How to Grow and Care for Anthurium Vittarifolium

Anthurium vittarifolium, also called the Strap Leaf or Ribbon Anthurium, is an epiphytic plant from South America’s tropical rainforests. As an epiphyte, it grows on other plants, like trees, rather than in soil. Its unique growth habit and dramatic foliage have made it a popular houseplant and a sought-after species for collectors.

Distinctive Features of Anthurium Vittarifolium

The most defining characteristic of this anthurium is its long, narrow leaves that hang downwards like ribbons. These pendant leaves have a leathery, or coriaceous, texture and are a deep, glossy green. In their native habitat, the leaves can reach lengths of up to two meters, or about 6.5 feet, creating a cascading effect well-suited for hanging baskets.

While grown primarily for its impressive foliage, Anthurium vittarifolium does produce flowers. The inflorescence consists of a spathe and spadix, the typical flower structure for anthuriums. The flowers are generally small but can lead to the production of small, pink to violet berries if pollinated.

Essential Care Guide

Light

Proper lighting is a significant factor for Anthurium vittarifolium. It thrives in bright, indirect light, which mimics the dappled sunlight it would receive under a rainforest canopy. Placing the plant five to eight feet from a window is often a suitable distance. Direct sunlight should be avoided, as it can scorch the leaves and cause damage.

Soil

The ideal potting medium for this plant must be chunky, airy, and well-draining to replicate its epiphytic growing conditions. A standard potting soil is too dense and retains too much water, leading to root problems. A successful mix often includes:

• Orchid bark
• Perlite
• Peat moss
• Wood shavings
• Macadamia nutshells

This type of substrate provides excellent aeration and prevents waterlogged conditions.

Watering

A consistent watering routine is necessary to keep the soil evenly moist but not saturated. A good practice is to check the top one to two inches of the soil; if it feels dry, it’s time to water. This plant does not like to dry out completely. When watering, do so thoroughly until water drains from the pot’s drainage holes, and discard any excess to prevent the plant from sitting in water.

Temperature and Humidity

Coming from a tropical environment, Anthurium vittarifolium prefers warm and humid conditions. The ideal temperature range is between 70°F and 86°F (21°C – 32°C). Temperatures below 60°F (16°C) can be harmful. High humidity is important, with levels of 70% or higher being optimal. To increase humidity, one can use a room humidifier, mist the leaves regularly, or place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water.

Fertilizer

During the active growing season in spring and summer, fertilizing can support healthy foliage development. A balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength is a good option. Fertilize every two to four weeks with a high-nitrogen formula. It is best to water the plant before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn.

Propagation Techniques

Anthurium vittarifolium is most commonly propagated through stem cuttings or division. Both methods are reliable ways to create new plants from a mature specimen. When taking a stem cutting, use a sterilized knife or scissors to make a clean cut just below a node, the point on the stem where a leaf emerges.

The cutting should be a few inches long and can be rooted in water or a rooting medium like sphagnum moss. If rooting in water, the container should be placed in bright, indirect light, and the water changed weekly. Roots begin to form within four to eight weeks. Once the roots are an inch or two long, the cutting can be transferred to a chunky soil mix. Division involves separating the plant at its root ball, ensuring each new section has a healthy system of roots and leaves before repotting.

Common Growing Issues

Pests

Anthurium vittarifolium can be susceptible to common pests such as:

• Spider mites
• Mealybugs
• Thrips
• Aphids

Regular inspection of the leaves, particularly the undersides, is the best way to catch an infestation early. If pests are found, they can be dislodged with a spray of water. For persistent issues, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oils.

Leaf Discoloration

The appearance of the leaves is a good indicator of the plant’s health. Browning or crispy leaf tips often suggest that the humidity is too low or there is an issue with the watering routine. Yellowing leaves are a frequent sign of overwatering, which can lead to root rot. If the roots become soft and mushy, it is a clear indication of root rot, and the affected parts should be trimmed before repotting in a fresh, airy mix.