Anthurium Care Guide
Aroid family
Anthuriums bring tropical elegance to any space with their glossy foliage and long-lasting, vibrant blooms that seem almost artificial in their perfection. These conversation starters reward attentive care with nearly continuous flowering, making them ideal for plant enthusiasts seeking a striking centerpiece that offers both beautiful foliage and exotic flowers year-round.
🛍️ Essential Products for Anthurium Success
Based on expert testing, these products will help your Anthurium thrive.
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Light
Bright, indirect light mimicking filtered rainforest canopy conditions
Water
Water when top 1-2 inches of soil dry out, typically once per week
Temperature
65-85°F (18-29°C)
Humidity
60-80% ideal, minimum 50%
📖 Complete Care Guide
Anthurium Clarinervium Care Guide: Complete Growing Instructions
Overview
Anthurium clarinervium is a moderate to intermediate difficulty plant that features stunning heart-shaped leaves with prominent white veining, making it one of the most sought-after velvet-leaf Anthuriums. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to successfully grow and maintain your Anthurium clarinervium.
Light Requirements
Ideal Conditions
- Light Type: Bright, indirect light
- Intensity: Medium to bright filtered light (1000-2500 foot candles)
- Duration: 10-12 hours daily
- Best Placement: East or North-facing window, or 3-5 feet from South/West window with sheer curtains
Signs of Light Issues
- Too Much Light: Yellowing leaves, bleached appearance, crispy brown patches, loss of velvet texture
- Too Little Light: Slow growth, smaller leaves, longer petioles, loss of white vein contrast
- Solutions: Adjust distance from window, use sheer curtains for filtering, consider grow lights during winter months
Watering Guide
Watering Schedule
- Growing Season (Spring/Summer): Water when top 2 inches of soil are dry (typically every 5-7 days)
- Dormant Season (Fall/Winter): Water when top 3-4 inches are dry (typically every 10-14 days)
- Check Method: Insert finger 2-3 inches into soil or use a moisture meter reading 3-4
Watering Technique
- Method: Deep watering until water runs through drainage holes
- Amount: Water thoroughly until 10-20% runoff is achieved
- Water Type: Room temperature filtered, rainwater, or distilled water preferred
- Drainage: Essential - never let plant sit in standing water
Watering Problems
- Overwatering Signs: Yellow leaves starting from bottom, black spots, mushy stems, fungal growth
- Underwatering Signs: Crispy brown leaf edges, wilting, curled leaves, stunted growth
- Recovery Tips: Adjust watering frequency, check root health, improve drainage if needed
Soil Requirements
Soil Composition
- Base Mix: Chunky, well-draining aroid mix
- Custom Recipe: 30% orchid bark, 20% perlite, 20% coco coir, 15% charcoal, 15% worm castings
- Commercial Alternative: Premium aroid mix or orchid mix amended with perlite
- pH Level: 6.0-7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Soil Maintenance
- Refresh Frequency: Top dress annually, full replacement every 2-3 years
- Signs to Replace: Soil compaction, salt buildup, foul odor, poor drainage
- Amendments: Add orchid bark and perlite to improve drainage; worm castings for nutrients
Temperature & Humidity
Temperature Ranges
- Optimal Range: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
- Minimum Safe: 60°F (15°C)
- Maximum Safe: 85°F (29°C)
- Temperature Fluctuations: Prefers stable temperatures; avoid drafts and sudden changes
Humidity Management
- Ideal Humidity: 70-80%
- Minimum Acceptable: 60%
- How to Increase: Use humidifier, pebble trays, group with other plants, mist around plant (not on leaves)
- Monitoring: Use digital hygrometer placed near plant for accurate readings
Fertilization Program
Fertilizer Schedule
- Growing Season: Every 2-3 weeks with diluted liquid fertilizer
- Dormant Season: Monthly or suspend feeding entirely
- Type: Balanced liquid fertilizer (20-20-20) or specialized aroid fertilizer
- Strength: Dilute to 1/4 to 1/2 recommended strength
Application Method
- Technique: Apply to moist soil to prevent root burn
- Timing: Morning feeding allows better nutrient uptake
- Signs of Over-fertilization: Brown leaf tips, salt crust on soil, stunted growth
- Recovery: Flush soil with water, skip next 2-3 feedings, remove damaged foliage
Pruning & Maintenance
Regular Maintenance
- Frequency: As needed, typically monthly inspection
- Tools Needed: Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears
- Sterilization: 70% isopropyl alcohol or 10% bleach solution between cuts
What to Prune
- Dead/Dying Parts: Remove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base of the petiole
- Shape Control: Remove outer leaves to maintain compact shape if desired
- Size Management: Not typically needed as this is a naturally compact plant
- Timing: Best done during active growing season (spring/summer)
Post-Pruning Care
- Wound Treatment: Allow cuts to callus naturally; dust with cinnamon if concerned about infection
- Recovery Period: Reduce watering slightly for 1 week after major pruning
Repotting Guide
Repotting Schedule
- Frequency: Every 2-3 years or when rootbound
- Best Time: Early spring at start of growing season
- Signs to Repot: Roots circling pot, water runs straight through, stunted growth
Repotting Process
- Preparation: Water 1-2 days before repotting, gather supplies
- Pot Size: Increase by 1-2 inches maximum to prevent overwatering
- Root Care: Gently loosen roots, trim any dead/rotted sections
- Planting: Center plant, backfill with fresh mix, don't bury crown
- After Care: Keep in bright indirect light, wait 3-5 days before watering
Pot Selection
- Material: Terracotta or ceramic with good weight for stability
- Drainage: Multiple drainage holes essential
- Size Guidelines: Wide rather than deep; 1-2 inches larger than root ball
Seasonal Care Calendar
Spring (March-May)
- Begin regular fertilization schedule, increase watering frequency, repot if needed, watch for new growth
Summer (June-August)
- Maintain consistent moisture, monitor for pests, ensure adequate humidity, provide bright filtered light
Fall (September-November)
- Reduce fertilization frequency, begin decreasing water, clean leaves monthly, prepare for dormancy
Winter (December-February)
- Minimal fertilization, water sparingly, maintain humidity above 60%, protect from cold drafts
Pro Tips for Success
- Position your Anthurium clarinervium on a humidity tray filled with LECA balls for consistent moisture
- Rotate the plant 90 degrees weekly to ensure even growth and leaf development
- The velvet texture of leaves makes them prone to water marks - water at soil level only
- New leaves emerge reddish-bronze before maturing to deep green with white veins
- This Anthurium rarely flowers indoors, but when it does, the spathe is usually green or purple
Tools & Supplies Checklist
- [ ] Moisture meter for accurate watering
- [ ] Humidifier or humidity tray
- [ ] Quality aroid potting mix
- [ ] Balanced liquid fertilizer
- [ ] Clean pruning shears
- [ ] Breathable pots with drainage
Monthly Care Reminder
Use this checklist to stay on track with your Anthurium clarinervium care:
- [ ] Check soil moisture
- [ ] Inspect for pests/diseases
- [ ] Clean leaves (if applicable)
- [ ] Rotate plant for even growth
- [ ] Monitor environmental conditions
- [ ] Document growth/changes
Last updated: 2025-06-25 Difficulty Level: Moderate to Intermediate Estimated time commitment: 15-30 minutes per week
🌱 Recommended Fertilizers for Anthurium
Keep your Anthurium thriving with these expert-recommended fertilizers.

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Buy Now🪴 Recommended Soil Mixes for Anthurium
Give your Anthurium the perfect growing medium with these soil mixes.

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Buy Now💡 Pro Care Tips for Anthurium
Expert tips to help your Anthurium thrive and reach its full potential.
Position your Anthurium clarinervium on a humidity tray filled with LECA balls for consistent moisture
Rotate the plant 90 degrees weekly to ensure even growth and leaf development
The velvet texture of leaves makes them prone to water marks - water at soil level only
New leaves emerge reddish-bronze before maturing to deep green with white veins
This Anthurium rarely flowers indoors, but when it does, the spathe is usually green or purple
East or North-facing window, or 3-5 feet from South/West window with sheer curtains
🚨 Common Problems & Solutions for Anthurium
Identify and solve common issues to keep your Anthurium healthy and beautiful.
Leaf Issues
Yellowing Leaves
Symptoms: Leaves turning yellow starting from the edges or developing yellow patches, often beginning with older leaves at the base of the plant Common Causes:
- Overwatering leading to root stress and nutrient lockout
- Natural aging of older leaves (normal if limited to 1-2 leaves)
- Nutrient deficiency, particularly nitrogen or magnesium
Solutions:
- Check soil moisture and adjust watering schedule - allow top 2 inches to dry between waterings
- Remove yellowed leaves cleanly at the base to redirect energy to healthy growth
- Apply diluted balanced fertilizer (1/4 strength) monthly during growing season
Prevention: Maintain consistent watering schedule, ensure proper drainage, and feed regularly during spring and summer months
Brown/Crispy Leaves
Symptoms: Leaf edges turning brown and crispy, brown spots developing on leaves, or entire leaf tips browning Common Causes:
- Low humidity (below 50%) causing moisture loss through leaves
- Fluoride or chlorine in tap water causing chemical burn
- Direct sunlight exposure causing leaf scorch
Solutions:
- Increase humidity to 60-70% using a humidifier or pebble tray
- Switch to filtered or distilled water, or let tap water sit 24 hours before use
- Move plant away from direct sunlight to bright, indirect light location
Prevention: Maintain humidity above 60%, use quality water, and position in filtered light away from windows
Drooping/Wilting
Symptoms: Leaves hanging down limply, stems bending, overall plant appearing deflated despite moist soil Common Causes:
- Underwatering causing dehydration and cell collapse
- Root rot from overwatering preventing water uptake
- Temperature stress from cold drafts or heat sources
Solutions:
- Water thoroughly if soil is dry, ensuring water drains from bottom holes
- Check roots for rot - trim damaged roots and repot in fresh, well-draining mix
- Move plant to stable temperature location between 65-80°F (18-27°C)
Prevention: Water when top 2 inches of soil are dry, use chunky aroid mix, maintain consistent temperatures
Leaf Drop
Symptoms: Leaves yellowing then dropping off, multiple leaves falling in short period, new growth dropping prematurely Common Causes:
- Sudden environmental changes (temperature, light, or location)
- Severe pest infestation weakening the plant
- Root problems preventing nutrient and water uptake
Solutions:
- Minimize environmental changes and acclimate plant gradually to new conditions
- Inspect thoroughly for pests and treat immediately if found
- Check root health and repot if necessary with fresh soil
Prevention: Maintain stable environment, regular pest inspections, and proper watering practices
Growth Issues
Stunted Growth
Symptoms: No new leaves for several months, smaller than normal leaf size, slow overall development Common Causes:
- Insufficient light preventing photosynthesis
- Root bound plant with no room for expansion
- Nutrient depletion in old soil
Solutions:
- Move to brighter location with indirect light or add grow light
- Repot in container 2 inches larger with fresh aroid mix
- Begin regular fertilization schedule with balanced liquid fertilizer
Prevention: Provide bright indirect light, repot every 2-3 years, maintain regular feeding schedule
Leggy/Stretching Growth
Symptoms: Long stems between leaves, plant leaning toward light source, sparse foliage appearance Common Causes:
- Insufficient light causing plant to stretch toward light source
- Overcrowding with other plants competing for light
- Natural growth pattern needing support
Solutions:
- Relocate to brighter spot or supplement with full-spectrum grow light
- Give plant adequate space and rotate weekly for even growth
- Provide moss pole or stake for climbing support
Prevention: Ensure adequate bright indirect light, rotate plant regularly, provide climbing support early
Pest Problems
Spider Mites
Identification: Tiny red/brown dots on undersides of leaves, fine webbing between leaves and stems Damage Signs: Stippled yellow dots on leaves, overall dusty appearance, leaf drop Treatment:
- Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil solution weekly
- Wipe leaves with damp cloth to remove mites and webbing
- Isolate infected plant and treat surrounding plants preventatively Prevention: Maintain humidity above 60%, regular leaf cleaning, quarantine new plants
Thrips
Identification: Tiny slender insects (1-2mm), silver/bronze streaks on leaves Damage Signs: Silvery trails on leaves, distorted new growth, flower damage Treatment:
- Apply systemic insecticide or spinosad spray
- Use blue sticky traps to catch adult thrips
- Remove heavily damaged leaves and dispose in sealed bag Prevention: Regular inspection of new growth, maintain good air circulation, remove debris
Scale Insects
Identification: Brown/white oval bumps on stems and leaves, sticky honeydew residue Damage Signs: Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, sooty mold on honeydew Treatment:
- Remove scales manually with alcohol-soaked cotton swab
- Apply horticultural oil or neem oil to suffocate remaining scales
- Treat systemically with imidacloprid for severe infestations Prevention: Quarantine new plants, regular inspection of stems and leaf undersides
Disease Issues
Bacterial Blight
Symptoms: Water-soaked spots turning brown/black, yellow halos around spots, rapid spread Causes: High humidity combined with poor air circulation, overhead watering Treatment:
- Remove all affected leaves immediately and dispose
- Apply copper-based bactericide to remaining foliage
- Improve air circulation and reduce humidity temporarily Prevention: Water at soil level, ensure good air flow, avoid overcrowding plants
Fungal Leaf Spot
Symptoms: Circular brown spots with darker borders, spots may have concentric rings Causes: Fungal spores spread by water splash, high humidity environments Treatment:
- Remove infected leaves and apply fungicide spray
- Reduce watering frequency and avoid wetting leaves
- Increase spacing between plants for better airflow Prevention: Water early in day, maintain air circulation, keep leaves dry
Root Problems
Root Rot
Symptoms: Yellowing leaves despite moist soil, foul odor from soil, mushy stem base Identification: Roots appear brown/black and mushy instead of white and firm Treatment:
- Remove from pot and trim all affected roots with sterile scissors
- Treat remaining roots with hydrogen peroxide solution
- Repot in fresh, sterile, well-draining aroid mix Prevention: Use chunky, well-draining soil mix, ensure pots have drainage holes, never let plant sit in water
Root Bound
Symptoms: Roots circling pot bottom, growing through drainage holes, water runs straight through Identification: Tight root mass when removed from pot, minimal soil visible Treatment:
- Gently tease apart root ball to encourage outward growth
- Repot in container 2 inches larger diameter
- Trim any dead or excessively long roots before repotting Prevention: Repot every 2-3 years, choose appropriate pot size, monitor drainage speed
Environmental Stress
Temperature Shock
Symptoms: Sudden leaf drop, blackened leaves, wilting despite proper watering Causes: Exposure to temperatures below 55°F or above 90°F, cold drafts Treatment: Move to stable temperature location, remove damaged foliage, reduce watering temporarily Prevention: Keep away from AC vents, heaters, and drafty windows, maintain 65-80°F range
Humidity Issues
Low Humidity Symptoms: Brown crispy leaf edges, slow growth, increased pest susceptibility High Humidity Symptoms: Fungal growth, soft spots on leaves, bacterial infections Solutions: Use humidifier for low humidity, increase air circulation for high humidity Prevention: Maintain 60-70% humidity with good air movement, use humidity meter
Light Stress
Too Much Light: Bleached or yellow leaves, brown scorch marks, crispy texture Too Little Light: Pale green leaves, leggy growth, small new leaves Solutions: Adjust position relative to window, use sheer curtains for filtering, supplement with grow lights Prevention: Provide bright indirect light, avoid direct sun exposure, monitor leaf color
Quick Diagnostic Guide
Emergency Symptoms
Symptom | Likely Cause | Immediate Action |
---|---|---|
Entire plant wilting | Severe dehydration or root rot | Check soil moisture and roots immediately |
Black mushy stems | Bacterial infection or severe overwatering | Remove affected parts, treat with bactericide |
Sudden mass leaf drop | Temperature shock or chemical exposure | Check environment, flush soil if chemical suspected |
White fuzzy growth | Powdery mildew or mealybugs | Isolate and treat with appropriate pesticide |
When to Seek Help
- Multiple problems occurring simultaneously despite proper care
- Rapid decline over 24-48 hours with no obvious cause
- Suspected viral infection with mosaic patterns on leaves
Prevention Checklist
- [ ] Check soil moisture twice weekly with finger test
- [ ] Maintain humidity between 60-70% with hygrometer
- [ ] Inspect for pests during weekly watering
- [ ] Clean leaves monthly to prevent dust buildup
- [ ] Rotate plant quarter turn weekly for even growth
- [ ] Feed with diluted fertilizer monthly in growing season
Recovery Timeline
Week 1: Remove damaged foliage, address immediate environmental issues, begin treatment Week 2-3: Monitor for new growth signs, continue treatments, maintain stable conditions Month 1+: Expect new leaf emergence, gradually return to normal care routine, watch for relapse
Remember: Most Anthurium clarinervium problems are preventable with proper care. When in doubt, adjust watering first, then light conditions.