Anthurium 'Ace of Spades' - Comprehensive Care and Insights
Anthurium 'Ace of Spades' is a highly sought-after tropical plant that commands attention with its velvety, heart-shaped foliage. These large, spade-like leaves emerge in deep, dramatic red tones before transitioning to shimmering bronze and maturing into an almost-black green with an iridescent finish. The velvety texture enhances the light interplay, creating a luxurious sheen that captivates onlookers. Its striking foliage is complemented by dark maroon blooms, adding a mysterious elegance to any indoor plant collection. Introduced in 1988 by Denis Rotolante of Silver Krome Gardens, this rare cultivar, known as the 'dark form,' stands out for its distinctive deep coloration and adaptable growth habits.
Anthurium 'Ace of Spades' thrives equally well as a terrestrial plant on the jungle floor or as an epiphyte clinging to tree trunks, making it an exceptional and versatile choice for plant enthusiasts. No matter where you are in your plant journey, this bold Anthurium promises to become the jewel of your collection.
Looking for a rare and visually striking plant? Anthurium 'Ace of Spades' is a collector’s dream, combining bold aesthetics with relatively easy care. Its rarity and dramatic appearance make it a coveted treasure for plant enthusiasts. Whether displayed as a centerpiece or paired with other tropical plants, it is sure to make a lasting impression.
Key Features of Anthurium 'Ace of Spades'
Foliage: Large, velvety, heart-shaped leaves that shift from red to bronze to deep blackish-green, boasting an iridescent glow.
Blooms and Fruits: Dark maroon flowers accompanied by similarly hued fruits containing white seeds.
Growth Habit: Anthurium 'Ace of Spades' can thrive as a terrestrial plant or as an epiphyte attached to trees, reflecting its jungle origins.
Unique Appeal: The dramatic, spade-like foliage offers a bold aesthetic reminiscent of the Ace of Spades playing card.Growth Rate: Anthurium 'Ace of Spades' exhibits a moderate growth rate, typically reaching full maturity within 2-3 years under optimal conditions.
Toxicity: Anthurium 'Ace of Spades' contains calcium oxalate crystals, making it toxic to humans and pets if ingested. Handle with care and keep out of reach of children and animals.
Complete Care Guide for Anthurium 'Ace of Spades'
To ensure your Anthurium 'Ace of Spades' thrives, replicate its native tropical conditions:
Light: Provide bright, indirect light. While Anthurium 'Ace of Spades' can tolerate lower light levels, optimal growth and leaf coloration occur with ample filtered light. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorching.
Watering: Water Anthurium 'Ace of Spades' thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil are dry. Ensure the pot has proper drainage to prevent waterlogging and root rot. Allow excess water to drain completely.
Humidity: Maintain high humidity levels, ideally between 70-80%. Utilize a humidifier or group with other plants to create a humid microenvironment. During drier winter months, monitor humidity carefully and adjust as needed.
Temperature: Keep Anthurium 'Ace of Spades' in a stable environment with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C. Avoid exposure to cold drafts or sudden temperature fluctuations, particularly during seasonal changes.
Soil: Use a well-draining, aerated mix suitable for epiphytes, such as a blend of perlite, peat moss, and coarse sand, to ensure proper airflow and moisture balance.
Repotting: Repot Anthurium 'Ace of Spades' every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Choose a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter with adequate drainage holes.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn.
Propagation: Propagate Anthurium 'Ace of Spades' via stem cuttings or root division during the active growing season. Ensure each cutting has at least 2-3 leaves and a healthy root system.
Hydroponics and Semi-Hydroponics: This Anthurium adapts well to semi-hydroponic systems using inert substrates. Transition gradually to allow root adaptation.
Pruning: Prune only to remove damaged or old leaves. For shaping, trim the tops in spring to encourage bushier growth.
Placement: Position Anthurium 'Ace of Spades' in a location with consistent warmth, high humidity, and protection from drafts or direct airflow from vents.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Anthurium 'Ace of Spades'
Yellowing Leaves: Often a result of overwatering or poor drainage. Adjust watering practices and ensure the soil has proper aeration.
Brown Leaf Edges: Indicative of low humidity. Increase ambient humidity levels to prevent desiccation.
Root Rot: Caused by waterlogged soil. Use well-draining soil and pots with adequate drainage; allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Pests: Susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, aphids, and scales. Regularly inspect the plant and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Leaf Spots: Fungal infections can occur in overly humid conditions with poor air circulation. Improve airflow and remove affected leaves promptly.
Drooping Leaves: Can indicate underwatering or a sudden change in temperature. Check the soil’s moisture level and adjust conditions accordingly.
Additional Plant Care Insights
Air Circulation: Promote good airflow to prevent fungal diseases and support overall plant health.
Propagation Timing: Best performed during the active growing season for optimal success.
Leaf Cleaning: Gently wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust, enhancing photosynthesis and reducing pest attraction.
Understanding the origins and growing habits of Anthurium 'Ace of Spades' enables you to replicate its preferred conditions, ensuring a thriving and visually stunning plant in your collection.
Etymology of Anthurium 'Ace of Spades'
The name reflects the plant’s dark, spade-like leaves, reminiscent of the Ace of Spades symbol in playing cards. This fitting moniker complements its bold aesthetic. Introduced by Denis Rotolante in 1988, its mystique adds to its collector's allure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How often should I water Anthurium 'Ace of Spades'?
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feel dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the pot has good drainage.
2. Can Anthurium 'Ace of Spades' grow in low light?
While it tolerates lower light levels, the plant thrives in bright, indirect light for optimal growth and vibrant leaf color.
3. What should I do if my Anthurium's leaves develop brown tips?
Brown tips are often caused by low humidity. Increase the humidity around the plant using a humidifier or by grouping it with other plants.
Bring home Anthurium 'Ace of Spades' with its velvety black leaves and dramatic charm. Shop now for this rare, striking houseplant and elevate your collection! We only have a few available each year, grown from stem cuttings of our own mother plant. Sign up for a back-in-stock request to secure yours!
Anthurium 'Ace of Spades'
This Anthurium 'Ace of Spades' specimen is sa. 35 cm tall and comes in an 12 cm nursery pot.
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*The first picture is always a representative picture.