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Bau brevicuspis (Hook.f.) S.Y.Wong & P.C.Boyce

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Anthurium alatum Engl.
  • Common Name: Winged Anthurium (though not widely used)

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Tropical rainforests of Central and/or South America
  • Features: Winged petioles, elliptical to lanceolate leaves, and a slender greenish spadix

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Anthurium
  • Botanical Background: Described by Adolf Engler, a prominent botanist specializing in tropical Araceae. While not as commonly encountered as some ornamental Anthurium species, it remains a point of interest for collectors due to its unique morphology.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Found in humid, tropical regions of Central and South America, often in mid-elevation rainforests.
  • Environment: Prefers moist, shaded understories with ample humidity, typically growing as an epiphyte on tree trunks or occasionally rooted in leaf litter on the forest floor.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Large, glossy, and oval-shaped with a deep green coloration)
  • They can grow up to 30 cm in length and exhibit a leathery texture

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • The spadix is small and yellowish, surrounded by a pale spathe
  • Not particularly fragrant, and pollination occurs primarily through insect interaction

Growth Habit

  • A terrestrial plant with a rhizomatous growth habit
  • Does not climb and remains low to the ground, forming dense clumps

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade

Watering & Humidity

  • Requires consistently moist soil and high humidity levels
  • Ideal for greenhouse or indoor cultivation with a humidifier

Soil & Potting Mix

  • A well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter is preferred
  • A mix of peat, perlite, and orchid bark provides the ideal conditions for growth

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Prefers temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C
  • Balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season monthly

Propagation Methods

Division and Cuttings

  • Rhizome division
  • Ensuring each section has at least one leaf and root node


Seeds

  • Less common due to variable germination
  • Requires high humidity and warmth, and seeds should be sown in a sterile medium

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Spider mites and mealybugs
  • Root rot can occur if the soil remains overly wet

Treatment Recommendations

  • Regular inspection and maintaining optimal moisture levels are key
  • Ensuring proper drainage can prevent fungal issues

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Not widely known outside of specialist aroid circles
  • Its ornamental leaves make it a rare gem for collectors
  • Prized for its attractive, glossy leaves
  • An excellent choice for shaded garden spots or as an ornamental indoor plant

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • There are no major conservation concerns for Bau brevicuspis at this time, but like many tropical species, habitat destruction poses a potential risk

Market Availability

  • Not widely available in commercial nurseries
  • Can be found in specialty plant shops or through aroid collectors

References & Resources

Further Reading

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