Anthuriums are tropical plants prized for their lush, heart-shaped leaves and showy spathes that come in a rainbow of colors. While the flamingo flower is likely the variety that first comes to mind, there are over 1,000 different anthurium species and cultivars to discover.
If you want to elevate your indoor jungle with unique houseplants, look no further than these 5 exotic anthurium types. Ranging from rare beauties to statement show-stoppers, these anthuriums are sure to become fast favorites.
Magnificent Black Anthuriums
Anthurium Watermaliense
The anthurium watermaliense, also called the black anthurium, is a truly striking plant. As its name implies, this anthurium has gorgeous black leaves rather than the more typical green. The deep purple-black foliage creates intense drama and contrast when paired with the plant’s bright red spathe and spadix flowers.
Despite its ominous coloring, the black anthurium is not at all difficult to grow. It thrives in partially sunny indoor locations and moderate humidity. Be sure to provide it with an airy, well-draining potting mix. Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Mist the leaves occasionally if your home’s humidity drops below 40%.
Anthurium Crystallinum
Sometimes called the velvet cardboard anthurium, A. crystallinum has foliage unlike any other. Its huge, deeply-lobed leaves have a soft velvety texture with subtle iridescent undertones. The leaves emerge in a pale mint green before darkening to grey-green with white veining as they mature.
This anthurium needs bright, indirect light to thrive. Water when the top third of the potting mix becomes dry. Maintain high humidity around the plant by grouping it with other tropicals, using a pebble tray, or regularly misting the leaves. Take care not to overwater, as A. crystallinum is prone to root rot if left in standing water.
Vining Anthuriums
Anthurium Scandens
One of the few vining anthurium species, A. scandens makes an especially excellent houseplant. Its long aerial roots easily cling to moss poles, allowing you to train upright or create stunning hanging displays. Heart-shaped leaves emerge in a lime green before maturing to a deeper olive green. The plant produces slender white spathes tipped with a splash of bright yellow.
For optimal growth indoors, provide A. scandens with filtered sunlight and plenty of moisture. Water whenever the top inch of potting mix becomes dry, allowing excess water to drain freely from the pot. Maintain high humidity around the plant. The vines can grow quite lengthy, so be sure to give them adequate vertical support. Trim back wayward stems if needed to keep growth under control.
“Explore the Exceptional 2023 Anthurium Collection: A Curated Selection of the Rarest and Most Unique Varieties Available.”
Anthurium Clarinervium
Few anthuriums can compete with A. clarinervium for sheer beauty. This stunner has huge, deeply-lobed leaves with prominent white veining against dark green. The contrast makes the veins seem to glow, especially when backlit. Pale green spathes emerge throughout the year, yielding a delicate contrast.
While breathtaking, A. clarinervium does require some special care. It must be shielded from direct light, which can burn the foliage. Provide brightly filtered sunlight instead. Maintain consistent moisture and humidity around 80% or higher. Use an acidic, organically rich soil. With the right conditions, the clarinervium will flourish for years.
Unique Miniature Anthuriums
Anthurium Forgetii
One of the smallest anthurium species, A. forgetii reaches just 6 inches tall at maturity. Its petite leaves are deeply lobed with a lush green color marked by bright white veining. Tiny white and green spathes occasionally emerge but are not the main attraction of this plant.
Forgetii enjoys partially sunny indoor spots with high humidity. Allow its soil to dry slightly between waterings, but don’t let it become fully dry. A. forgetii can be a slow grower, so patience is required. But its miniature size makes it an exceptional option for small-space gardens and tabletop displays where few other anthuriums would fit.
Anthurium Pallidiflorum
Another dwarf anthurium species, A. pallidiflorum forms a compact clump of triangular foliage no more than 8 to 10 inches tall. Its leaves have a deep green hue marked by delicate white venation. Pale pink spathes emerge on slender stems, yielding a beautiful contrast of colors.
Like other mini anthuriums, pallidiflorum responds well to indoor culture. Site in a warm area with bright, indirect sunlight. Maintain evenly moist soil and high ambient humidity. Pinch off old flowers to encourage new growth. Allow the soil to become slightly dry between waterings. When happy, this petite charmer will produce flowers and offset new plantlets readily.
Conclusion
Beyond the classic heart-leaf anthuriums found everywhere, exotic and rare varieties offer new sizes, shapes, colors and textures for indoor plant lovers to enjoy. Adding statement species like black, vining or clarinervium anthuriums takes any indoor jungle to the next level. For those short on space, miniature forgetii and pallidiflorum offer intrigue on a smaller scale.
With thousands of anthurium hybrids and species in existence, there’s an exotic option for everyone. No indoor garden is complete without at least one of these tropical beauties. So whether you’re looking to make a dramatic statement or appreciate intriguing foliage textures, exotic anthuriums have you covered.
See more 5 Essential Tips for Thriving Anthuriums – Unlock Vibrant Blooms!
-
by
-
