Anthurium veitchii
Anthurium veitchii
King Anthurium
★
Description
Anthurium veitchii, the King Anthurium, flaunts long, corrugated, pendant leaves that can reach several feet, giving interiors a bold, tropical statement. With bright filtered light, warmth, and high humidity, this dramatic aroid is surprisingly manageable at home.
Common Names
King AnthuriumVeitch’s Anthurium
Context
nativeRegion
Tropical rainforests of Colombia (northern Andes), often growing epiphytically on trees.
usdaZones
10–12 (outdoors only in frost-free, humid climates; otherwise as a houseplant).
companionPlants
Philodendron gloriosum, Monstera adansonii, Anthurium crystallinum, Orchid (Phalaenopsis), Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)
culturalUses
Highly prized ornamental for collectors and interior design; used in botanical displays for its architectural foliage.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light; a few hours of gentle morning sun is fine. Avoid harsh midday sun that can scorch leaves.
WateringWater when the top 1–2 in (2.5–5 cm) of mix is dry. Keep evenly moist in the growing season, slightly less in winter; never let sit in water.
SoilVery airy, fast-draining aroid mix: chunky orchid bark, perlite/pumice, sphagnum moss, and charcoal; slightly acidic to neutral pH. Mounting is optional.
FertilizerFeed 1/4–1/2 strength balanced or urea-free fertilizer every 2–4 weeks in spring–summer; flush salts monthly; minimal feeding in winter.
HumidityHigh humidity 60–80% is ideal; use a humidifier or greenhouse cabinet and ensure gentle airflow to prevent leaf spots.
Temperature65–85°F (18–29°C) ideal; avoid below 60°F (15°C) and cold drafts; protect from heat above 90°F (32°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEpiphytic/climbing aroid with pendant, deeply corrugated leaves forming a rosette; grown semi-terrestrially in pots.
Mature SizeLeaves 3–6 ft (0.9–1.8 m) long and 4–10 in (10–25 cm) wide; plant span 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m).
Growth RateModerate; faster with bright light, warmth, and high humidity.
BloomingProduces periodic spadix and spathe; flowers are modest and mainly for seed, plant is valued for foliage.
DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in cooler, darker months.
Propagation
MethodsDivision of clumps, Stem cuttings with nodes and aerial roots, Seed (rare, slow)
DifficultyModerate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove yellowing leaves and spent inflorescences; sanitize tools; avoid removing healthy roots or aerial roots.
RepottingRepot every 1–2 years into fresh chunky mix when roots circle or the plant dries out quickly; tall pots or mounts support pendant leaves.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for thrips, spider mites, mealybugs, and scale; treat with insecticidal soap or neem. Prevent root rot with drainage and airflow; bacterial leaf spot can occur in stagnant, wet conditions.
ToxicityToxic if ingested due to calcium oxalate crystals; may irritate skin and mouth. Keep away from pets and children.
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