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Anthurium multisulcatum Engl.

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Anthurium multisulcatum Engl.
  • Common Name: No widely recognized common names

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to Ecuador
  • Features: Numerous parallel grooves or sulcations, giving it a striking sculptural appearance

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Anthurium
  • Botanical Background: Described by Adolf Engler, a pioneering botanist in Araceae taxonomy, who named the species for its distinctive multi-grooved leaf surface (“multisulcatum” meaning “many grooves”).

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Endemic to Ecuador
  • Environment: Thrives in moist, shaded environments typical of lower montane or pre-montane cloud forests. Prefers organic-rich soils and consistent humidity.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Oblong to lanceolate, leathery, and prominently sulcate with parallel grooves running lengthwise across the blade
  • Dark green and glossy

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Spadix is slender and pale to cream in color, accompanied by a narrow, greenish spathe
  • Likely beetle or fly-pollinated

Growth Habit

  • Terrestrial or occasionally epiphytic plant, forming tight clumps
  • Grows from a short stem and is supported by a fibrous root system

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Bright, indirect light
  • Direct sun should be avoided to prevent leaf burn

Watering & Humidity

  • Requires consistently moist conditions and high humidity (above 70%)
  • Allow the top layer of soil to slightly dry between waterings

Soil & Potting Mix

  • Use a well-draining, chunky mix containing orchid bark, peat, and perlite or pumice
  • Soil should retain moisture without becoming compacted

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Ideal temperatures range from 18–26°C (64–79°F)
  • Fertilize every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer

Propagation Methods

Division

  • Propagated by dividing clumps or taking stem cuttings with visible nodes and aerial roots
  • Maintain high humidity for rooting success


Seeds

  • Propagation is rarely used
  • Should be sown in moist sphagnum and kept in warm, humid conditions for germination

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs, especially in dry environments
  • Overwatering can lead to root rot

Treatment Recommendations

  • Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to treat infestations
  • Ensure proper airflow and drainage to reduce the risk of fungal infections

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Nname “multisulcatum” highlights its uniquely grooved leaves
  • Distinguishable among other Anthurium type
  • Highly sought after by collectors for its deeply textured foliage
  • Ideal for display in botanical collections or high-humidity indoor settings

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • Not formally evaluated by the IUCN
  • Restricted native range in Ecuador and habitat pressures may make it susceptible to decline

Market Availability

  • Rare in cultivation
  • Found in aroid specialty collections or through botanical institutions but not widely offered commercially

References & Resources

Further Reading

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