Anthurium Crystallinum is a beautiful, low-maintenance plant that stands out with its velvety foliage with air-purifying abilities.
Anthurium Crystallinum is a distinct variety that is loved for its velvety, colorful leaves. It grows well indoors and becomes a beautiful houseplant with air-purifying properties. Read more and learn how to care for this plant in your home.
Common Names: Crystal anthurium, Crystal laceleaf
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Anthurium Crystallinum Information
Also known as the Crystal Anthurium or Strap Flower. This exotic plant is a member of the Anthurium genus, which is part of the Araceae or Arum plant family.
Anthurium crystallinum stands out from its plant relatives due to its unique features. Its large heart-shaped velvety leaves that can grow up to 18 inches have coppery-red undersides, and the silver-white veins on the foliage add to its beauty.
This plant is native to tropical areas and does well in similar conditions. In its natural habitat, it tends to climb structures to avoid competition and reach for sunlight.
Anthurium crystallinum contains calcium oxalate crystals, making it harmful to humans and pets. If any part of the plant is ingested, these crystals can cause mouth and bowel irritation. The invisible, rough crystals can also irritate the skin. It’s important to handle this plant with care and keep it out of reach of pets and children.
Like other plants in the Araceae family, the Crystal Anthurium also produces flowers. Although it doesn’t flower frequently, especially indoors, when it does, the blooms are rather simple, resembling slim, stringy Peace Lily flowers in shades ranging from brown to purple. While the Crystal Anthurium can bloom throughout the year in optimal conditions, its foliage is the main attraction due to its rarity and unique beauty.
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How to Propagate Anthurium crystallinum
Stem Cuttings
Propagating from stem cuttings is possibly the simplest way to expand your plant collection, and it comes with several benefits. This method allows you to propagate multiple times, take several cuttings simultaneously, and reduces the risk of shocking the plant when done correctly.
All you need for this method is a healthy, robust stem and a sharp, clean knife. Opt for healthy stems for the best results, as they produce strong new plants. When cutting the stem, make the cut just below the node – the point where a leaf meets the main stem.
Crystal Anthurium cuttings flourish when rooted in soil. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone before planting to encourage root growth. Ensure you use the right soil mixture, such as a combination of vermiculite, perlite, and coconut coir, as it provides good drainage and minimal resistance to new root growth.
Place your cuttings in a warm, humid location for optimal root growth. Once the roots have grown to about 1-2 inches, the cuttings are ready for their new pots. Use the appropriate pot size and soil mix for your new plant.
Division
Root division is a simple process, though it can get messy. It’s advisable to choose this method when you’re ready to repot your Crystal Anthurium to avoid shocking the plant.
When your Anthurium crystallinum needs repotting due to outgrowing its current pot, or for a soil refresh, you can easily create two plants by dividing them at the roots.
Carefully take your plant out of its pot and remove excess soil. Separate the roots and identify natural points where you can divide the plant. Gently pull the plant apart at these points.
Plant the two sections in new pots, following the Planting instructions. Make sure to use the appropriate soil mix and water them thoroughly. Keep a close watch for any signs of transplant shock.
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Ideal Growing Conditions for Anthurium crystallinum
Light
These Anthuriums, with their large, leafy foliage, flourish in abundant bright, indirect light, similar to the dappled light found in jungles. Just like many other leafy houseplants, the Crystal Anthurium cannot tolerate direct sunlight. The velvety leaves with white veins are sensitive and can easily suffer from sunburn.
When placed outdoors, Anthurium crystallinum flourishes best under the shelter of large trees, where they can enjoy a full day of shaded light.
While growing indoors, the ideal spot for this leafy plant is near an east-facing window or an area that receives ample morning sun with limited afternoon exposure. If the chosen location gets direct sunlight throughout the day, you can use sheer curtains on the windows. Sheer curtains maintain a bright atmosphere while filtering out the harsh rays.
Soil
Grow this anthurium in a blend of potting soil, perlite, and either peat moss or coconut coir. Both coconut coir and peat moss retain ample water while maintaining a light and airy texture. The addition of perlite, small white rocks of volcanic glass, enhances soil drainage by increasing the gaps between soil particles, exposing the roots to oxygen.
For an effective DIY potting mix, aim for a ratio of 2 parts potting soil, 1 part perlite, and 1 part coconut coir or peat moss. Adjust the proportions based on your plant’s specific requirements, adding more or less of each component accordingly.
Water
Proper watering practices play an essential role in maintaining the well-being of Anthurium crystallinum. Incorrect watering can lead to issues such as yellowing leaves, indicating root rot from overwatering or browning and curling at the edges, signaling to go underwater.
Optimal watering is when the top layer (1-2 inches) of soil has dried. A simple finger test can help decide moisture levels – if the soil feels damp, hold off on watering; if it’s dry, it’s time to hydrate your plant.
TIP: When you do water, do it slowly and deeply, focusing on the base of the plant. Refrain from watering the leaves, as this practice can be de
Temperature and Humidity
Crystal Anthuriums thrive in warm, humid, jungle-like settings. They are less tolerant of cold conditions and drafts. Their preference for humidity makes them less adaptable to dry environments.
The ideal temperature range for Anthurium crystallinum is between 75°F and 85°F.
Notably, these plants are particular about humidity levels. While many houseplants tolerate 50% humidity, Anthurium crystallinum thrives when humidity levels are around 70% or higher.
Achieving and maintaining such high humidity levels can be challenging with conventional methods. To meet the specific needs of Anthurium crystallinum, adding a humidifier to your home is recommended. You can also group plants together or keep the plant on a tray filled with pebbles and water.
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Anthurium crystallinum Care
Fertilizer
Although the Anthurium crystallinum doesn’t require frequent feeding, providing nourishment during the active growth periods in spring and summer encourages the development of vibrant, robust foliage.
You can use organic supplements like natural fish emulsion or a balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted by half on a monthly basis, which is effective.
It’s essential to carefully follow the instructions on commercial fertilizer products and refrain from over-fertilizing, as excessive application can result in root scorch.
Pruning
Since Crystal Anthurium has a slow growth rate, frequent pruning isn’t essential. However, if you notice any leaves that are dying or discolored, it’s advisable to trim them. This practice not only maintains the plant’s appearance but also stimulates new growth. By removing these dying leaves, the plant can direct its energy into producing fresh growth and maintaining healthier foliage.
Maintenance
Anthurium crystallinum accumulates dust and debris, just like any other surface in your home. Larger leaves, such as those of the Crystal Anthurium, are more prone to collecting dust. While it may seem harmless, this layer of dust can hinder photosynthesis and transpiration, impacting the overall health of the plant.
Occasionally, delicately wipe down the leaves of your Crystal Anthurium with a clean, damp cloth. This not only maintains the plant’s health but also keeps the leaves looking shiny.
Repotting
The Anthurium crystallinum has a slow growth rate and is tolerant of being root-bound. However, it’s advisable to consider repotting when signs of stunted growth or roots emerge from the drainage holes of the pot.
Choosing a slightly larger pot that is one to two sizes up to prevent excess water retention, which can lead to root rot.
Transplant shock symptoms, such as wilting and yellowing leaves, may occur, but your plant should recover after a short adjustment period. To minimize shock, avoid exposing the roots to air for an extended period, water the plant well immediately after repotting, and try to maintain consistency in conditions and soil. Minimize disturbances to the roots during the process.
Pests and Diseases
To keep your Anthurium crystallinum safe from pests and diseases, avoid overwatering and excessively humid conditions. However, it’s essential to remain alert for common pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. If you detect any signs of these pests, immediately use insecticidal soap or neem oil to address the issue.
Toxicity
Keep in mind that this plant is toxic, especially when ingested, and it can also cause skin irritation. When pruning, exercise caution and wear protective gloves. Use a sharp and clean pair of shears, cutting just above the leaf node.