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Syngonium gentryanum Croat

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Syngonium gentryanum
  • Common Name: Gentry’s Arrowhead

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to Central America
  • Features: Arrowhead-shaped leaves; mix of green, silver, and lighter variegation

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Syngonium
  • Botanical Background: Named after the American botanist Dr. Thomas B. Croat, who described it in 1979, the species was initially identified in Central America during extensive aroid research.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Found in the humid, tropical rainforests of Panama and Costa Rica, typically at elevations of 500 to 1,200 meters.
  • Environment: Thrives in warm, humid conditions, with a preference for shaded understory environments; naturally grows in well-draining, organic-rich soils and requires consistently high humidity and moderate temperatures

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Deeply lobed, with an arrow or heart-like shape
  • Glossy texture
  • Variegation becomes more prominent as the plant matures
  • Light to dark green green coloration

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Cream-colored spadix surrounded by white to pale green spathe
  • Pollinated by insects
  • Mild scent; not as fragrant as some other aroids

Growth Habit

  • Epiphytic or hemiepiphytic in nature, primarily terrestrial
  • Climbs nearby trees or structures for support

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Bright, indirect light; can tolerate lower light conditions

Watering & Humidity

  • Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
  • Benefits from high humidity (60–80%), mirroring its rainforest habitat
  • Regular misting or placement in humid environments

Soil & Potting Mix

  • A well-draining, organic-rich potting mix (peat, perlite, and bark)

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Prefers between 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F)
  • Balanced liquid fertilizer at half-strength once a month during active growth

Propagation Methods

Division

  • Propagate through stem cuttings with at least one node

Seeds

  • Not widely practiced for this species due to its relatively rare occurrence in cultivation

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids
  • Root rot can occur if overwatered or kept in poorly draining soil

Treatment Recommendations

  • Insecticidal soap or neem oil for insect infestations
  • Avoid letting the plant sit in stagnant water
  • Ensure the soil has good drainage

Notable Traits & Uses

  • An attractive ornamental plant, admired for its distinctive leaf shapes and glossy texture
  • Valued as a climber that helps maintain biodiversity by supporting other species
  • Favored in horticulture for its unique growth pattern and ornamental foliage
  • Sought after by collectors due to its rarity and striking appearance

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • Not currently listed as endangered
  • Habitat destruction in its native range could pose a threat to its wild population

Market Availability

  • Relatively rare
  • May be available from specialized nurseries or collectors

References & Resources

Further Reading

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