Anthurium Radicans (also known as Anthurium Malyi) belongs to the Araceae family and is renowned for its heavily textured, heart-shaped leaves. The unique bumps and grooves on the leaves, along with thin, symmetrical veins, add to their intricate beauty.
These “bubbled” leaves are not just ornamental – they have practical functions too. They help the plant capture light from various angles, maximizing the leaf’s surface area, and allow excess water to drain off quickly.
As an evergreen perennial, Anthurium Radicans retains its lush foliage all year round. It also boasts striking purple blooms that can last for 2-3 months! With proper care, this plant can thrive for several years.
The good news is that Anthurium Radicans is relatively easy to care for. It has low to moderate watering needs and is particularly sensitive to overwatering. To improve aeration and drainage, it’s advisable to add soil amendments like orchid bark and charcoal to commercial potting mixes.
Fertilize regularly but lightly, maintain humidity levels above 60%, and keep temperatures between 70-90°F (21-32°C). Be mindful that Anthurium Radicans is not cold-hardy.
In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to help your Anthurium Radicans flourish.
Origins
Anthurium Radicans is a rainforest plant native to parts of Southern Brazil and Ecuador. It has a creeping growth habit, similar to Philodendron Gloriosum, and spreads horizontally along the forest floor. First described in 1984, this plant has since become popular for its distinctive foliage.
Caring for Your Anthurium Radicans
Light
Indoors, place your Anthurium Radicans in a spot with bright, indirect light for optimal growth. The plant can handle up to 3 hours of direct sunlight daily, but avoid harsh afternoon rays to prevent leaf burn. Outdoors, position it in partial shade where it receives plenty of dappled light but is protected from direct sunlight.
One fascinating feature of Anthurium Radican is its geniculum—a “joint” between the leaf blade and petiole, unique to Anthuriums. This joint allows the leaf blade to rotate, maximizing light exposure.
Water
Water your Anthurium Radicans only when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Water deeply and slowly, letting excess water drain through the pot’s holes, and empty the saucer afterward. Check soil moisture regularly to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Humidity
In its native rainforest habitat, Anthurium Radicans thrives in nearly 100% humidity. Aim for humidity levels between 80-100%, though anything above 60% will keep your plant happy. Use a humidifier or a pebble tray to increase humidity if needed.
Temperature
Keep your Anthurium Radicans in a warm environment, ideally between 70-90°F (21-32°C). Avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C) and protect the plant from drafts and sudden temperature changes.
Flowering
Anthurium Radican produces inflorescences year-round, with blooms lasting 2-3 months. The maroon spathe and reddish-green spadix are often mistaken for flowers, but the actual flowers are tiny and grow along the spadix.
Growth
This plant grows to about 15-20 inches (38-51 cm) in height with a moderate growth rate. Its leaves are bullate and leathery to the touch. Due to its creeping habit, use a wide pot with drainage holes to accommodate its horizontal growth.
Soil or Growing Medium
Anthurium Radicans prefers a well-draining soil mix. Avoid dense commercial potting soils; instead, use an orchid mix or a moisture-control potting mix. Adding bark and charcoal improves drainage, and a slightly acidic pH of 6-6.5 is ideal for nutrient uptake.
Recommended soil mix:
- 1 part Miracle Gro potting mix (moisture control version)
- 1 part orchid bark
- 1 part perlite
- 2 handfuls of charcoal
Fertilizer
Feed your Anthurium Radicans with a gentle liquid orchid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). High phosphorous and nitrogen content will promote blooming and healthy foliage. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Repotting
Repot your Anthurium Radican every 2-3 years in the spring or summer. Choose a pot just 2 inches (5 cm) larger than the current one, and ensure it has drainage holes. Use fresh soil to replenish nutrients, and water the plant the day before repotting to reduce transplant shock.
Toxicity
Anthurium Radicans is toxic when ingested, as it contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can irritate skin and cause gastrointestinal issues if consumed. Keep it out of reach of pets and children, and wear gloves when handling the plant.
Propagation
Propagate Anthurium Radicans in spring by taking 6-inch (15 cm) stem cuttings with at least two leaves. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in moist potting mix. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and place the pot in bright, indirect light. Roots should establish within six weeks.
Pruning
Use sterilized shears to remove dead or wilted leaves, and cut off faded blooms at the base. Regular pruning keeps the plant healthy and encourages new growth.
Common Pests and Diseases
- Spider Mites: Look for pale stipplings or fine webbing on the leaves. Use neem oil as a preventative measure and maintain high humidity to deter these pests.
- Root Rot: Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Check our guide on rescuing overwatered plants for more details.
- Anthurium Blight: This bacterial disease starts as water-soaked lesions on the leaf edges. Prune infected leaves immediately and apply a copper-based fungicide to control its spread.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the lifespan of the Anthurium Radicans?
With proper care, Anthurium Radicans can live for several years. Follow this care guide to ensure longevity.
How can I encourage my Anthurium Radicans to bloom?
Ensure your plant receives bright, indirect light, consistent watering when the top 2 inches of soil are dry, humidity levels above 60%, and regular fertilization with a high-phosphorous fertilizer.
When do Anthurium Radicans bloom?
They bloom throughout the year, with more prolific flowering during spring and summer.
