Anthurium rubrivellus Croat & D.C.Bay

• Genus: Anthurium
• Botanical Background: Described as new to science in Novon (2006) by Thomas B. Croat and Dorothy C. Bay. The epithet rubrivellus (“deep red wool”) refers to the appearance of its mature infructescences .

• Geographical Range: Endemic to Colombia’s Pacific coast: Departments of Chocó and Valle del Cauca.
• Environment: Tropical wet forest and wet forest–premontane transition zones below 150 m elevation; grows on tree trunks in primary and older regrowth forests, where humidity exceeds 80% and annual rainfall reaches 6,000–8,000 mm.

Leaves

• Blades triangular‑ovate to ovate
• Glossy dark green above, matte pale green below

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Spathe is reflexed, green to yellow‑green tinged purple
• Spadix sessile, white at anthesis, becoming purplish red

Growth Habit

• Epiphytic or rarely terrestrial

• Stem appressed to host

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light
• Avoid hot midday sun which can scorch leaves

Watering & Humidity

• Moist substrate without waterlogging
• High humidity (>60%) 

Soil & Potting Mix

• A well‑draining aroid mix (orchid bark, perlite, peat moss) 

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Temperatures ideal range 18–28 °C (64–82 °F)

• A balanced, water‑soluble fertilizer monthly during active growth

Division and Stem Cuttings

• Separate clumps at the rhizome
• Ensure each division has at least one growth point

Seeds

• Seed propagation is uncommon
• Require warm (25–30 °C), humid conditions and light for germination

Typical Issues

• Spider mites, mealybugs, aphids and scale insects

Treatment Recommendations

• Neem oil or insecticidal soap
• Wiping pests with alcohol‑soaked cotton swabs
• Isolating and quarantining infested plants promptly

• Woolly appearance of the fruiting spikes inspired its name
• Strongly exserted tepals around red berries resemble deep red chenille yarn

• Dramatic foliage and rare glowing red infructescences

Wild Population Status

• Not yet evaluated by IUCN
• Endemic to a restricted lowland range
• May face habitat pressure from deforestation

Market Availability

• Rare in general trade

• Offered by specialist tropical plant nurseries and aroid societies