Anthurium parasiticum (Vell.) Stellfeld

• Genus: Anthurium
• Botanical Background: Originally described as Pothos parasiticus by José Mariano da Conceição Vellozo, the species was transferred to Anthurium by W. Stellfeld in 1950 (published in Arquivos do Museu Paraense 8: 175)

• Geographical Range: Occurs naturally as an epiphyte in the Atlantic Forest biome of southeastern Brazil, particularly in the states of Espírito Santo and Rio de Janeiro.
• Environment: Thrives in humid, shaded canopy conditions with consistent moisture, attaching to host trees in well‑drained, organic‑rich pockets of bark or moss.

Leaves

• Simple, alternately arranged
• Cordate to ovate with entire margins
• Glossy, coriaceous texture
• Prominent acrodromous venation

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Erect spadix, 5–10 cm long, bearing tiny bisexual flowers
• Subtended by a narrow, pale-green spathe that is persistent and held at right angles to the spadix

Growth Habit

• Epiphytic, forming a short creeping rhizome with adventitious aerial roots
• No true tubers

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light
• Avoid direct sun to prevent leaf scorch

Watering & Humidity

• Keep medium evenly moist but not waterlogged
• Maintain high humidity (60–80 %) to mimic understory conditions

Soil & Potting Mix

• A well‑draining, airy mix (e.g., orchid bark with sphagnum moss or perlite)
• Pots must have drainage holes

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Ideal range 18–25 °C
• Feed monthly during active growth with a balanced, diluted fertilizer

Division & Cuttings

• Best by rhizome division
• Separate sections with at least two leaves and aerial roots
• Replant in fresh mix

Seeds

• Possible but slow
• Fresh seeds germinate in warm (25–28 °C), humid conditions over several weeks

Typical Issues

• Mealybugs, spider mites, look for fine webbing or cottony masses
• Root rot from poor drainage

Treatment Recommendations

• Organic insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays
• Chemical, systemic insecticides for severe infestations
• Repot in fresh medium and trim affected roots

• It contributes to canopy nutrient cycling and provides microhabitats for invertebrates

• Collectors prize it for its manageable size, glossy foliage, and rarity in cultivation

Wild Population Status

• Likely data deficient due to limited range and specialized habitat

Market Availability

• Rare in general trade
• Occasionally offered by specialist nurseries and aroid collectors