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Anthurium zachdufranianum Croat 

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Anthurium zachdufranianum Croat & O.Ortiz
  • Common Name: No widely used common name reported in the primary literature

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to Panama
  • Features: Bright pinkish-orange fruit, 3 sided petioles. 

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Anthurium
  • Botanical Background: Described by renowned botanists Croat and O. Ortiz, the species adds to the rich tapestry of Neotropical aroids. Its discovery and subsequent classification have contributed to a deeper understanding of the diversity within the Anthurium genus.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Panama, Chiriquí Province in a Premontane rain forest.
  • Environment: Naturally thrives in very humid, shaded understory environments; organically rich soils with consistent moisture and moderate temperatures.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Broad, leathery leaves
  • Smooth texture
  • Subtle, natural variegation

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Vibrant spathe and displays eye-catching color
  • Slender spadix that supports a complex pollination mechanism that involves attracting specific pollinators through visual and potential scent cues

Growth Habit

  • Typically terrestrial
  • Exhibits a clumping growth form with a rhizomatous base
  • Habit supports its stability in soft, forest floor substrates while enabling gradual lateral expansion

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Bright, indirect light
  • Benefits from filtered sunlight that mimics the dappled shade of its native forest understory

Watering & Humidity

  • Regular watering is essential
  • The soil should be kept consistently moist without being waterlogged
  • High ambient humidity, ideally above 60%, helps maintain optimal growth conditions

Soil & Potting Mix

  • A well-draining, organic-rich potting mix is preferred
  • A blend that includes components such as peat, perlite, and orchid bark can closely simulate its natural forest environment

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Moderate tropical range (approximately 65-80°F or 18-27°C) is ideal
  • Balanced, diluted fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season supports robust development

Propagation Methods

Division and Cuttings

  • Most common propagation technique is through division of the rhizomes
  • Careful separation of clumps during repotting can successfully yield new plants

Stem Cuttings (if applicable)

  • May also be explored with controlled propagation methods

Seeds

  • Requires precise conditions to stimulate germination
  • Fresh seeds benefit from high humidity and stable, warm temperatures to achieve optimal viability

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Spider mites and mealybugs
  • Occasional root rot from overwatering

Treatment Recommendations

  • Regular inspection and maintaining proper air circulation can prevent many issues
  • Adjusting watering practices
  • Ensuring proper drainage help mitigate fungal concerns

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Distinctive inflorescence and foliage have captivated collectors and researchers alike.
  • Unusual spathe and textured leaves make it a standout specimen in private collections and specialized botanical displays

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • Due to its limited natural distribution, there are concerns about habitat loss and environmental pressures on wild populations

Market Availability

  • Uncommon in cultivation
  • Typically available through botanical exchanges catering to rare and exotic aroid collectors

References & Resources

Further Reading

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