Anthurium Salgarense

If you’re a collector of rare aroids, the Anthurium salgarense is a plant that commands attention. Its captivating beauty lies in a stunning combination of velvety texture and striking color contrasts. This isn’t a plant you’ll find at your local garden center, which makes understanding its care all the more important for those lucky enough to own one.

Native to a very specific region in Colombia, this Anthurium is a true gem. It grows as an epiphyte, meaning it lives on other plants in its natural habitat. It gets its moisture and nutrients from the air and rain. This tells us a lot about the conditions it needs to thrive in our homes.

Let’s get to know this plant a bit better. The most striking feature is undoubtably its leaves. New leaves emerge a bright, coppery-orange or red color. As they mature, they deepen into a rich, dark green with a velvety sheen that feels incredible to touch. The contrast between the new and old growth is constant source of visual interest.

The leaf veins are often a pale silver or cream color, creating a beautiful network against the dark background. While it can flower, producing a classic Anthurium spathe and spadix, the foliage is the true star of the show. It’s a plant you grow for its breathtaking leaves.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Recreating a slice of its Colombian cloud forest home is key. This doesn’t mean making things complicated, but rather focusing on a few critical elements.

Light Requirements

Bright, indirect light is perfect. Think of the dappled light under a forest canopy. An east-facing window is often ideal. A few feet back from a south or west window with a sheer curtain also works well.

Avoid direct sun, which will scorch those precious velvety leaves.
Too little light will result in slow growth and loss of that intense leaf coloration.
Consider using a grow light if your natural light is limited, especially in winter.

Temperature & Humidity

This is a tropical plant that appreciates warmth and moisture in the air. Aim for temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C – 27°C). Keep it away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and heating sources.

High humidity is non-negotiable for healthy growth. Try to maintain levels above 60%. Here are some practical ways to increase humidity:

Use a humidifier right next to the plant. This is the most effective method.
Place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water (ensure the pot sits above the water line).
Group it together with other humidity-loving plants to create a microclimate.
A well-lit bathroom with a window can be a perfect spot if the light is right.

Potting Mix and Planting

Because it’s an epiphyte, its roots need air and excellent drainage. A standard potting soil will hold too much water and cause root rot. You need a chunky, airy mix.

A great basic recipe you can make at home includes:

30% Orchid bark (for chunkiness and aeration)
30% Coconut coir or sphagnum moss (for moisture retention)
20% Perlite (for drainage)
20% Horticultural charcoal (to keep the mix fresh and absorb impurities)

Choose a pot with multiple drainage holes. Aroid pots, which have slits down the sides, are excellent as they provide even more air flow to the roots. Repot only when the plant is root-bound, typically every 2-3 years, and only go up one pot size.

Watering and Feeding Your Plant

Watering is where many gardeners go wrong. The goal is to keep the mix lightly moist but never soggy. Always check the soil first.

Stick your finger about an inch into the mix.
If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
Water thoroughly until it runs freely from the drainage holes.
Allow all excess water to drain away completely. Never let the plant sit in a saucer of water.

During the winter, when growth slows, you can reduce watering frequency slightly. Use room temperature water if possible, as cold water can shock the roots.

Fertilize during the active growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, liquid fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength. Apply it every 4-6 weeks. There’s no need to fertilize in the fall and winter when the plant isn’t actively growing.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even with great care, you might encounter an issue. Here’s how to troubleshoot.

Yellowing Leaves

This is often a sign of overwatering. Check your potting mix and your watering habits. Ensure the pot drains properly. Sometimes, older leaves yellow and die off naturally, which is fine if it’s just one at a time.

Brown Leaf Edges or Tips

This is classic sign of low humidity. Review the humidity tips above. It can also be caused by using water with high mineral content (tap water). Try using filtered or rainwater if brown tips persist despite good humidity.

Pests

Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. The velvety leaves can be susceptable. Regularly wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to keep them clean and allow you to inspect for pests. If you find any, treat promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Propagation Tips

You can propagate Anthurium salgarense through division or stem cuttings. Division is simpler and best done when you repot.

Gently remove the plant from its pot and brush away the potting mix.
Look for natural divisions in the root ball—separate sections that have their own growth point (a crown with leaves).
Using clean, sharp shears or your hands, carefully tease the roots apart to seperate the sections.
Pot each new division into its own container with fresh, appropriate potting mix.
Keep the new plants in a warm, humid spot and care for them as usual.

Stem cuttings can be rooted in water or sphagnum moss, but they require high humidity (often a propagation box) and patience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How rare is the Anthurium salgarense?
It is considered quite rare in cultivation. It has a limited native range and can be slow to propagate, making it less common than other Anthurium varieties.

Why are the new leaves on my salgarense not red?
Insufficient light is the most common reason. While not all specimens have intensely red new leaves, brighter indirect light will encourage better color development. Also, the color can vary a bit from plant to plant.

Can I grow this Anthurium in a terrarium?
It can be grown in a large, well-ventilated terrarium or greenhouse cabinet where high humidity is constant. Ensure there is enough air flow to prevent fungal issues and that the space is large enough for its mature size.

How fast does Anthurium salgarense grow?
Growth speed is moderate. With perfect conditions—warmth, high humidity, and good light—you might get 3-4 new leaves in a growing season. It’s not a fast grower compared to some other houseplants.

Is it pet friendly?
No. Like most aroids, Anthurium salgarense contains calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. It’s best to keep this plant out of reach of curious pets.

Caring for an Anthurium salgarense is a rewarding experience for any plant enthusiast. Its stunning apperance makes it a centerpiece of any collection. By providing the right balance of light, warmth, humidity, and a well-draining home for its roots, you can enjoy the rare and captivating beauty of this special plant for many years to come. Remember, observation is your best tool; the plant will often tell you what it needs if you pay close attention to its leaves and growth habits.