Anthurium clarinervium is a rare Mexican houseplant celebrated for its velvety, heart-shaped leaves veined in white. This guide explains exactly how to help it thrive indoors in the UK, from humidity to soil and lighting.
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At a glance
- Light: Bright, indirect sunlight
- Water: Keep the soil lightly moist but never soggy
- Humidity: 60–80%
- Temperature: 18–26°C
- Soil: Airy mix with orchid bark, coir, and perlite
Light & placement
Place the plant near an east-facing window filtered by sheer curtains. Direct midday sun can scorch the velvety leaves, while too little light reduces colour contrast. During short UK winter days, supplement with an LED grow light for 10 hours daily.
Watering routine
Water when the top 2–3cm of soil feels dry. Drain thoroughly and never leave the pot sitting in water. This species dislikes waterlogging more than mild dryness. Mist the foliage weekly to maintain hydration without overdoing soil moisture.
Humidity & temperature
Maintain humidity around 60–80% and steady warmth between 18–26°C. Keep the plant away from radiators, fans, and draughts. Pebble trays, grouped plants, or small humidifiers all help create a microclimate.
Soil & potting mix
Combine 40% peat-free compost or coco coir, 30% orchid bark, 20% perlite, and 10% pumice for excellent aeration. Repot every 12–18 months in spring when roots begin to circle the pot. A slightly snug container encourages healthy root growth.
Feeding
Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring–summer). Reduce to once every 8 weeks in autumn and winter. Overfeeding can cause brown leaf edges, so flush the soil with plain water occasionally.
Pests & problems
- Spider mites: Rinse foliage and increase humidity.
- Mealybugs: Wipe leaves with diluted neem oil.
- Yellow leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.
- Brown edges: Low humidity or fertiliser burn.
Propagation
- Cut a stem below a node with sterile scissors.
- Place in moist sphagnum moss at 24°C.
- Roots appear in 4–6 weeks, then pot in airy mix.
Summary
With consistent humidity, bright filtered light, and a chunky soil mix, Anthurium clarinervium will reward you with stunning, velvet-textured foliage. Treat it with patience—new leaves take time but are worth the wait.
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Care checklist: Bright indirect light • Water when top 2–3cm is dry • Humidity 60–80% • Airy aroid mix • Fertilise monthly in growing season.
