Anthurium hookeri
Anthurium hookeri
Bird's Nest Anthurium
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Description
Anthurium hookeri, the Bird's Nest Anthurium, forms a lush rosette of thick, glossy leaves with speckled petioles. Tough and tropical, it thrives in bright, warm humidity and adds instant jungle texture indoors or on shaded patios.
Common Names
Bird's Nest AnthuriumHooker's AnthuriumBirdnest Anthurium
Context
nativeRegion
Caribbean and northern South America (Trinidad & Tobago, Lesser Antilles, Venezuela, Guyana).
usdaZones
10-12
companionPlants
Monstera deliciosa, Philodendron bipinnatifidum, Aglaonema commutatum, Goeppertia/Calathea spp., Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata), Orchids (Phalaenopsis, Dendrobium)
culturalUses
Ornamental foliage for interiorscapes, atriums, shaded patios, and understory plantings in frost-free gardens.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light to dappled sun; tolerates medium light but avoid harsh midday sun.
WateringWater when the top 1-2 in (2.5-5 cm) of mix dries; keep evenly moist, never soggy. Reduce slightly in winter.
SoilChunky, well-draining aroid mix (orchid bark, perlite, coco/peat, charcoal); slightly acidic to neutral pH.
FertilizerBalanced, dilute (1/4–1/2 strength) every 4–6 weeks in spring–summer; slow-release in spring works well. Little to none in winter.
HumidityPrefers 60–80%; tolerates 40–50% with slower growth. Increase with a humidifier or pebble tray and airflow.
TemperatureWarm, 65-85°F (18-29°C). Avoid below 55°F (13°C) and cold drafts.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen bird's-nest rosette; epiphytic to terrestrial aroid.
Mature SizeIndoors 2-3 ft tall and wide; outdoors up to 4+ ft in ideal conditions.
Growth RateModerate with warmth, humidity, and regular feeding.
BloomingSporadic year-round in warm conditions; small greenish spathe and spadix; berries may follow; flowers not showy.
DormancyNo true dormancy; slight winter slowdown.
Propagation
MethodsDivision of clumps, Separation of basal offsets, Seed (after hand-pollination)
DifficultyModerate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove yellowing or damaged leaves and spent inflorescences at the base; occasional grooming to keep the rosette open.
RepottingEvery 1-2 years or when roots circle the pot; step up one size and refresh chunky mix with excellent drainage.
Pests & DiseasesMealybugs, scale, thrips, and spider mites possible; root rot from overwatering; bacterial leaf spot if leaves stay wet and crowded.
ToxicityToxic if ingested (calcium oxalate crystals); causes oral irritation and vomiting in pets and humans; sap may irritate skin.
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