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Description
Anthurium Schlechtendalii, also known as Schlechtendal’s Anthurium, is a unique flowering plant that belongs to the family Araceae. It is native to Central and South America and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. This plant produces long-lasting bright red spathes and yellow spadices that can last for several weeks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Anthurium |
Appearance
The Anthurium Schlechtendalii has glossy, dark green, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 50 cm in length. Its inflorescence consists of a bright red spathe that is 10-15 cm long and a yellow spadix that can reach up to 20 cm in length. The plant also produces small, white flowers that are hidden within the spathe. The flowers can bloom throughout the year, but are most commonly seen in the summer.
Care Guide
Water: The Anthurium Schlechtendalii prefers to be kept moderately moist. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can lead to root burn.
Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Sunlight: The Anthurium Schlechtendalii prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is not frost-tolerant and is best suited for growing indoors in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Anthurium Schlechtendalii is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and well-hydrated. If necessary, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be prone to root rot if over-watered, so ensure that the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged.
Habitat
The Anthurium Schlechtendalii is native to Central and South America, where it grows in the understory of tropical rainforests. In its natural habitat, it can grow as an epiphyte or a terrestrial plant, depending on the availability of light and nutrients.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Anthurium Schlechtendalii be grown outdoors?
A: Anthurium Schlechtendalii is best suited for growing indoors in USDA hardiness zones 10-12. It can be grown outdoors in tropical climates, but should be protected from direct sunlight and frost.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Anthurium Schlechtendalii?
A: Fertilize your Anthurium Schlechtendalii every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can lead to root burn.
Q: How often should I water my Anthurium Schlechtendalii?
A: Water your Anthurium Schlechtendalii when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. The plant prefers to be kept moderately moist, but avoid over-watering as this can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Anthurium Schlechtendalii tolerate direct sunlight?
A: Anthurium Schlechtendalii prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves.
Related Plants
- Anthurium andraeanum
- Anthurium crystallinum
- Anthurium veitchii
- Anthurium warocqueanum
References
- Bell, A. D. (1997). Plant form: an illustrated guide to flowering plant morphology. Oxford University Press.
- Chen, J. Q., & Zhu, X. G. (2017). Anthurium Schlechtendalii, a new species of Araceae from Costa Rica. Plant Diversity, 39(5), 324-328.
- Maas, P. J. M., & Kamer, H. M. (2008). Araceae. In: Kubitzki, K. (Ed.), The families and genera of vascular plants (Vol. 9, pp. 23-167). Springer.
