Anthurium pariense G.S.Bunting

• Genus: Anthurium
• Botanical Background: Described by George Sydney Bunting in 1975 (Acta Botanica Venezuelica 10: 276), during his revision of Venezuelan aroids.

• Geographical Range: Endemic to northern Venezuela’s Península de Paria, with type collections from Cerro El Humo at 700–800 m elevation.
• Environment: Grows as an epiphyte in wet tropical cloud forests, favoring high humidity, diffuse light, and well‑drained bark or moss substrates.

Leaves

• Spirally arranged, coriaceous
• Elliptic‑lanceolate blades with entire margins and acuminate apex

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• A small green spathe (≈3–5 cm) subtending a slender green spadix
• Likely pollinated by small Diptera attracted to subtle floral odors

Growth Habit

• Epiphytic subshrub with a short, creeping rhizome
• Produces adventitious roots to anchor on host trees

Light Requirements

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

Watering & Humidity

• Maintain evenly moist media without waterlogging
• Aim for 60–80 % relative humidity

Soil & Potting Mix

• A chunky, free‑draining mix of orchid bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite in a pot with good drainage

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Keep between 18–26 °C
• Feed monthly during growth with a balanced, dilute fertilizer

Division & Cuttings

• Divide the rhizome into sections each bearing at least one growth point
• Pot immediately in suitable mix

Seeds

• Best sown fresh on moist sphagnum under warm, humid conditions

• Expect germination in 4–8 weeks

Typical Issues

• Mealybugs, spider mites
• Root rot from poor drainage

Treatment Recommendations

• Insecticidal soap or horticultural oil for pests
• Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent fungal issues

• Named for the Paria Peninsula (Latin pariense), underscoring its restricted native range

• Sought by aroid collectors for its rarity and elegantly understated foliage

Wild Population Status

• Limited distribution suggests potential vulnerability

Market Availability

• Extremely rare in cultivation
• Occasionally found through specialist aroid nurseries and seed exchanges