Anthurium crystallinum
Anthurium crystallinum
Crystal Anthurium
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Description
Anthurium crystallinum is a striking velvet-leaved aroid prized for its deep green, heart-shaped leaves traced with bold, silvery veins. It thrives in bright, gentle light and high humidity, rewarding consistent care with lush, dramatic foliage that becomes a centerpiece in any collection.
Common Names
Crystal AnthuriumVelvet AnthuriumSilver Vein Anthurium
Context
nativeRegion
Tropical rainforests of Central and northwestern South America (notably Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Panama).
usdaZones
Grown outdoors year-round in USDA 10–12; commonly kept as an indoor plant elsewhere.
companionPlants
Philodendron, Monstera, Calathea (Goeppertia), Ferns, Alocasia, Peperomia
culturalUses
Valued as an ornamental foliage plant for interiors and collections; also used in breeding velvety anthurium hybrids.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light; avoid harsh direct sun that can scorch the velvety leaves.
WateringKeep evenly moist; let the top 1–2 inches of mix dry before watering again. Reduce slightly in winter.
SoilVery airy aroid mix: orchid bark, perlite/pumice, sphagnum or coco, and a bit of charcoal; slightly acidic (pH ~5.5–6.5).
FertilizerFeed at half-strength every 2–4 weeks in spring–summer with a balanced or 3-1-2 formula; monthly in fall; flush salts regularly.
HumidityHigh humidity 60–80% is ideal; use a humidifier or pebble tray with good airflow to prevent disease.
Temperature65–80°F (18–27°C). Protect from drafts; avoid below 55°F (13°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen, hemiepiphytic/terrestrial aroid forming a clumping rosette of large, heart-shaped leaves.
Mature SizeAbout 12–24 in (30–60 cm) tall and wide; individual leaves often 8–18 in (20–45 cm) long.
Growth RateModerate, slower in low light or cool conditions.
BloomingProduces a spadix with a greenish spathe, sporadically spring–summer; flowers are subtle indoors.
DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in winter with lower light and temperature.
Propagation
MethodsDivision, Stem cuttings with nodes, Seed, Tissue culture (advanced)
DifficultyModerate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove yellow or damaged leaves and spent inflorescences; wipe foliage to remove dust; light staking if needed.
RepottingRepot every 12–24 months or when roots circle the pot; size up 1–2 in with a very airy mix; avoid deep pots.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites, thrips, mealybugs, and scale. Prevent root rot with drainage. Good airflow reduces bacterial leaf spot/blight.
ToxicityToxic if ingested (insoluble calcium oxalate crystals). Can cause oral irritation; sap may irritate skin and eyes. Keep away from pets/kids.
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