Anthurium pacificum (Croat & Grayum) Vannini & Croat

• Genus: Anthurium
• Botanical Background: Described as Anthurium clidemioides subsp. pacificum by Croat & Grayum in 1997 and elevated to species rank by Vannini & Croat in 2022.

• Geographical Range: Native to wet tropical forests on both Pacific and Caribbean slopes of Costa Rica, extending into northwestern Panama.
• Environment: Thrives as an epiphytic climber in humid, wet tropical biomes at elevations of roughly 200–600 m, often on mature forest trees where humidity exceeds 70 percent.

Leaves

• Deltoid to ovoid, coriaceous blades reaching 27 cm in nature (23 cm in cultivation)
• A distinctive subvelvety, satin-like upper surface
• Less pronounced bullation than related taxa

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Short-pedunculate inflorescences bearing a green lanceolate spathe
• Tapered spadix that emerges early, displaying violet-colored flowers

Growth Habit

• Appressed climbing epiphyte with elongated internodes (4–7 cm long, 2–3 mm diameter) slender intermodal roots
• Lacks a prominent rhizome but attaches closely to host surfaces

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light

• Avoid direct sun which can scorch the leaves

Watering & Humidity

• Water thoroughly when the top 2 cm of the mix dries
• Maintain humidity above 60 percent to mimic its native understory habitat

Soil & Potting Mix

• Use a chunky, well‑draining medium combining orchid bark, peat, and perlite to ensure aeration and moisture retention
  

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Ideal range 16–24 °C

• Apply a balanced, dilute fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season

Division and Cuttings

• Most commonly propagated vegetatively via stem cuttings or division of clustered growth

• Ensure each segment has at least one node and some roots

Seeds

• Possible but uncommon
• Sow fresh seeds in a sterile, moist medium at around 25 °C under high humidity, expecting germination in several weeks

Typical Issues

• Spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, thrips, and fungus gnats
• Root rots by Rhizoctonia, Pythium, and Phytophthora can occur in overly wet media

Treatment Recommendations

• Use insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays for foliage pests
• Apply horticultural oil to control mites
• For root rot, trim affected roots, repot in fresh, well‑draining mix, and adjust watering

• Ensure good air circulation, avoiding waterlogging, and inspecting plants regularly

  
  

• Despite its popularity among collectors, A. pacificum is rare in the wild with disjunct populations and spotty distribution across its range

• Prized for its large, velvety‑sheened leaves and compact climbing habit
• Standout in terraria and specialist collections

Wild Population Status

• Populations are localized and disjunct, with no large continuous stands reported
• Conservation status has not been formally assessed but rarity in nature suggests potential vulnerability

Market Availability

• Cultivated by specialty nurseries and aroid enthusiasts
• Not widely available in mainstream trade and often commands premium prices