Binomial Plant Name: Anthurium crystallinum
Genus: Anthurium
Pronunciation: An-thur-ee-um kris-tal-lin-um
Meaning Behind Name: The genus name “Anthurium” comes from the Greek words “anthos,” meaning flower, and “oura,” meaning tail, referring to the tail-like spadix. The species name “crystallinum” likely refers to the crystalline appearance of the leaves.
Nicknames: Crystal Anthurium, Ace of Spades, Elephant Ear Plant
Commonly Confused With: Anthurium clarinervium, another species of anthurium with similar veined leaves, is often confused with Anthurium crystallinum.
Examples of Variations of Plant: There are several cultivars and hybrids of Anthurium crystallinum, such as Anthurium crystallinum ‘Mehani’ and Anthurium crystallinum ‘Golden Crystallinum’.
Plant Appearance
TEXTURE
Smooth Leaves
The leaves of Anthurium crystallinum have a smooth, glossy texture. The veins create a slightly raised texture on the surface of the leaves.
HARD/SOFT
Firm/Flexible
The plant has relatively firm leaves, giving them a sturdy feel. However, the leaves are not rigid and have a certain degree of flexibility.
Foilage
Large Leaves
The foliage of Anthurium crystallinum is the main attraction. The large, heart-shaped leaves with their silver-white veins make this plant highly desirable among collectors and enthusiasts.
COLORS
Dark Green/Silver/White
The leaves are dark green with silver-white veins, creating a striking contrast. The spathe (a modified leaf that encloses the spadix, where the actual flowers are) is typically green.
Distinguishing Features:
Anthurium crystallinum is characterized by its large, heart-shaped leaves with prominent silver-white veins. The leaves have a glossy appearance and are pendent, meaning they hang downward.
Maximum Height (as a House Plant):
As a houseplant, Anthurium crystallinum can grow up to 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 centimeters) in height.
Node Features:
Nodes are the points on the stem from which leaves, branches, and flowers arise. In Anthurium crystallinum, nodes are where leaves are attached to the stem. The stem elongates between nodes as the plant grows.
Stem Features:
The stem of Anthurium crystallinum is usually short and not very visible, as the plant’s focus is on its large, showy leaves.
Flower Features:
The actual flowers of Anthurium crystallinum are tiny and inconspicuous, clustered on a spike called a spadix. The spadix is enclosed by a modified leaf called a spathe, which is often green in color.
Flower Bloom Color:
The spathe, which surrounds the flowers, is typically green in color.
Anthurium Crystallinum Climate Conditions
Temperature: It prefers warm temperatures between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It should be protected from drafts and cold temperatures.
Sunlight Requirements: Anthurium crystallinum prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, especially in the afternoon, as it can scorch the leaves. It can tolerate lower light conditions, but its growth may be slower.
Humidity: High humidity levels, preferably between 60% to 80%, are ideal for Anthurium crystallinum.
Blooming Season: While they are primarily grown for their attractive foliage, Anthurium crystallinum can produce flowers throughout the year under proper conditions. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, while the main attraction is its unique, veined leaves.
Plant Care & Maintenance
Soil Type: Slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range between 6.0 to 7.0. Well-draining, lightweight potting mix with organic matter is ideal. Aroid mix or orchid mix can work well for Anthurium crystallinum.
Sunlight Requirements: Anthurium crystallinum prefers bright, indirect light.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch (2.5 cm) of the soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure that the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot.
Pruning: (Easy) Remove dead or yellowing leaves at their base using sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears. Pruning can be done throughout the year as needed to maintain the plant’s appearance.
Repotting Your Anthurium Crystallinum: Moderate Difficulty Step-by-Step Guide How to Repot:
Choose the Right Time: Spring or early summer is the best time to repot your Anthurium crystallinum when it is entering a period of active growth.
Select a Suitable Pot: Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot and has drainage holes at the bottom.
Prepare the Plant: Water the plant thoroughly a few hours before repotting to make the root ball more pliable.
Remove the Plant: Gently remove the plant from its current pot, being careful not to damage the roots.
Inspect the Roots: Trim any dead or rotting roots. If the plant has become root-bound, you can gently tease the roots apart.
Place in the New Pot: Put a layer of fresh potting mix in the new pot. Position the plant in the center and fill in around the sides with more soil, pressing lightly to remove air pockets.
Water Thoroughly: After repotting, water the plant thoroughly to help settle the soil.
Propagation of Anthurium Crystallinum : Moderate Step-by-Step Guide How to Propagate:
Select a Healthy Plant: Choose a healthy, mature Anthurium crystallinum plant with several leaves.
Locate a Node: Look for a node (a small bump on the stem) below a leaf.
Cutting: Using a sharp, sterile knife or scissors, cut a stem with at least one leaf and a node attached.
Rooting Hormone (Optional): Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development (optional).
Planting: Plant the cutting in a small pot filled with moist, well-draining potting mix. Insert the cutting about an inch deep into the soil.
Provide Humidity: Cover the cutting with a plastic bag or place it in a humid environment to maintain high humidity levels.
Rooting: Roots should develop in a few weeks to a couple of months. Once the cutting has established roots, transplant it into a larger pot if desired.
Things to Consider When Planting
01
GROWING FROM SEED
Uncommon
Anthurium crystallinum is propagated via division or stem cuttings. Growing it from seeds is less common and might require specific conditions and expertise.
02
Fertilizer
Balanced Liquid Fertilizer
Feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding in fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows down.
03
Spacing
When Planting Multiples
When planting multiple Anthurium crystallinum plants, space them at least 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth.
04
DEPTH
When Planting or Repotting
When planting or repotting, ensure the plant is at the same depth as it was in its previous container. Avoid planting too deep or too shallow.
05
SUPPORT
Applies to Older/Large Plants
Anthurium crystallinum typically does not require support as its stems are not tall or climbing. However, you can provide small stakes if needed to support the plant if it becomes top-heavy.
Plant Health Problems & Pests
Lifespan: Anthurium crystallinum can live for several years with proper care, and in some cases, they can live for decades if provided with optimal conditions indoors.
Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can lead to root rot, a common issue for many houseplants, including Anthurium crystallinum.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot diseases can occur due to various fungi or bacteria, leading to dark spots on the leaves.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves, caused by fungal infections.
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that can cluster on leaves and suck sap from the plant, causing damage.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can create fine webbing on the leaves and cause discoloration and damage.
Common Pests:
Apart from aphids and spider mites, Anthurium crystallinum can also be affected by mealybugs, scale insects.
Loss of Leaves: Sudden leaf loss can occur due to stress, improper watering, or pests.
Yellowing Leaves
This can be due to overwatering, underwatering, or insufficient light.
Brown Tips
Brown tips on the leaves are often a sign of underwatering or low humidity.
Drooping/WILTING Leaves
Indicates issues with water balance, either too much or too little.
Stunted Growth
Poor growth can result from inadequate light, poor soil conditions, or pests damaging the roots.
Preventing Pests & Disease
Proper Watering:
Water the plant thoroughly but allow excess water to drain away. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Well-Draining Soil
Use a well-draining potting mix to prevent waterlogged roots.
Quarantine New Plants: If you bring a new plant home, keep it separate from your other plants for a few weeks to ensure it doesn’t introduce pests.
Regular Inspection:
Check your plant regularly for signs of pests or diseases. Early detection can prevent the issue from spreading.
Isolate Affected Plants:
If you notice pests or diseases, isolate the affected plant to prevent the problem from spreading to other plants.
Prune & Remove Infected Parts
Prune off affected leaves or parts of the plant to prevent the spread of diseases.
*Regular care, attention to the plant’s needs, and prompt action when issues arise are key to maintaining the health of Anthurium crystallinum.
History of Anthurium crystallinum
Discovery Credit:
The discovery credit for Anthurium crystallinum is not documented. However, it belongs to the vast and diverse genus Anthurium, which was first described by the French botanist Étienne Pierre Ventenat in the early 19th century.
Historical Cultural Impact:
Anthurium crystallinum, like many other Anthurium species, has gained popularity among plant enthusiasts and collectors due to its striking foliage. It has become a favorite choice for indoor gardening and ornamental plant displays, contributing to the overall fascination with exotic plants.
Known Remedies for Humans:
There are no widely recognized medicinal uses of Anthurium crystallinum in traditional or modern medicine. It is primarily grown for decorative purposes and is not known for its medicinal properties.
Benefits to Humans or Animals:
Anthurium crystallinum does not have specific benefits for humans or animals. However, like other houseplants, it contributes to indoor air purification by absorbing toxins and releasing oxygen. It is not listed as toxic to cats or dogs by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). However, ingestion of any plant material may still cause mild gastrointestinal upset in pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea. It’s always a good idea to keep any houseplant out of reach of pets to prevent them from chewing on the leaves or other parts of the plant.
Invasiveness:
Anthurium crystallinum is not considered invasive. It is typically cultivated in controlled environments and is not known to spread aggressively in natural habitats.
Cultivation:
Anthurium crystallinum is cultivated as a houseplant in various regions with suitable indoor conditions. It requires a warm and humid environment, making it well-suited for indoor cultivation. Proper care, including appropriate watering and indirect light, is essential for its successful growth.
Plant Tolerances
Result of Overwatering
Root Rot
Overwatering can lead to root rot in Anthurium crystallinum. The roots suffocate in waterlogged soil, which hampers their ability to absorb nutrients, leading to wilting, yellowing leaves, and overall decline in plant health.
Revival Time for Overwatering
2-14 Days
Reviving an overwatered plant involves allowing the soil to dry out and adjusting the watering schedule. Depending on the severity of overwatering, it may take a few days to a few weeks for the plant to show signs of recovery after appropriate adjustments are made.
Result of Underwatering
Brown, Crispy Tips
Underwatering can cause the leaves of Anthurium crystallinum to wilt, turn brown at the tips, or become crispy. Prolonged underwatering can lead to severe dehydration and potential irreversible damage to the plant.
Revival Time for Underwatering:
Hours – Several Days
If the plant is underwatered, providing proper watering and a humid environment can help it recover. Improvement can be observed within a few hours to a couple of days after addressing the water deficiency.
Delicateness & Sensitivity
Relatively Delicate
Anthurium crystallinum is relatively delicate in terms of its water requirements and sensitivity to environmental conditions. Care should be taken to avoid extremes in watering and exposure to harsh elements.
How Hard is plant to Kill?
Moderately Hard to Kill
While not extremely hard to care for, Anthurium crystallinum requires consistent attention to watering and humidity levels. With proper care, it can thrive indoors. However, neglecting its specific needs, especially regarding water, can lead to its decline.
Plant Tolerances (Continued)
winterizing your plants
Keep Indoors
Anthurium crystallinum is not frost-tolerant. keep indoors during winter in regions where frost is common.
tolerance to epsom salts
Moderate
Moderate. Anthurium crystallinum can tolerate Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) in small amounts as a magnesium supplement, but excessive use can harm the plant.
tolerance to coffee grounds
Balanced Portions
Use Coffee grounds as a natural fertilizer for Anthurium crystallinum in moderation. The grounds provide organic matter and can slightly acidify the soil, which is beneficial for plants like anthuriums that prefer slightly acidic conditions.
tolerance to egg shells
Balanced Portions
Use Crushed eggshells as a source of calcium for Anthurium crystallinum. The shells, when crushed and added to the soil, can help in providing a slow-release calcium supplement, which is beneficial for the plant.
Suceptability to wind erosion
Good in Low Wind
Anthurium crystallinum is not well-suited for outdoor cultivation in windy areas. Its large, delicate leaves are susceptible to damage from strong winds.
Resistance to frost conditions
Not Frost Resistant
Anthurium crystallinum is not frost-resistant. It is a tropical plant that cannot withstand freezing temperatures.
Recommendations
Good for Beginners:
Anthurium crystallinum is suitable for beginners who are willing to pay attention to its specific care needs, particularly regarding watering and humidity. With proper research and attention to its requirements, beginners can successfully grow this plant.
Location in House:
Place Anthurium crystallinum in a location with bright, indirect light. It thrives in areas with filtered sunlight and should be shielded from direct sun exposure. A spot near a north or east-facing window is often ideal.
Companion Plants:
Anthurium crystallinum can be paired with other tropical houseplants that have similar light and humidity requirements. Some suitable companions include other Anthurium species, Calathea varieties, ferns, and snake plants.
Aquatic:
Anthurium crystallinum is not an aquatic or semi-aquatic plant. Do not be place in an aquarium. It requires well-draining soil and should not be submerged in water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water my Anthurium Crystallinum?
A: Water your Anthurium crystallinum when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Proper drainage is essential.
Q: Can I place my Anthurium crystallinum in direct sunlight?
A: No, it’s best to provide bright, indirect light for Anthurium crystallinum. Direct sunlight, especially in the afternoon, can scorch its leaves.
Q: How can I increase humidity for my Anthurium crystallinum ?
A: You can increase humidity by misting the plant, placing a humidifier nearby, or setting the pot on a tray filled with water and pebbles. Grouping plants together also creates a microclimate of higher humidity.
Q: What should I do if my Anthurium Crystallinum’s leaves turn yellow? ?
A: Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering, underwatering, or poor drainage. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering habits accordingly. Trim away any severely affected leaves.
Q: Can I propagate Anthurium crystallinum in water?
A: Anthurium crystallinum is best propagated in a well-draining potting mix. Rooting in water can lead to fragile roots that may struggle to adapt to soil.
Q: Is Anthurium crystallinum safe for pets?
A: Anthurium species contain compounds that can be irritating if ingested, so it’s best to keep them out of reach of pets. If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Anthurium crystallinum?
A: Fertilize your Anthurium crystallinum every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows down.
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