Anthurium rubrifructum Croat

• Genus: Anthurium
• Botanical Background: Described by Thomas B. Croat in his 1986 monograph on Central American Anthurium (Monographs in Systematic Botany from the Missouri Botanical Garden), A. rubrifructum is one of several species he recognized from the Darien region.

• Geographical Range: Locality atop Cerro Pirre, Darien Province, Panama; potential occurrence in adjacent Colombia.
• Environment: Lower montane wet forest at about 1 200 m elevation; consistently high humidity and diffused light under closed canopy.

Leaves

• Sharp margins
• Blades triangular
• Subcoriaceous when dry
• Deeply lobed at base

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Spathe narrowly lanceolate and pale green
• Spadix small and often concealed at anthesis

Growth Habit

• Scandent epiphytic subshrub lacking tubers
• Thin cataphylls weather to fibers

Light Requirements

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

Watering & Humidity

• Allow top layer of medium to dry slightly between waterings
• Humidity above 60 %
• Mist regularly or use a humidity tray

Soil & Potting Mix

• A coarse, well‑draining mix (e.g., equal parts orchid bark and houseplant potting medium, with added perlite or charcoal)

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Temperatures range 18–27 °C (65–80 °F)

• Feed monthly during active growth with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer

Division and Stem Cuttings

• Divide mature clumps
• Stem cuttings just below aerial roots
• Pot singly in warm, humid condition

Seeds

• Require warm, moist, well‑lit conditions
• May take several months and flowering can take multiple years

Typical Issues

• Thrips, spider mites, fungus gnats, mealybugs, aphids, and scale

Treatment Recommendations

• Neem oil or insecticidal soap
• Allow medium to dry slightly before watering
• Use sticky traps
• Chemical miticides may be used

• Showy red fruits

• Attract frugivorous birds and aid seed dispersal
  

• Attract frugivorous birds and aid seed dispersal
• Red berries distinguish it from many other Anthurium species

Wild Population Status

• Restricted to a single known locality
• Conservation status not formally assessed but likely vulnerable due to narrow endemism

Market Availability

• Rare in cultivation
• Obtained only through specialist collectors or research exchanges