© Michael Wolf / CC BY-SA 3.0King Anthurium
Anthurium veitchii, known as the "King Anthurium," is an epiphytic species native to Colombia prized for its dramatic pendant leaves. Parallel lateral veins radiating from the midrib create a rippled, corduroy-like texture across the leaf surface, giving it a look unlike other houseplants. Mature leaf blades reach 50-90cm in length and 20-25cm in width, with petioles growing 60-95cm long, so established specimens develop an impressively large silhouette. As a perennial epiphyte, it calls for experienced-level care suited to its growth habit.
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Apply as a growerKing Anthurium key facts
- Growing Difficulty
- Advanced
- Lifespan
- Perennial
- Size
- Blades 50-90 cm long and 20-25 cm wide; petioles 60-95 cm
- Temperature
- 18〜29℃
- Watering
- Dilute liquid feed in the growing season
- Light & Placement
- Bright light without direct sun. The leaves hang long, so grow it high up or on a stand.
- Watering
- Water when the surface dries and avoid keeping the roots wet; rain or purified water is best.
- Temperature & Overwintering
- About 18-29°C, as for the genus. It is cold-sensitive; keep warm and humid in winter.
- Soil & Repotting
- Use airy materials such as bark chips or sphagnum. Repot in the growing season with minimal root disturbance.
- Propagation
- Propagate by stem cuttings or seed.
- Pests & Cautions
- Leaf tips die back in dry air. Anthuriums contain calcium oxalate crystals; chewing causes mouth pain, swelling and drooling. Keep out of reach of pets and small children.
About King Anthurium
Anthurium veitchii, the "King Anthurium," is a Colombian epiphyte with long pendant leaves showing a rippled texture. This perennial reaches 50-90cm leaf blades on 60-95cm petioles, an advanced-level houseplant.
7 things to know before growing King Anthurium
1Bright, Indirect Light
In its native Colombian forests, Anthurium veitchii grows as an epiphyte on tree trunks, so it prefers bright, indirect light rather than direct sun. Strong direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so place it somewhere the light is filtered, such as behind a sheer curtain.
2Water When Soil Dries
As an epiphyte, this plant is prone to root rot if the potting mix stays constantly wet. Water thoroughly once the top layer of soil has dried out, and always empty any water left in the saucer.
3Well-Draining Epiphytic Mix
In the wild it roots into bark and other organic debris on trees, so a chunky, airy mix of bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss suits it well. A standard houseplant potting soil alone tends to stay too wet.
4Keep Humidity High
Keeping the large leaves, which reach 50-90cm in length, healthy requires consistently high humidity. During dry seasons, mist the leaves or place a humidifier or a tray of water nearby to raise the surrounding humidity.
5Repot When Rootbound
When roots start emerging from the drainage holes during the active growing season, it's time to repot. Because the petioles can grow 60-95cm long, choose a sturdy, well-balanced pot suited to the plant's eventual size.
6Protect from Cold
As a tropical species, it is sensitive to cold, so keep it in a warm indoor spot when temperatures drop. During slower growth periods, water less frequently to avoid overly wet conditions.
7Choosing a Healthy Plant
Look for a specimen with clearly defined, ridged texture across the leaf surface and no discoloration or wilting at the leaf tips. Since this is considered an advanced-level plant, choosing one with well-established roots will make ongoing care easier.
Frequently asked questions about King Anthurium
- Q.Is this a good plant for beginners?
- A.Anthurium veitchii is considered an advanced-level plant. If you're not yet familiar with the watering and humidity needs of epiphytic plants, it may be worth building experience with easier houseplants first.
- Q.How large does this plant grow?
- A.Its leaf blades reach 50-90cm in length and 20-25cm in width, with petioles extending up to 60-95cm. As the plant matures, it develops an impressively large, dramatic silhouette.
- Q.Is the rippled leaf texture a sign of disease?
- A.No, this isn't a disease. The rippled, corduroy-like texture comes from the numerous lateral veins running parallel from the midrib, and it's a natural characteristic of this species.
- Q.Where should I place this plant?
- A.It prefers bright, indirect light and should be kept out of direct sun. Since it grows as an epiphyte on trees in the wild, good airflow alongside adequate humidity also helps it thrive.
- Q.How long does this plant live?
- A.Anthurium veitchii is a perennial, and with appropriate care it can be grown over many years. As the plant matures, its leaves also tend to increase in volume and size.
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