Anthurium clarinervium

Anthurium clarinervium is one of the most distinctive foliage Anthuriums, prized for its extraordinary dark green, heart-shaped leaves traced with bold silvery-white veins. Thick, almost velvety foliage gives the plant a beautifully graphic appearance, making it an especially striking choice for anyone looking beyond the more familiar flowering Anthuriums.

Supplied in a generous 14cm diameter nursery pot at approximately 40cm tall, Anthurium clarinervium already makes an impressive display. As the plant matures, new leaves can become progressively larger and more dramatic, with the contrasting vein pattern becoming particularly striking.

Light & Position

Anthurium clarinervium grows best in bright, indirect light. Choose a position with plenty of natural light but protect the leaves from prolonged strong midday sunshine, particularly through glass.

It will tolerate slightly lower light levels, although growth may be slower and new leaves may remain smaller. A bright position out of harsh direct sun will give the best balance of healthy growth and richly coloured foliage.

Watering

Allow the upper few centimetres of compost to approach dryness before watering thoroughly, then allow all excess water to drain away. Anthurium clarinervium enjoys consistent moisture while actively growing but is particularly sensitive to waterlogged compost.

If possible, use rainwater or filtered water, particularly in hard-water areas. Water less frequently during winter as growth slows, always checking the compost rather than watering to a fixed schedule.

Humidity & Temperature

Anthurium clarinervium appreciates good humidity, which helps its large leaves develop cleanly and reduces the risk of dry brown edges. A naturally humid room, grouping plants together or placing the plant near a humidifier can all help if your home is particularly dry.

Keep the plant warm and protected from cold draughts. It performs best at normal warm indoor temperatures, ideally around 18°C or above.

Feeding

Feed regularly during spring and summer while the plant is actively producing new growth. A diluted balanced houseplant feed or orchid fertiliser works well.

Reduce or stop feeding during autumn and winter when growth naturally slows.

Growth & Care

Unlike the familiar Anthuriums grown primarily for their colourful flower-like spathes, Anthurium clarinervium is grown for its spectacular foliage. New leaves emerge relatively small and soft before expanding and hardening into the thick, beautifully veined leaves for which the species is known.

Its roots appreciate plenty of air, so when repotting choose an open, free-draining aroid mix containing materials such as orchid bark and perlite rather than dense multipurpose compost. Avoid moving the plant into an excessively large pot.

Wipe the leaves gently from time to time to remove dust and keep their remarkable pattern looking its best. Avoid using leaf-shine products on the velvety foliage.

Where Does Anthurium clarinervium Come From?

Anthurium clarinervium is native to Chiapas in southern Mexico, where it occurs naturally around limestone outcrops and rocky terrain.

This natural habitat is one reason good drainage and an airy growing medium are so important when growing it indoors. Although it appreciates moisture and humidity, its roots should never be left sitting in dense, permanently wet compost.

Why You'll Love It

• Extraordinary dark green, heart-shaped leaves
• Striking silvery-white veining
• Thick, tactile foliage with an almost velvety appearance
• A sought-after foliage Anthurium for plant collectors
• Mature leaves become increasingly impressive
• Architectural enough to make a statement on its own
• A rewarding introduction to more unusual Anthurium species

Pet & Child Safety

Anthurium clarinervium is harmful if eaten and its sap can irritate the skin and eyes. Keep the plant out of reach of pets and young children, and wash your hands after pruning or handling damaged stems and leaves.

Plant Details

Botanical Name: Anthurium clarinervium
Common Name: Velvet Cardboard Anthurium / Velvet Anthurium
Family: Araceae
Native Range: Chiapas, Mexico
Nursery Pot Size: 14cm diameter
Approximate Height: Around 40cm
Fits Decorative Pot Size: 16cm
Growth Habit: Upright / clump-forming
Position: Bright, indirect light

Please note: As this is a living plant, leaf size, shape and pattern will naturally vary.