Anthurium rotundatum Croat & Carlsen

• Genus: Anthurium
• Botanical Background: Described in Novon in 2004 by Croat & Carlsen. Section Semaeophyllium was originally defined by Schott and later refined in a taxonomic revision by Carlsen & Croat (2007).

• Geographical Range: Native to low‑elevation tropical rainforests (15–280 m a.s.l.) on both Atlantic and Pacific slopes from southern Costa Rica through Panama into the northern tip of Colombia.
• Environment: Climbing epiphyte on tree trunks where humidity is high, under the canopy of wet, premontane and lowland rainforests.

Leaves

• Evergreen, sub coriaceous and trilobed blades
• Semigloss above and pale green glossy below
• Upper surface is densely raphide‑covered
• Lobes are broadly rounded at the tips

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Spathe pale green, lanceolate and reflexed
• Spadix bright yellow and tapered

Growth Habit

• Climbing epiphyte
• With internodes up to 2 cm long and persistent cataphyll fibers
• Attaches to hosts by fine roots along the stem

Light Requirements

• Bright filtered light
• Avoid direct sun  

Watering & Humidity

• Keep soil evenly moist
• Maintain humidity above 60%

Soil & Potting Mix

• A loose, well‑draining mix (orchid bark, perlite, peat or sphagnum)

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Temperatures range 18–27 °C

• Avoid cold drafts

• Fertilize monthly during active growth with a balanced, diluted fertilizer

Division and Stem Cuttings

• Divide clumps at the rhizome
• Take stem cuttings with 1–2 nodes
• Toot in moist mix in bright, indirect light

Seeds

• Fresh seeds germinate in warm, humid conditions
• Sow on surface of moist mix and cover for humidity

Typical Issues

• Spider mites, mealybugs and scale

Treatment Recommendations

• Neem oil or insecticidal soap
• Improving drainage
• Removing affected roots

• True trilobed leaves that appear soon after unfurling

• Valued by collectors for its distinctive foliage shape and size
• Adds architectural interest in terrariums or mounted displays

Wild Population Status

• Not evaluated by the IUCN
• Predicted not threatened according to Angiosperm Extinction Risk Predictions (2024)

Market Availability

• Rare in general trade
• Available through specialist aroid nurseries and plant societies