may be gently arching

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Inflorescence consists of a slender, upright spadix with a pale green to creamy spathe
  • Pollinated by small beetles or flies, like many other Anthurium species

Growth Habit

  • Terrestrial species with a compact form
  • Emerges from a short stem and develops a modest root system
  • Often in loose organic soil or forest debris

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Bright, indirect  light
  • Full sun should be avoided to prevent leaf scorch

Watering & Humidity

  • Requires moderate to high humidity and evenly moist soil
  • Water regularly but avoid soggy conditions

Soil & Potting Mix

  • Thrives in a well-draining, organic-rich mix
  • Blend of sphagnum moss, orchid bark, and perlite is suitable in containers

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Ideal temperature range is 20–28°C (68–82°F)
  • Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season

Propagation Methods

Division

  • Propagate through division of basal shoots or stem cuttings with visible roots
  • Maintain high humidity during rooting for best results


Seeds

  • Propagation is possible but slow and infrequently used
  • Require warmth and humidity to germinate

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Spider mites, mealybugs, or scale insects
  • Root rot may occur if drainage is poor

Treatment Recommendations

  • Treat pests with insecticidal soap or neem oil
  • Improve air circulation and reduce watering if fungal issues appear

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Unique diversity of Brazil’s Atlantic
  • One of the most ecologically rich but threatened biomes in the world
  • Valued for its clean, architectural foliage and modest size
  • Suitable for terrariums or indoor aroid collections

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • Not formally assessed by the IUCN
  • Biome under pressure from deforestation, making it potentially vulnerable

Market Availability

  • Rare in cultivation
  • Found only through specialty collectors or botanical institutions

References & Resources

Further Reading

LOVE AROIDS?

Immerse yourself in aroid bliss by joining our family of thousands of ariod enthusiasts worldwide today.

You’ll love the benefits and incredible community.

Shop IAS Merch

Shop our merch store! The 2025 Limited Edition items, designed by Andrew Blaurock, are available for a limited time.

Frank Luca Anthurium Nov
DF Unisex Hoodie

$38.00

'Stripey' Unisex Classic
Tee

$25.00

'Stripey' Unisex V-Neck
T-Shirt

$25.00

'Stripey' Unisex T-shirt

$25.00

Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software
Document