Anthurium clarinervium – Velvet Leaves and Clear White Veins
Anthurium clarinervium is a rare velvet-leaf Anthurium native to the limestone forests of Chiapas, Mexico. Known for its thick, heart-shaped leaves and striking, clear white veins, it brings a luxurious tropical feel to any indoor space. With moderate care needs and spectacular foliage, Anthurium clarinervium is an exceptional choice for collectors and enthusiasts looking to add a standout piece to their indoor jungle.
Why Anthurium clarinervium Is Special
- Velvet-Soft Leaves: Thick, dark green leaves with a soft, matte texture and pronounced white venation.
- Compact, Manageable Size: Grows to about 40–60 cm indoors, ideal for shelves, side tables, or plant displays.
- Slow, Steady Growth: Produces a few elegant new leaves per year under optimal conditions.
Native Habitat of Anthurium clarinervium
In its natural environment, Anthurium clarinervium grows terrestrially in the moist, limestone-rich forests of Chiapas at elevations between 800 and 1200 meters. These forests offer high humidity, moderate rainfall, filtered light, and excellent root aeration — conditions that should be mirrored indoors for optimal growth.
How to Care for Anthurium clarinervium
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate medium light but grows slower and with smaller leaves.
- Watering: Water when the top 2–3 cm of substrate dries out. Avoid overwatering and ensure excess water drains freely.
- Humidity: Needs high humidity (65–80%). Use a humidifier, pebble trays, or enclosed plant cabinets for best results.
- Temperature: Thrives between 18–26°C. Sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
- Substrate: Grow in a very airy mix of orchid bark, perlite, a small amount of sphagnum moss, and peat-free compost for moisture retention.
- Repotting: Every 1–2 years to refresh the substrate and allow healthy root expansion. Use shallow pots with excellent drainage.
- Fertilizing: Feed once per month in the growing season with a diluted, balanced fertilizer containing calcium and magnesium.
- Propagation: Best propagated through division of mature plants with multiple growth points.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
- Brown Leaf Edges: Often due to low humidity. Increase humidity with humidifiers or grouped plantings.
- Yellow Leaves: Usually a sign of overwatering or root stress. Check the substrate and adjust watering habits.
- Root Rot: Caused by poor drainage or overwatering. Always use a well-aerated substrate and allow for drying cycles.
- Pests: Susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. Wipe leaves regularly and treat infestations early with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Etymology and Botanical Insights
The genus name Anthurium comes from the Greek "ánthos" (flower) and "ourá" (tail), describing the tail-like inflorescence. The species name "clarinervium" derives from Latin, meaning "clear-veined," referring to the bright, distinct white venation that makes this species so striking.
Frequently Asked Questions About Anthurium clarinervium
- Can Anthurium clarinervium tolerate low light? It can survive in medium-light environments but grows stronger, healthier, and more vibrant in bright, indirect light.
- Is Anthurium clarinervium toxic? Yes, it contains calcium oxalate crystals and is toxic if ingested by pets or humans.
- What soil mix works best? A blend of orchid bark, perlite, a small amount of sphagnum moss, and peat-free compost ensures proper root aeration and moisture control.
Order Your Anthurium clarinervium Today!
Add Anthurium clarinervium to your collection and enjoy the timeless beauty of velvet foliage and crystalline veins. Order today and elevate your indoor jungle with this rare tropical masterpiece!
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
