Anthurium myosuroides (Kunth) Schott

• Genus: Anthurium
• Botanical Background: Originally described by Kunth and later assigned to Anthurium by Heinrich Wilhelm Schott, a key 19th-century botanist specializing in Araceae taxonomy.

• Geographical Range: Found across a broad swath of northern and western South America
• Environment: Typically grows epiphytically on trees in humid, shaded forest canopies or occasionally terrestrially in rich, moist soils. It prefers warm, moist, and stable environments.

Leaves

• Narrow, linear to lanceolate leaves that resemble blades of grass
• medium to dark green, smooth, and flexible, often measuring 10–30 cm in length but only a few millimeters wide

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Spadix is thin and tail-like, typically cream or pale yellow, with a subtle, narrow spathe
• Flowers are minute and tightly packed, and the species is likely pollinated by small insects such as gnats or beetles

Growth Habit

• Primarily epiphytic, occasionally terrestrial
• Slender stem and delicate root system suited to mossy bark or loose substrate

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light
• Avoid strong direct sunlight, which can dehydrate the thin foliage

Watering & Humidity

• Requires regular watering to keep the substrate evenly moist
• High humidity (above 70%) is essential for healthy foliage and root growth

Soil & Potting Mix

• Ideal in a loose, epiphytic mix such as sphagnum moss combined with orchid bark and perlite
• Must be well-draining but moisture-retentive

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Thrives in temperatures between 18–26°C (64–79°F)
• Feed every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a diluted, balanced fertilizer

Division

• Propagated via division of basal shoots or stem cuttings with roots
• Rooting is relatively easy under high humidity

Seeds

• Viable seeds may be produced in cultivated conditions but are rare
• Germination requires warmth and constant moisture

Typical Issues

• Spider mites and aphids
• Overwatering or poor airflow can result in fungal root issue

Treatment Recommendations

• Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for pests
• Ensure airy potting mix and avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot

• Name "myosuroides" refers to its mouse-tail-like spadix
• Grass-like leaves make it easily distinguishable from broader-leaved Anthurium species.

• Favored by collectors for its minimalist aesthetic and graceful form
• Epiphytic nature makes it suitable for mounting or for growing in terrarium-style displays

Wild Population Status

• Not assessed by IUCN
• Habitat loss from deforestation could pose a future threat in parts of its native range

Market Availability

• Occasionally available through specialty growers or rare plant nurseries
• Relatively uncommon in mainstream horticulture