Anthurium pastasanum Diels

• Genus: Anthurium
• Botanical Background: First described by botanist Friedrich Ludwig Emil Diels in 1937 (Biblioth. Bot. 29(Heft 116): 62). Sectional placement has remained stable since Croat’s monographic treatments of Anthurium.

• Geographical Range: Known only from a single documented population in Pastaza province, Ecuador, at approximately 395 m elevation along the Río Puni, east of Capirona.
• Environment: Thrives in the shaded understory of lowland Amazonian rainforest, where humidity is consistently high and temperatures moderate.

Leaves

• Lanceolate to oblanceolate, coriaceous, glossy dark green
• Entire margins and prominent parallel venation
• New leaves emerge in two opposite spirals

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Spathe is green and reflexed
• Spadix cylindrical, bearing tightly packed flowers
• Pollination likely involves small flies or beetles

Growth Habit

• Terrestrial, forming a basal rosette from a short, thick rhizome
• Roots densely packed at the rosette base, aiding in debris and water capture

Light Requirements

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

Watering & Humidity

• Keep substrate evenly moist but not waterlogged
• High humidity (>60%) encourages vigorous growth

Soil & Potting Mix

• A chunky, well‑draining aroid mix (orchid bark, perlite, leaf mold) to mimic natural leaf‑litter substrate

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Ideal range 18–25 °C, avoid temperatures below 15 °C
• Feed monthly during active growth with a balanced, water‑soluble fertilizer

Division & Cuttings

• Best propagated by dividing offsets at the rhizome, ensuring each division has several roots and leaves

Seeds

• Production in cultivation is rare
• Fresh seeds require warm, humid conditions and sterile media for reliable germination

Typical Issues

• Mealybugs, spider mites
• Root rot from overwatering or poor drainage
  

Treatment Recommendations

• Wipe leaves with insecticidal soap or apply neem oil
• Remove affected roots, repot in fresh mix, and adjust watering practices

• The species epithet “pastazanum” honors Pastaza province, its only known locality
• Bird’s‑nest habit plays an ecological role in trapping organic debris and moisture

• Prized for its rare, rosette‑forming habit and elegant lanceolate foliage
• Suited to terrarium or vivarium display where humidity can be maintained
  

Wild Population Status

• Known from a single population; conservation status likely vulnerable, though not yet formally assessed

Market Availability

• Rare in trade
• Occasionally offered by specialty growers