Anthurium Regale

 

The Anthurium Regale captivates with its exquisite beauty, showcasing generously sized, heart-shaped leaves adorned with profound pale veins. Its popularity persists, even though this captivating plant is considered relatively rare.

Navigating the care routine for Anthurium Regale requires a bit of finesse. If you’ve successfully cared for other Anthurium varieties, handling the Regale should prove manageable by following our guidance.

However, for those new to Anthuriums, we advise starting with a more beginner-friendly option like the Anthurium Crystallinum and gradually progressing from there.

Essential care considerations include:

1. Humidity is Paramount: Maintain a minimum humidity level of 60% for a thriving plant, with 80% being the ideal target.
2. Temperature Moderation: Keep temperatures within the range of 60-78 degrees F (16-26 degrees C) for optimal growth.
3. Well-Ventilated Soil Mix: Utilize an airy soil mix by incorporating orchid bark, as conventional commercial mixes tend to be overly dense.
4. Judicious Watering: Adopt the soak and dry method, watering only when the topsoil is dry to prevent overhydration.
5. Fertilize with Restraint: Apply fertilizer sparingly; slow-release pellets are preferable to shield delicate roots.

Let’s delve into the intricacies of these care aspects!

Where does the Anthurium Regale come from?

The Anthurium Regale originates from the terrestrial landscapes of North East Peru, specifically in the elevated regions of the upper Amazonian area. Although it thrives at relatively low elevations, this plant thrives in environments characterized by mild temperatures and high humidity.

Belonging to the extensive Aroid family, the Anthurium Regale stands as one among more than 1,000 distinct Anthurium species.

Caring for Your Anthurium Regale

Light

Place your Anthurium Regale in a well-lit area with plenty of indirect light. Optimal locations include east or north-facing windows. Avoid direct sunlight, and if needed, use a shade cloth to filter intense light.

Water

Adopt the “soak and dry” method for watering your Anthurium Regale.

• Check the top 2 inches of soil for dryness before watering.
• Water gradually and deeply, avoiding leaf contact.
• Saturate the soil until excess water drains from the pot.
• Empty the saucer to prevent water accumulation.

Frequency: Typically once or twice a week, adjusting based on seasonal and climatic variations.

Humidity

Maintain high humidity levels (60-80%), essential for this tropical plant. Indoor humidity often falls short, so consider a humidifier or a pebble tray to enhance moisture.

Air Circulation

Ensure gentle air circulation without creating drafts. Placing the plant near a ceiling fan or balcony is beneficial.

Temperature

Maintain temperatures between 60-78 degrees F (16-26 degrees C) for optimal growth. Anthurium Regale thrives in stable indoor conditions and isn’t recommended for outdoor cultivation.

Flowering

Despite its “flamingo flower” moniker, Anthurium Regale is not prized for its blooms. In the wild, it produces modest yellow-green spathes and spadices, with tiny, numerous flowers.

Growth

Expect moderate growth, slightly slower than other Anthurium varieties. Adequate indirect light and high humidity (60-80%) accelerate growth. Indoor specimens can reach 6-8 feet in height, boasting majestic leaves spanning up to 3 feet.

Soil/Growing Medium

Create a well-draining mix for Anthurium Regale using:

• 2 parts orchid mix
• 1 part perlite
• 1 part orchid bark

Promote airflow to prevent root rot, as typical commercial mixes may be too dense.

Fertilizer

Anthurium Regale is a light feeder with delicate roots. Apply a slow-release fertilizer like Osmocote at half strength twice a year (spring and fall). Alternatively, choose urea-free liquid fertilizers also at half strength.

Repotting

Repotting the Anthurium Regale is a rare event due to its modest root structure in proportion to its sizable leaves. Plan to repot approximately every 2-3 years, primarily when the roots become bound.

Best Time: Opt for spring to allow the plant to recover under optimal growing conditions. Preparation: Water the plant 24 hours before repotting to mitigate transplant shock. Technique: Gently free compacted soil, being mindful not to damage roots. Refer to our repotting guide for a detailed step-by-step process.

Toxicity

Unfortunately, Anthurium Regale is toxic when ingested by pets and humans. For those seeking non-toxic alternatives, consider Hoyas and Calatheas.

Propagation

Stem cuttings are the preferred method for propagating Anthurium Regale. Follow these steps:

1. Identify a 7-inch (18cm) section of the stem with at least 2 leaves.
2. Cut just above the node.
3. Fill a pot 2/3 full with well-draining potting mix (refer to the Soil section for details).
4. Create a small hole for the stem cutting using your finger.
5. Place the plant in a warm location with ample indirect light. Consider using an 80% humidity level, achievable with a humidifier.
6. Approximately 6 weeks later, confirm root development by gently tugging the plant.

Pruning

Pruning is generally minimal for Anthurium Regale, reserved for dead or wilted foliage or excessively leggy stems.

Procedure: Use sanitized garden shears to cut just above the node. Preventive Measure: Always sterilize gardening tools with a 70% isopropyl solution to prevent contamination and the spread of bacteria.

Common Pests and Diseases for Anthurium Regale

Pest Infestations

1. Spider Mites:
   • Characteristics: Tiny (1/50 inch or 0.5mm), difficult to observe without a microscope. Look for pale, grey stipplings on leaves or fine webbing on leaf undersides and stems.
   • Solution: Bonide Insecticidal Soap Spray effectively targets and eliminates spider mites.
2. Mealybugs:
   • Characteristics: Resemble bits of cotton wool, often clustering in hard-to-reach corners.
   • Solution: Bonide Insecticidal Soap Spray is an effective remedy for mealybug infestations.
3. Scale:
   • Characteristics: Shell-like bumps, clustered together, ranging from 1/16 to 1/8 inch. Various colors may be observed.
   • Solution: Bonide Insecticidal Soap Spray is a versatile solution to combat scale infestations.
4. Aphids:
   • Characteristics: Light green, pear-shaped (1/8 inch or 0.3cm), but can appear in various colors.
   • Solution: Bonide Insecticidal Soap Spray is a comprehensive remedy for aphids in different hues.

Root Rot (Phytophthora or Pythium)

• Causes: Overwatering leading to reduced air supply at the roots, resulting in decay and fungal growth.
• Prevention:
  • Check soil moisture before watering, ensuring the topsoil is dry.
  • Utilize a well-aerated soil mix with orchid potting mix, orchid bark, and perlite.
• Recovery: Follow a step-by-step guide on saving an overwatered plant.

Anthurium Blight

• Causes: Often spread through wind and rain, characterized by dark lesions on leaves with a subsequent yellow halo.
• Preventive Measures:
  • Quarantine infected plants.
  • Prune damaged leaves with sterilized scissors dipped in a 70% alcohol solution.
  • Securely dispose of pruned leaves and re-sterilize scissors.
  • Apply a copper-based fungicide to contain the disease and prevent further spread.

Recommended Solution: Bonide Insecticidal Soap Spray serves as an effective and versatile treatment for various pests, ensuring a comprehensive approach to pest control for Anthurium Regale.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Anthurium Regale rare?

• Yes, the Anthurium Regale is considered moderately rare. Its exquisite beauty and somewhat challenging care requirements make it a sought-after species. Due to its rarity and premium value, it may not be the ideal choice for absolute beginners. However, for those with some gardening experience, the allure of its stunning leaves makes it worth a try.

What kind of pot should I choose for an Anthurium Regale?

1. Drainage Holes:
   • Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent stagnant water, reducing the risk of root rot.
2. Material:
   • Opt for a clay pot as it is porous, promoting better air circulation around the roots.
3. Size:
   • Select a pot of appropriate size, considering that Anthurium Regale has relatively small root systems. A large pot is unnecessary, and choosing a size that accommodates the plant’s needs will suffice.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, the Anthurium Regale, a rare gem from Peru, thrives with elevated humidity (60-80%) and gentle indoor temperatures. The secret to its contentment lies in well-aerated soil and judicious fertilization.

The allure of its large, intricately veined leaves makes the care efforts more than worthwhile.

For those intrigued by Anthuriums, the Anthurium Forgetii might be your next captivating venture. Happy gardening!