Anthurium hookeri aka Anturium Gelombang Cinta

Anthurium hookeri can develop impressively large foliage, with individual leaves reaching up to 89cm (approximately 3 feet) long and 10-26cm wide. The plant forms a rosette-shaped cluster of leaves similar to a bird's nest, giving it its common name. Growth rate is moderate, and the plant continuously produces new leaves from its central crown when provided with proper care conditions including high humidity and bright indirect light.

Anthurium hookeri thrives in temperatures between 70-90°F (21-32°C), reflecting its tropical rainforest origins. The temperature should never drop below 55°F (13°C), as cold exposure causes leaf yellowing and damage. Keep the plant away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and heating sources. If growing outdoors in suitable zones, bring the plant inside when temperatures approach 50°F (10°C).

Anthurium hookeri produces a typical aroid inflorescence consisting of a violet-purple spadix surrounded by a pale green spathe tinged with purple. Unlike the showy flamingo flower anthuriums, the blooms are relatively inconspicuous. After pollination (by Cyclocephala beetles in nature), the plant produces distinctive white berries rather than the red berries common to other Anthurium species. The berries are oval-shaped, approximately 6mm long by 4.5mm wide.

Division is the most reliable method for propagating Anthurium hookeri. When the plant has multiple stems, carefully remove it from the pot and separate sections that have both foliage and roots. Dust cut surfaces with fungicide as anthuriums are susceptible to fungal infections. Stem cuttings taken during summer can also root successfully. Seed propagation is possible but challenging—seeds don't store well and must be planted immediately after harvest. The best time to propagate is during the active growing season in spring and summer.

Anthurium hookeri can grow outdoors year-round in USDA Hardiness Zones 10-11, and seasonally in Zone 9 with winter protection. Mature plants can tolerate brief temperatures down to 30°F, but young plants need protection from any cold. Outdoors, provide dappled shade under larger trees or plants, as direct sunlight will scorch the leaves. Maintain humidity above 70% and protect from strong winds. In cooler climates, grow as a patio plant and bring indoors before temperatures drop below 50°F.

Repot Anthurium hookeri every 1-2 years in spring or early summer, or when roots begin circling the pot. Choose a container only 1-2 inches larger than the current pot with drainage holes. Use a well-draining aroid mix of peat, perlite, and pine bark. Position the root ball slightly below the pot rim and gently firm the soil around roots. After repotting, place in bright indirect light and maintain humidity while the plant adjusts—avoid direct sun and temperature extremes during recovery.

Anthurium hookeri requires minimal pruning. Remove yellowing, brown, or damaged leaves by cutting them at the base near the stem using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Sterilize tools between cuts to prevent disease spread. Dead flower spathes can be removed once they fade. Never remove more than one-third of the foliage at once, and avoid cutting healthy green leaves as this stresses the plant.

Keep Anthurium hookeri leaves clean by gently wiping them with a damp cloth every few weeks to remove dust. This improves photosynthesis and helps prevent pest infestations, as dusty leaves attract spider mites. You can also mist the leaves regularly or shower the plant occasionally with lukewarm water. Avoid using leaf shine products as they can clog the stomata and damage the foliage.

Yellow leaves on Anthurium hookeri typically indicate overwatering, which leads to root rot and prevents nutrient uptake. Other causes include low humidity (below 60%), temperature stress from cold drafts or temps below 55°F, and nutrient deficiencies—particularly nitrogen. Check soil moisture before watering and ensure proper drainage. Increase humidity with a humidifier or pebble tray, and feed monthly during the growing season. Remove severely yellowed leaves as they won't recover.

Brown leaf tips and edges on Anthurium hookeri usually indicate low humidity, which is the most common issue for this tropical plant requiring 70-80% humidity. Direct sunlight causes brown scorched patches on leaves. Underwatering leads to crispy, shriveled brown edges, while overwatering causes brown spots with yellow halos. Bacterial blight shows as water-soaked lesions that turn brown. Address by increasing humidity, moving away from direct sun, adjusting watering, and checking for root rot if problems persist.

Drooping leaves on Anthurium hookeri most commonly indicate underwatering—check if the soil is completely dry and water thoroughly. Conversely, overwatering causes root rot which prevents water uptake, also causing wilting; check for black, mushy roots and repot in fresh soil if needed. Temperature stress from cold drafts or sudden temperature changes can cause drooping. Ensure humidity remains above 60% and the plant receives bright indirect light rather than direct sun which can cause heat stress.

Common pests include spider mites (causing yellow spots and webbing, thriving in dry conditions) and mealybugs (white cottony masses in leaf joints). Treat with neem oil, insecticidal soap, or rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab. Root rot from Rhizoctonia, Phytophthora, or Pythium fungi occurs with overwatering—repot in fresh well-draining soil and remove affected roots. Bacterial blight causes water-soaked lesions that turn bronze. Prevent problems by maintaining good air circulation, proper watering, and regular leaf cleaning.

In its native habitat, Anthurium hookeri is pollinated by Cyclocephala beetles. The flowers on the spadix are perfect, containing both male and female parts, but typically require cross-pollination for seed production. In cultivation, hand pollination is possible by transferring pollen between plants when the female flowers are receptive (indicated by a sticky surface) and male flowers are releasing pollen. After successful pollination, white berries develop over 6-7 months.

The most sought-after variety is Anthurium hookeri 'Albo Variegated' featuring white, cream, or light green patches contrasting with dark green foliage. The 'Yellow Variegated' (also called 'Aurea Variegated') displays vibrant yellow highlights. A 'Mint' form exists with lighter green coloration. These variegated forms are significantly more expensive than the standard green variety due to their rarity and slower growth. Note that many plants sold as 'Bird's Nest Anthurium' may be hybrids rather than true Anthurium hookeri.