Anthurium polyschistum R.E.Schult. & Idrobo

• Genus: Anthurium
• Botanical Background: Described by Robert E. Schultes and José Idrobo in 1959 in Botanical Museum Leaflets (Harvard University), the species was based on collections from Colombian and Ecuadorian rainforests.

• Geographical Range: Native to Bolivia, Colombia and Ecuador, occurring from lowland Amazonia to Andean slopes.
• Environment: Prefers consistently moist, well‑aerated substrates under diffuse canopy light.

Leaves

• Juvenile foliage is entire and cordate
• Adult leaves become palmatisect, forming five to nine slender lobes
• Surfaces are slightly glossy with a bluish‑green tint; undersides are pale

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Single inflorescences arise on erect peduncles
• Spathe is cream to pale green, enclosing a cylindrical spadix of similar color
• Specific scents are not documented, typically attract small beetles and flies

Growth Habit

• Epiphytic subshrub with a creeping rhizome
• Climbs host trees via adventitious roots and may form loose colonies

Light Requirements

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

Watering & Humidity

• Keep media evenly moist but not waterlogged
• Water once weekly during active growth; reduce frequency in cooler months
• Maintain humidity above 70%

Soil & Potting Mix

• Use a chunky, free‑draining epiphyte blend of bark chips, perlite and peat or coconut coir
• Ensure good drainage and repot every 2–3 years

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Optimal range is 18–28 °C.
• Balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season

Division and Cuttings

• Divide clumps by cutting rhizome sections with at least one growing point
• Plant in the same epiphyte mix and keep moist to encourage rooting

Seeds

• Fresh seeds can be sown on sterile fine substrate under high humidity
• Germination is slow, taking 2–3 months, and offspring may vary

Typical Issues

• Spider mites, mealybugs and scale
• Root rot can result from overly dense media or poor drainage

Treatment Recommendations

• Ese insecticidal soap or neem oil
• Repot into fresh, well‑draining mix
• Apply a broad‑spectrum fungicide

• Exhibits dramatic heteroblastic development
• Simple juvenile leaves transform into highly dissected adult foliage

• Sculptural, hand‑like leaves and climbing habit make it a standout specimen for tropical and aroid collections

Wild Population Status

• Habitat loss from deforestation in its native range could pose future risks

Market Availability

• Moderately rare in trade
• Available primarily through specialist nurseries and aroid enthusiast networks