How to Grow and Care for Anthurium Waterburyanum

The Anthurium waterburyanum is a prized hybrid plant known for its impressive foliage. Its most striking feature is its large, heart-shaped leaves that have a unique velvety texture. These deep green leaves can grow to a considerable size, making the plant a dramatic focal point in an indoor garden. Its parentage contributes to its robust nature, combining features from other anthuriums.

Anthurium Waterburyanum Care Guide

Light

Anthurium waterburyanum flourishes in bright, indirect sunlight, which mimics the filtered light of a tropical rainforest. Direct sun exposure is harmful and will scorch the leaves, so it should be avoided. An ideal placement is near a window with a sheer curtain or several feet away from a south-facing window to diffuse the intensity.

Insufficient light will lead to slower growth, while the right amount encourages the development of large, healthy leaves. For more precise care, a light level between 500 and 1,000 foot-candles is recommended. If natural light is limited, supplemental LED grow lights can provide the necessary spectrum for the plant to thrive.

Soil

As a hemiepiphytic plant, Anthurium waterburyanum begins its life on other plants and eventually sends roots to the forest floor. This growth habit requires an exceptionally airy and well-draining potting medium to prevent root rot. A dense, water-retentive soil will suffocate the roots, which are adapted to having access to oxygen.

An effective soil mix can be created by combining components that provide structure and aeration. A base of orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir or peat moss in equal parts works well. You can also add horticultural charcoal to keep the soil fresh and worm castings for a gentle supply of nutrients.

Water

Proper watering is important for this anthurium’s health. The goal is to maintain consistent moisture in the soil without it becoming waterlogged. Water the plant thoroughly only when the top one to two inches of the potting mix feel dry to the touch.

When you water, pour it evenly over the soil until it flows freely from the drainage holes. Discard any excess water that collects in the saucer, as letting the plant sit in water is a common cause of root rot. These anthuriums can be sensitive to chemicals in tap water, so using filtered water, rainwater, or tap water left out for 24 hours is a good practice.

Temperature and Humidity

Replicating the warm, humid conditions of its native environment is beneficial for Anthurium waterburyanum. The plant thrives in temperatures ranging from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Protect the plant from sudden temperature fluctuations and cold drafts, as it is not frost-tolerant and should be kept in a stable indoor environment.

High humidity is a requirement for this plant to flourish, with ideal levels between 60% and 80%. In a typical home, you may need to increase the ambient moisture. Using a humidifier near the plant is an effective method, but grouping plants together or placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water also helps.

Fertilizer

To support its large leaves, Anthurium waterburyanum benefits from regular feeding during its active growing season from spring through fall. A balanced liquid fertilizer is a suitable choice. Many growers use the fertilizer at a diluted strength, such as one-quarter of the recommended dose, to avoid burning the sensitive roots.

This diluted fertilizer can be applied with each watering during periods of active growth. Alternatively, a slow-release fertilizer can be incorporated into the potting mix. During the winter months, when growth slows, you should reduce or pause fertilizing.

Potting and Repotting

A clear sign that the plant needs a larger container is when its roots begin to grow out of the drainage holes. Other indicators include slowed growth or the potting mix breaking down and becoming compacted. This plant will need to be repotted every one to two years.

When it is time to repot, handle the process carefully to minimize stress. Gently remove the anthurium from its current pot and inspect the root ball, shaking off excess old soil. Place the plant into a new pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one, using an airy aroid mix.

Any pot must have adequate drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. A container that is too large can hold excess moisture in the soil, which may lead to root health issues. After repotting, water the plant thoroughly to help the new potting mix settle.

Propagation Techniques

Propagating Anthurium waterburyanum is done through stem cuttings. Before you begin, sterilize your cutting tool with rubbing alcohol to prevent the spread of disease. You must include at least one node on your cutting, as this is where new roots and leaves will form.

Identify a healthy section of the main stem that has a few leaves and visible nodes. Make a clean cut below a node, ensuring your cutting has at least one leaf to support photosynthesis. You can then place this cutting into a container of a rooting medium like sphagnum moss or perlite.

Keep the rooting medium moist but not saturated, and provide a warm, humid environment. Placing a clear plastic bag over the container can help maintain high humidity. In a few weeks to a couple of months, new roots will form from the node. Once a healthy root system has developed, the new plant can be potted.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

If you notice the leaves turning yellow, it is often a sign of overwatering. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule, allowing the mix to dry out more between waterings. Brown, crispy edges on the leaves point to a lack of humidity in the air. To remedy this, increase the ambient moisture around the plant using a humidifier or a pebble tray.

Pests such as spider mites and thrips can also affect the plant. Regularly inspect the undersides of the large leaves for any signs of infestation, like fine webbing or tiny insects. If pests are present, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil, making sure to get complete coverage. Physical damage to the large leaves can happen easily, so place the plant in a low-traffic area to protect its foliage.