Anthurium clarinervium – Velvet Elegance from the Forests of Chiapas
Anthurium clarinervium is a rare, compact velvet Anthurium with thick, heart-shaped leaves and distinct white veins. Native to the karstic rainforests of Chiapas, Mexico, this species is a favorite among collectors for its architectural foliage, matte texture, and slow, sculptural growth. Ideal for interiorscaping or as a standout in your rare aroid shelf.
Not to be confused with Anthurium crystallinum, clarinervium develops rounder, thicker foliage with more compact internodes — and a more deliberate, refined growth rhythm.
What Makes Anthurium clarinervium Unique
- Velvety Contrast: Matte, dark green leaves with crisp white veins for maximum graphic impact
- Compact Growth: Stays manageable indoors (40–60 cm), making it perfect for shelves and plant cabinets
- Refined Pace: Produces a few high-quality leaves per year — built for patient collectors
Native Habitat – Chiapas Limestone Forests
This species grows terrestrially in Mexico’s moist, limestone-rich cloud forests at 800–1200 m elevation. The environment provides high humidity, filtered light, excellent drainage, and consistently warm temperatures. To thrive indoors, mirror these lowland tropical conditions with loose substrates and good airflow.
Care Tips for Growing Anthurium clarinervium Indoors
- Light: Bright, indirect light is best; avoid harsh sun to protect velvet texture
- Watering: Allow top 10–15% of substrate to dry out between waterings; never let sit in water
- Humidity: Needs high humidity (65–80%) — stable conditions prevent edge crisping
- Temperature: Thrives in 18–26 °C; protect from cold drafts or temperature swings
- Substrate: Use an airy blend of orchid bark, perlite, coco husk, and peat-free compost
- Feeding: Monthly, dilute aroid fertilizer with calcium/magnesium for strong leaf development
- Repotting: Every 1–2 years to refresh mix and prevent compaction; use a shallow, wide pot
- Propagation: Best done by careful division once multiple growth points appear
Common Issues and What They Mean
- Brown Edges: Usually caused by low humidity or inconsistent watering
- Yellow Leaves: A sign of root stress from soggy substrate — check drainage
- Pest Pressure: Watch for spider mites or mealybugs; clean foliage and act early with neem or insecticidal soap
- Root Rot: Avoid waterlogging by using a coarse, breathable mix
Taxonomy, Naming and Collector Context
The genus name Anthurium is from the Greek ánthos (flower) and ourá (tail), referring to the plant’s characteristic spadix. The species name clarinervium means “clearly veined” in Latin, a nod to its striking venation pattern. Described by E. Matuda in 1950, it remains one of the most iconic velvet-leaf Anthuriums in cultivation.
FAQs – Anthurium clarinervium Explained
- Is Anthurium clarinervium beginner-friendly? Yes — it’s slow but forgiving when humidity and light are stable.
- How is it different from Anthurium crystallinum? Clarinervium has thicker, rounder leaves and a more compact growth habit.
- Is it toxic? Yes — contains calcium oxalate. Keep away from pets and children.
- Will it flower indoors? Occasionally, but the inflorescence is small and greenish — it's all about the leaves.
- Can I grow it in a cabinet? Absolutely — it's perfect for high-humidity setups and slow-growth styling.
Why Choose Anthurium clarinervium?
With its crisp venation, velvet matte finish, and slow architectural form, Anthurium clarinervium is a must-have for rare plant lovers and interior plant stylists alike. Add it to your collection and let your foliage do the talking.
Anthurium clarinervium
Anthurium clarinervium comes in following sizes:
Baby Plant – comes in a ⌀ 6 cm pot and is approximately 10-12 cm tall
M – comes in a ⌀ 12 cm pot and is approximately 25 cm tall
L – comes in a ⌀ 15 cm pot and is approximately 40 cm tall
