Our Newest Plant Anthurium Crystallinum
On a recent trip to Michigan to visit one of our favorite plant stores, "I'm Planty & Fancy", we picked up a plant that we've been wanting to add to our collection for quite some time, the Anthurium Crystallinum. We we're a little reluctant to throw this beauty in the car and haul it the 7 1/2 hours back to our home in Wisconsin. We made sure to secure her well, keep temperatures pretty constant and we even converted the bathroom of our hotel room into a makeshift greenhouse. Well she made it back just fine and seems very comfortable in her new digs, our IKEA plant cabinet.
As former plant killers, we have spent a great deal of time over the past few years learning about plant care, developing easy to use care solutions, and just figuring out how to do things right. We sort of waited to level up to this beautiful and difficult to grow plant. We want to share what we're learned and hopefully help you to feel more comfortable about adding this gorgeous plant to your own collection.
A little background on the Variety:
The Anthurium Crystallinum is a captivating flowering plant belonging to the Araceae family. It is native to the rainforest margins of Central and South America, specifically from Panama to Peru. This epiphytic perennial species can reach a height and width of approximately 90 cm (35 in). One of its defining features is its large, velvety leaves that are ovate to heart-shaped, showcasing prominent white veining. While the blooms of Anthurium crystallinum may not be visually striking, they consist of green spathes and pale green spadices, appearing consistently throughout the year.
The Anthurium Crystallinum, known for its captivating foliage with dark green or reddish heart-shaped leaves and white veins, is often mistaken for Anthurium Clarinervium. However, there are distinct differences between the two. Anthurium Crystallinum has brighter green leaves and a slightly different leaf shape.
Care Tips:
Caring for Anthurium Crystallinum can be a challenge, especially in areas with long, cold winters. These plants thrive in long days and ample sunlight, which are not readily available in colder regions. Apologies to our readers from the cold parts of Europe; caring for Anthurium Crystallinum might require extra effort.
Here are some essential care tips:
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Lighting: Provide bright, indirect light to your plant. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight for extended periods as it can lead to leaf burn.
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Watering: Water your Anthurium Crystallinum once a week, ensuring proper drainage. Rainwater or distilled water is preferable for best results.
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Humidity: Maintain high humidity levels, aiming for 70%–80% if possible. Placing the plant in naturally humid rooms like the bathroom can help.
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Temperature: Anthurium Crystallinum prefers temperatures between 65 to 75°F (19 to 26°C). Avoid temperatures below 55°F, as they can be harmful.
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Size: Typically, Anthurium Crystallinum reaches a height and spread of about 0.5m after five years, but leaves can grow to impressive sizes.
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Toxicity: Keep in mind that all parts of Anthurium Crystallinum are poisonous if ingested.
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Diseases/Pests: Fungal infections are common, but Anthurium Crystallinum is generally not prone to pests. However, isolate new plants until you ensure they are pest-free.
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Fertilization: Choose between organic or chemical fertilizers based on your preference. Ensure a slow-release feed for optimal growth.
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Growth rate: Anthurium Crystallinum grows to a height and width of about 0.5m after two to five years. Better conditions lead to more growth.
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Light requirements: Provide bright, indirect light for at least 15 to 16 hours each day. Grow lights can compensate for insufficient sunlight.
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Potting soil: Anthurium Crystallinum can adapt to various soils, but a well-draining and airy potting mix is recommended. Incorporate organic matter like orchid bark or perlite for added nutrients and improved drainage.
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Repotting: Repot your Anthurium Crystallinum every two years during spring, summer, or early fall. Use organic, slow-release fertilizers during repotting to support growth.
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Propagation: Anthurium Crystallinum can be propagated through root division, stem cuttings, or seeds. Each method has its own requirements and success rates.
Finding Anthurium Crystallinum can be challenging, but platforms like Etsy may offer opportunities to purchase this rare plant. Remember to research sellers and seek reputable sources before making a purchase.
If you have plant-loving friends, please share these care tips to help spread the word about Urban Gardener and follow our planty journey. Happy gardening!
@geturbangardener