If you’re looking for a truly unique houseplant that climbs instead of trails, let me introduce you to the anthurium scandens – rare climbing houseplant. This gem is a real conversation starter, offering elegant foliage and a charming growth habit that’s different from most common vining plants.
It’s not your typical anthurium. Forget the big, flashy flowers. Anthurium scandens is all about subtle beauty and fascinating structure. Its a rewarding plant for collectors who appreciate something a little off the beaten path.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to keep your anthurium scandens thriving. We’ll cover its light needs, watering routine, and the best way to support its climbing nature.
Anthurium Scandens – Rare Climbing Houseplant
So, what makes this plant so special? Anthurium scandens is an epiphytic climber native to parts of Central and South America. In the wild, it uses its aerial roots to attach itself to tree trunks, climbing upwards towards the dappled light.
In your home, it will exhibit the same behavior. It produces long, slender stems with beautiful, elongated heart-shaped leaves. The leaves are a lush, matte green with lighter prominent veins running through them.
Its flowers are understated. They consist of a small, greenish spathe and spadix, often hidden among the foliage. The real show is the overall form and texture of the plant as it ascends a moss pole or piece of wood.
Essential Care Requirements for Healthy Growth
Caring for anthurium scandens isn’t complicated, but it does have specific preferences. Getting these basics right is the key to a happy, climbing plant.
Light: Finding the Sweet Spot
This plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Think of the light under a tree canopy.
- Avoid direct afternoon sun, which can scorch its leaves.
- A north or east-facing window is often ideal.
- If you only have a south or west window, use a sheer curtain to filter the light.
- Too little light will result in slow growth and leggy stems.
Watering: The Balance is Key
As an epiphyte, its roots need air and moisture but hate soggy conditions. Overwatering is the fastest way to run into problems.
- Water thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches of the potting mix feel dry.
- Allow excess water to drain completely—never let it sit in a saucer of water.
- It appreciates higher humidity but can adapt to average home levels. A pebble tray or occasional misting helps.
- In winter, reduce watering frequency as growth slows.
Soil and Potting: The Foundation
The right potting mix is crucial for healthy roots. It must be airy and well-draining.
- A good mix is equal parts orchid bark, perlite, and indoor potting soil.
- You can also use a pre-made aroid mix.
- Choose a pot with excellent drainage holes. Terracotta pots are great because they wick away extra moisture.
- Repot every 2-3 years, or when you see roots circling the pot’s bottom.
How to Support Its Climbing Habit
To really showcase its natural form, you need to give it something to climb. This mimics its native environment and encourages larger, healthier leaves.
The best support is a moss pole or a slab of cork bark or tree fern fiber. The plant’s aerial roots will attach to the moist, textured surface.
- Choose a support that is tall enough for future growth.
- Insert it into the pot carefully when repotting, or gently next to an established plant.
- Use soft plant ties or strips of old nylon to loosely attach the main stems to the support initially.
- Keep the support slightly moist when you water. This encourages the aerial roots to latch on.
- As it grows, continue to gently secure new growth.
Propagation: Sharing Your Rare Plant
You can propagate anthurium scandens through stem cuttings. It’s a rewarding way to create new plants for yourself or to trade with other enthusiasts.
- In spring or summer, identify a healthy stem with at least one node (the bump where leaves and roots grow from).
- Using a clean, sharp knife or scissors, cut just below a node.
- You can root the cutting in water or directly in a moist sphagnum moss/perlite mix.
- If using water, place the cutting in a glass so only the node is submerged. Change the water weekly.
- Once roots are a few inches long (for water propagation) or you see new growth (for moss), pot it up in your regular aroid mix.
Common Problems and Simple 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 soil moisture. If it’s wet, let it dry out more between waterings. It could also indicate a need for fertilizer during the growing season.
Brown Leaf Tips or Edges
Usually caused by low humidity or a buildup of salts and minerals from tap water. Try using distilled, rainwater, or filtered water. Increase local humidity around the plant.
Leggy Growth with Small Leaves
This means the plant isn’t getting enough light. Gradually move it to a brighter location. Also, ensure it has a proper climbing support, as this encourages better leaf size.
Pests
Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale. Wipe leaves regularly and inspect new growth. Treat infestations early with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Fertilizing for Lush Growth
Feed your anthurium scandens during its active growing season (spring and summer).
- Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (like a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20) diluted to half strength.
- Fertilize once a month. You can also use a slow-release fertilizer sprinkled on the soil surface in spring.
- Do not fertilize in the fall and winter when the plant is resting.
- Always water the soil lightly before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn.
FAQ About Anthurium Scandens
Is anthurium scandens really rare?
While becoming more popular, it is still less common than pothos or philodendron. You’ll likely find it through specialty online plant shops or local plant swaps.
How fast does anthurium scandens grow?
Growth is moderate. With good light, proper support, and consistent care, you can expect several new leaves each growing season.
Can anthurium scandens grow in low light?
It can survive in lower light, but growth will be very slow and leggy. For the best results, provide bright, indirect light.
Is it pet friendly?
Like many anthuriums, it contains calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic if ingested. It’s best to keep it out of reach of curious pets and children.
Why are my anthurium scandens leaves curling?
Leaf curl is often a sign of underwatering, low humidity, or too much direct light. Check your care conditions and adjust accordingly.
Should I mist my anthurium scandens?
Misting can help with humidity, but it’s not a complete solution and can sometimes promote fungal issues if overdone. A pebble tray or a room humidifier is often more effective and consistent.
Final Thoughts on This Unique Climber
The anthurium scandens is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to add a unique textural element to their plant collection. Its climbing habit makes it a wonderful vertical accent, perfect for smaller spaces where you want to draw the eye upward.
With its straightforward care needs and resilient nature, it’s a great step into the world of more unusual aroids. Remember, the most important things are a chunky, well-draining mix, careful watering, and providing that essential support for it to climb. Give it those, and you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful, growing specimen for years to come.