Anthurium pageanum Croat

• Genus: Anthurium
• Botanical Background: Described by Thomas B. Croat in 1986 (Monographs in Systematic Botany of the Missouri Botanical Garden 14: 146), the species epithet honors Dr. Richard Page of the Cheekwood Botanical Garden for his contributions of live material for study.

• Geographical Range: Native to humid forests from Costa Rica into western Panama, primarily along the Continental Divide.
• Environment: Thrives as an epiphyte on tree trunks and branches in shaded understories with high humidity, consistent moisture, and well‑draining organic substrates.

Leaves

• Erect‑spreading on triangular petioles (2.5–20 cm long)
• Bearing elongated, non‑cordate, strap‑like blades that are moderately coriaceous and glandular‑punctate on at least one surface

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Produces a slender, cylindrical spadix subtended by a modest spathe held at right angle
• Flowers are small and perfect, attracting small insects for pollination

Growth Habit

• An epiphytic subshrub with slender stems, short internodes, adventitious roots, and a creeping rhizome

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light

• Avoid direct sun to prevent leaf scorch

Watering & Humidity

• Allow media to dry slightly between thorough waterings

• Maintain high humidity (above 60 %)

Soil & Potting Mix

• Use a well‑draining mix high in organic matter (e.g., orchid bark, peat, perlite)

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Ideal range 16–22 °C (61–72 °F)

• Apply a balanced, water‑soluble fertilizer monthly at ~50 ppm N

Division and Cuttings

• Separate basal shoots or rhizome segments with at least two nodes
• Treat with auxin if desired
• Expect new shoots in ~20–30 days

Seeds

• Fruits bear 2–5 seeds
• Germination typically occurs in 10–40 days under warm (25 °C), moist, sterile conditions
• Seedlings flower in 3–4 years

Typical Issues

• Spider mites, mealybugs, scale, aphids, thrips
• Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
• Ensure adequate light to reduce stress

Treatment Recommendations

• Insecticidal soap or neem oil applications and introduce predatory mites for insects pests
• Improve drainage and reduce watering frequency for root rot
• Copper‑based sprays for bacterial blight (Xanthomonas)
• Fungicides (e.g., mefenoxam) or organic drenches (e.g., hydrogen peroxide) for fungal diseases

• Named for Dr. Richard Page
• Plays an ecological role as an epiphyte providing microhabitats in rainforest canopies

• Prized by collectors for its delicate, strap‑like foliage
• Rarely seen in general trade and sought by specialty aroid nurseries

Wild Population Status

• Not assessed by IUCN
• Habitat loss from deforestation could pose future risks

Market Availability

• Considered rare

• Available occasionally through specialty aroid societies and botanical gardens