If you’re looking for a truly unique houseplant that stands out from the common pothos and philodendron, look no further. The anthurium brownii is a rare tropical houseplant that captures the attention of every collector who sees it.
Its dramatic, elongated leaves have a thick, almost leathery texture. The deep green color and prominent, light-colored veins make it a stunning visual piece. While it can be a bit more demanding than some plants, its striking appearance is well worth the extra care.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to keep your Anthurium brownii thriving.
Anthurium Brownii
Unlike the familiar flowering anthuriums with their bright red spathes, Anthurium brownii is primarily grown for its spectacular foliage. It’s a terrestrial or epiphytic plant, meaning in the wild it can grow on the ground or on other plants. It belongs to the large Araceae family.
Its most distinctive feature is its elongated, lance-shaped leaves. They can grow quite large in optimal conditions, sometimes reaching over two feet in length. The leaves emerge a bright, coppery green before maturing to a deep, glossy green.
The raised, silvery-white veins create a beautiful contrast, making each leaf look like a piece of natural art.
Ideal Growing Conditions
Getting the environment right is the key to success with this plant. It needs conditions that mimic its native tropical rainforest habitat.
Light Requirements
Anthurium brownii prefers bright, indirect light. Think of the dappled sunlight that filters through the canopy of tall trees.
- A spot near an east-facing window is often perfect.
- A few feet back from a south or west window, protected by a sheer curtain, also works well.
- Direct sun will scorch and yellow its beautiful leaves.
- Too little light will lead to slow growth and leggy, weak stems.
Temperature & Humidity
This is where the plant shows its tropical nature. Consistent warmth and high humidity are non-negotiable.
- Temperature: Keep it between 65°F and 80°F (18°C – 27°C). Avoid drafts, sudden temperature drops, and placing it near heating or cooling vents.
- Humidity: Aim for 60% humidity or higher. Most homes are drier than this, especially in winter, so you’ll likely need to make adjustments.
To increase humidity, you can use a humidifier, place the pot on a pebble tray with water, or group it with other humidity-loving plants. A bathroom with a window can be a great location if the light is right.
Plant Care and Maintenance
With the right setting, daily and weekly care becomes much simpler. Here’s how to tend to your plant’s basic needs.
Watering Your Anthurium Brownii
Overwatering is the fastest way to harm this plant. It likes moisture but despises soggy, waterlogged roots.
- Use the finger test. Stick your finger about 2 inches into the soil.
- If the top 2 inches feel dry, it’s time to water.
- Water thoroughly until it runs out the drainage holes.
- Always empty the saucer or cache pot after 15 minutes so the plant isn’t sitting in water.
- Reduce watering frequency in the winter when growth slows.
Using lukewarm, filtered, or rainwater is ideal, as the plant can be sensitive to chemicals and salts in tap water.
Soil and Potting Mix
A well-draining, airy, and slightly acidic mix is essential. A standard potting soil alone is too dense and will retain to much moisture.
A good recipe is:
- 1 part high-quality indoor potting mix
- 1 part orchid bark (for aeration and drainage)
- 1 part perlite or pumice
- A handful of horticultural charcoal (to keep the mix fresh)
This combination allows water to flow through freely while retaining some moisture and giving the roots plenty of air.
Fertilizing for Growth
Feed your plant during its active growing season (spring and summer). A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength is perfect.
- Fertilize once a month from April to September.
- Do not fertilize in the fall and winter, as the plant is resting.
- Over-fertilizing can burn the roots and cause leaf tip burn, so less is more.
Common Problems and Solutions
Even with great care, you might encounter an issue. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems.
Yellowing Leaves
This is often a sign of overwatering. Check the soil moisture and ensure your pot has drainage holes. If the roots are mushy and brown (root rot), you’ll need to repot the plant into fresh, dry mix, trimming away any rotten roots first.
Yellow leaves can also indicate a nutrient deficiency or too much direct sun.
Brown Leaf Tips or Edges
This is usually a humidity issue. The air is to dry for the plant. Increase the humidity around your anthurium brownii using the methods mentioned earlier. Brown tips can also come from using water with high fluoride or chlorine content.
Pests
Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. They love the large leaves.
- Wipe leaves regularly with a damp cloth to deter pests and keep the pores clean.
- If you see pests, isolate the plant and treat it immediately with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Propagation and Repotting
You can create new plants from your mature Anthurium brownii through division. This is best done when you are repotting.
- Gently remove the plant from its pot.
- Carefully tease apart the root ball, identifying natural divisions with at least a few leaves and healthy roots attached.
- Use a clean, sharp knife to seperate the sections if necessary.
- Pot each new division into its own container with fresh potting mix.
- Water lightly and provide high humidity as the new plants establish.
Repot your plant every 2-3 years, or when you see roots growing out of the drainage holes. Only go up one pot size (1-2 inches larger in diameter) to prevent excess soil from staying wet too long.
FAQ
Is the Anthurium brownii plant pet-friendly?
No. Like most aroids, Anthurium brownii contains calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. It can cause oral irritation and digestive upset. Keep it out of reach of pets.
Why are the new leaves on my brownii so small?
Small new leaves often indicate the plant isn’t getting enough light or nutrients. Ensure it’s in bright, indirect light and that you’re feeding it appropriately during the growing season. Sometimes a plant just needs time to mature, too.
How often should I mist my Anthurium brownii?
Misting provides only a very temporary boost in humidity and can promote fungal leaf diseases if water sits in the crown. Using a humidifier or a pebble tray is a much more effective and safer method for maintaining high humidity.
Can I grow Anthurium brownii in a terrarium?
Yes, its need for humidity makes it a good candidate for large, open terrariums or paludariums. Ensure there is excellent air circulation to prevent mold, and provide bright, indirect light. The confined space means you’ll need to water less frequently.
Where can I buy a genuine Anthurium brownii?
Due to its rarity, you won’t find it at most standard garden centers. Look for specialized tropical plant nurseries, reputable online plant shops, or plant collector communities on social media and forums. Always check the seller’s reviews.