Anthurium Pendulifolium

If you’re looking for a truly unique hanging plant, your search might end with the anthurium pendulifolium. This rare hanging leaf beauty is a spectacular epiphyte that offers a dramatic look quite different from its more common relatives.

With its long, ribbon-like leaves that cascade down, it creates a stunning vertical display. It’s a plant that commands attention and is perfect for experienced growers wanting something special. Let’s look at how to care for this remarkable species.

Unlike the familiar flamingo flower with its glossy heart-shaped leaves, the Anthurium pendulifolium is all about length and movement. Its name gives you a clue: ‘penduli’ refers to its hanging, pendulous growth habit.

This plant is native to the rainforests of Ecuador and Peru, where it grows on trees. It’s not the easiest plant to find, but its striking appearance makes the hunt worthwhile.

What Makes Its Leaves So Special?

The leaves are the main attraction. They can grow remarkably long, often reaching 3 to 4 feet or even more in ideal conditions.

Shape: They are narrow, strap-like, and have a leathery texture.
Color: The foliage is a deep, matte green with prominent lighter-colored veins running the length of the leaf.
Growth Pattern: New leaves emerge from the center and gradually arch over, creating a beautiful fountain-like effect as they mature and hang down.

It’s a slow grower, so patience is key. Each new leaf feels like a significant achievement, adding to the impressive curtain of foliage.

Ideal Growing Conditions

To keep your Anthurium pendulifolium healthy, you need to mimic its natural rainforest canopy home. Getting the basics right is crucial for this rare species.

Light Requirements

This plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Think of the dappled sunlight under a forest canopy.

Avoid direct sun, which will quickly scorch and yellow its long leaves.
A north or east-facing window is often perfect. If you only have south or west light, use a sheer curtain to filter it.
It can tolerate medium light, but growth will be even slower.

Temperature & Humidity

This is where the Anthurium pendulifolium shows its tropical needs. It prefers consistent warmth and high humidity.

Temperature: Keep it between 65°F and 80°F (18°C – 27°C). Avoid drafts and sudden temperature drops below 60°F (15°C).
Humidity: Aim for 60% humidity or higher. This is non-negotiable for healthy growth.

Low humidity will cause the leaf tips to turn brown and crispy. To increase humidity, you can use a humidifier, place the pot on a pebble tray with water, or group it with other plants.

Planting and Potting Mix

As an epiphyte, its roots need air and excellent drainage. A standard potting soil will suffocate it and lead to root rot.

Use a very chunky, airy aroid mix. You can make your own by combining:

Orchid bark (40%)
Perlite (30%)
Coconut coir or sphagnum moss (20%)
Charcoal (10%)

Choose a pot with excellent drainage holes. A terracotta pot can help wick away extra moisture, which is beneficial. Because it’s a hanging plant, ensure the pot is securely mounted or placed.

Watering and Feeding Routine

Your watering schedule will depend on your home’s conditions, but the goal is to keep the mix lightly moist, never soggy.

How to Water Correctly

Check the top few inches of the potting mix with your finger.
Water thoroughly when the top layer feels dry.
Allow water to flow freely out the drainage holes, and empty the cachepot or saucer afterward.
Reduce watering slightly in the winter when growth slows.

Overwatering is the fastest way to lose this plant. If in doubt, it’s better to wait another day.

Fertilizing for Growth

Feed your plant during the active growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.

Apply it once a month.
Do not fertilize in the fall and winter.
A light feeding is better than a strong dose, which can burn the sensitive roots.

Pruning and Maintenance

Pruning is mostly about aesthetics and plant health for the Anthurium pendulifolium. You don’t need to prune it for shape.

Use clean, sharp scissors to remove any leaves that have yellowed or died back completely.
You can also trim any leaf tips that have turned brown due to low humidity, cutting following the natural leaf shape.
Regularly wipe the long leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust, which helps the plant breathe and photosynthesize efficiently.

How to Propagate Your Plant

Propagation is typically done by division when you repot. This is the most reliable method for this species.

Gently remove the plant from its pot during spring.
Carefully separate a section of the plant that has its own roots and at least one or two growing points.
Pot the new division in its own container with fresh aroid mix.
Keep it in a warm, humid spot and water lightly until you see new growth, which indicates the roots have established.

Seed propagation is possible but extremely slow and challenging, usually left to specialist growers.

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 the roots for rot (they should be firm and white/tan, not mushy and brown). If root rot is present, trim the bad roots and repot in fresh, dry mix.

Brown Leaf Tips

This is almost always caused by low humidity. Increase the moisture in the air around your plant using the methods mentioned earlier.

Pests

Watch for common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. They can hide on the long leaves. Treat infestations early with insecticidal soap or neem oil, wiping the leaves carefully.

FAQ

Is Anthurium pendulifolium toxic?
Yes, like all anthuriums, it contains calcium oxalate crystals and is toxic if ingested by pets or people. Keep it out of reach.

How fast does the hanging anthurium grow?
It is considered a slow-growing plant. You might only see a few new leaves per year under good conditions.

Why are my pendulifolium’s leaves not getting long?
Insufficient light is a common cause. While it shouldn’t get direct sun, too little light will stunt growth. Ensure it’s in bright, indirect light.

Can I grow this rare anthurium in a terrarium?
Due to its eventual large, hanging size, it is not suitable for most terrariums. It’s best grown as a free-hanging or high shelf specimen.

Where can I buy one of these rare hanging plants?
Check with specialty online plant shops, rare plant auctions, or local plant society sales. They are not typically found in standard garden centers.

Caring for an Anthurium pendulifolium is a rewarding commitment. Its unique beauty lies in its elegant, trailing leaves that create a living sculpture. By providing the right balance of humidity, light, and a well-draining home, you can enjoy this exceptional plant for many years. Remember to check it’s leaves regularly for signs of its needs, and adjust your care as necessary. With a little attention, this rare hanging leaf beauty will thrive.