Anthurium nakamurae Matuda

• Genus: Anthurium
• Botanical Background: Described by Japanese-Mexican botanist Eizi Matuda, who made significant contributions to the taxonomy of Mexican flora, especially in the Sierra Madre de Chiapas and Oaxaca.

• Geographical Range: Endemic to southern Mexico
• Environment: Grows in montane rainforests with high humidity and filtered light. Often found growing terrestrially or on moss-covered rocks in shaded forest understories.

Leaves

• Very narrow, elongate, and pendant, often exceeding 40 cm in length while being only 2–4 cm wide
• Deep green, with a smooth surface and prominent midrib

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Inflorescence consists of a slender, pale spadix and a narrow, often greenish spathe
• Subtle and blends into the foliage
• Pollinated by small insects like fungus gnats

Growth Habit

• Terrestrial or lithophytic, with a short stem and spreading, fine roots
• Tends to form loose clumps along forest floors or mossy outcrops

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light
• Direct sunlight should be avoided to prevent leaf damage

Watering & Humidity

• Requires consistent moisture and high humidity (above 70%)
• Keep the substrate evenly moist but not waterlogged

Soil & Potting Mix

• Airy mix such as orchid bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite is ideal
• Soil should drain well while retaining enough moisture for its thin roots

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Best grown between 18–26°C (64–79°F)
• Feed monthly during the growing season with a diluted, balanced fertilizer

Division

• Propagated by division of mature clumps or by stem cuttings with nodes and aerial roots
• Maintain high humidity during propagation

Seeds

• Propagation is possible, though slow
• Fresh seeds should be kept in a warm, moist environment to germinate

Typical Issues

• Spider mites, scale insects, or mealybugs
• Low airflow or overly wet conditions may lead to fungal issues or root rot

Treatment Recommendations

• Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to treat infestations
• Ensure adequate ventilation and avoid waterlogging the roots

• Named in honor of a Japanese-Mexican collector
• Exemplifies the rich biodiversity of Mexico’s montane forests and remains relatively obscure outside of botanical circles

• Elegant, cascading leaves and slender profile
• An appealing specimen for collectors of rare aroids and for display in hanging or elevated planters

Wild Population Status

• Not formally assessed
• Limited range, it may be vulnerable to habitat loss and environmental changes

Market Availability

• Rare in cultivation
• Found through specialist nurseries or botanical collections. It is not commonly available in mainstream horticulture