Anthurium Forgetii

If you’re looking for a truly special houseplant, the Anthurium forgetii is a rare and captivating choice. This stunning plant, with its unique, almost circular leaves, is a favorite among collectors for good reason.

Its beauty is subtle but powerful. Unlike many anthuriums, it often skips the showy flowers, letting its velvety foliage take center stage. Caring for it requires a bit of know-how, but the reward is a breathtaking piece of living art.

Let’s look at what makes this plant so special and how you can help it thrive in your home.

Native to the rainforests of Colombia, this plant is an epiphyte. In the wild, it grows on trees, not in soil. This key fact is the secret to understanding its care needs. Its leaves are its standout feature—round, with a deep, luxurious green and a texture you’ll want to touch.

What Makes It So Unique?

Several features set the Forgetii apart from other anthuriums:

Round, Peltate Leaves: The leaf stem attaches directly to the center of the leaf’s underside, creating a perfect shield shape.
Velvety Texture: The surface has a soft, almost suede-like feel that catches the light beautifully.
Prominent Veins: Silver or light green veins create a striking contrast against the dark background.
Often Flowerless: While it can produce inflorescences, it’s primarily grown for its exceptional foliage.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Recreating its natural habitat is the goal. You won’t need to mimic a full rainforest, but a few key elements are non-negotiable.

Light: Bright but Indirect

Think dappled sunlight under a jungle canopy. Direct sun will scorch those delicate leaves in minutes.

Place it near an east-facing window for gentle morning light.
A north-facing window can also work well.
If you only have south or west light, use a sheer curtain as a filter.

Humidity: The Higher, The Better

This is often the biggest challenge. Aim for 70% humidity or more. Low humidity leads to crispy, brown leaf edges.

Use a humidifier right next to the plant. This is the most effective method.
Set the pot on a pebble tray filled with water (keep the pot above the water line).
Group it with other humidity-loving plants to create a microclimate.

Temperature: Consistently Warm

Keep your home between 65°F and 80°F (18°C – 27°C). Avoid cold drafts from doors, windows, or air conditioning vents. Sudden temperature drops are a major stressor.

Planting and Potting Mix

Never use regular potting soil. It holds too much water and will suffocate the roots, leading to rot. You need a chunky, airy mix that mimics tree bark.

Here’s a simple recipe you can make at home:

30% Orchid Bark (for structure and aeration)
30% Coconut Chunks or Husk (retains moisture without sogginess)
20% Perlite or Pumice (improves drainage)
15% Sphagnum Moss (holds a bit of moisture)
5% Horticultural Charcoal (keeps the mix fresh and filters impurities)

Choose a pot with excellent drainage holes. Terracotta pots are great because they allow the mix to dry more evenly, but plastic is fine if you’re careful with watering.

Watering and Feeding Schedule

Watering is a balancing act. You want the mix to be lightly moist but never soggy.

A good rule is to water when the top layer of the mix feels dry to the touch. For many homes, this means watering about once a week. Always water thoroughly until it runs out the drainage holes, then let the pot drain completely. Never let it sit in a saucer of water.

During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your plant with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer. Use it at half strength every 4-6 weeks. In fall and winter, reduce feeding to once every 8-10 weeks or stop altogether.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even with great care, issues can pop up. Here’s how to troubleshoot.

Yellowing Leaves

This usually points to overwatering. Check the roots! Gently remove the plant from its pot. Healthy roots are firm and white or light tan. Mushy, brown, or black roots mean root rot.

Cut away all rotten roots with sterilized scissors.
Let the root system air dry for a few hours.
Repot into fresh, dry potting mix.
Hold off on watering for a few days to let it recover.

Brown Leaf Edges or Tips

This is almost always a sign of low humidity. Increase the moisture in the air around your plant using the methods we discussed earlier. Sometimes, it can also be caused by using tap water with high mineral content—try using rainwater, distilled water, or filtered water if you can.

Pests

Watch out for common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. They love the tender leaves.

Inspect your plant regularly, especially under the leaves.
If you spot pests, isolate the plant immediately.
Wipe leaves with a soft cloth dipped in a mix of water and a little mild soap.
For persistent problems, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.

Propagation: How to Make More Plants

Propagating an Anthurium forgetii is typically done by division when you repot. It’s not the fastest grower, so patience is key.

Carefully remove the plant from its pot during the active growing season.
Gently tease apart the root ball, looking for a natural division with its own growth point (a new leaf).
Using clean, sharp tools, seperate the section, ensuring it has healthy roots attached.
Pot the new division into its own container with fresh mix.
Keep it in a warm, humid spot and care for it as usual.

FAQ

Is Anthurium forgetii hard to care for?
It has specific needs (high humidity, chunky soil) but once you provide those, it’s a relatively stable plant. It’s considered intermediate level.

Why are the leaves on my forgetii so small?
Small leaves can be caused by insufficient light, low humidity, or a need for fertilizer. Check your growing conditions and adjust as needed.

How often does Anthurium forgetii flower?
It can flower, but it’s irregular and not guaranteed indoors. The flowers are typical anthurium spathe and spadix, but often greenish and less conspicuous than the leaves.

Where can I buy a genuine Anthurium forgetii?
Look for reputable specialty plant shops, online nurseries that specialize in aroids, or plant collector groups. Be prepared for a higher price tag due to its rarity.

Can I grow it in a terrarium?
Yes, a large, well-ventilated terrarium or cabinet can provide the perfect humid environment. Just ensure it has enough space for its leaves and that air doesn’t become stagnant.

With its stunning, simple beauty, the Anthurium forgetii is a testament to nature’s elegance. By giving it the right home—one with filtered light, ample moisture in the air, and a loose potting mix—you’ll be able to enjoy this remarkable plant for years to come. Remember, the key is consistency; avoid sudden changes in its environment and it will reward you with its captivating presence.