Anthurium warocqueanum aka Queen Anthurium

Anthurium warocqueanum prefers temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C), which is slightly cooler than many other tropical houseplants. The plant is sensitive to temperature fluctuations and should be kept away from cold drafts, heating vents, and air conditioning units. Temperatures below 60°F (15°C) can cause stress and slow growth, while temperatures above 80°F (27°C) may require increased humidity to prevent leaf damage.

The most effective method for propagating Anthurium warocqueanum is through stem cuttings. Take a top cutting with at least one node and aerial roots if possible, as these establish most easily. You can also divide the plant when repotting if it has multiple growth points. Plant the cutting in a well-draining mix of orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss, and maintain high humidity (70%+) during rooting. Rooting typically takes 4-6 weeks in warm, humid conditions.

Anthurium warocqueanum is known for its spectacular leaves that can reach 3-4 feet (90-120 cm) in length and up to 15 inches (38 cm) in width when mature. In exceptional conditions, leaves may grow even larger, with some specimens producing leaves approaching 6.6 feet (2 meters) long within 2-3 years. The plant has a moderate growth rate and grows as a climbing epiphyte, so it will benefit from a moss pole or support structure to encourage larger leaf development.

Yes, Anthurium warocqueanum produces flowers consisting of a green spathe and spadix, which is typical for plants in the Araceae family. After successful pollination, the plant develops red berries. However, flowering is relatively rare in cultivation, and the plant is primarily grown for its stunning velvety foliage rather than its blooms. The flowers are not particularly showy compared to other Anthurium species like A. andraeanum.

Anthurium warocqueanum can be susceptible to common houseplant pests including spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects, particularly in low humidity conditions. Spider mites are especially problematic when humidity drops below 60%. The plant is also vulnerable to root rot if the soil remains waterlogged, and bacterial or fungal leaf spots can develop in conditions with poor air circulation. Regular inspection, maintaining proper humidity, and ensuring good air flow help prevent most pest and disease issues.

Repot Anthurium warocqueanum every 1-2 years in spring or early summer, or when roots begin growing through drainage holes. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one (1-2 inches wider) as the plant prefers to be somewhat root-bound. Use a well-draining mix of orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss. Be gentle with the roots as they are somewhat fragile, and maintain high humidity after repotting to minimize transplant shock.

Gently wipe the velvety leaves of Anthurium warocqueanum with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust, being very careful not to damage the delicate velvet texture. Never use leaf shine products as they can clog the tiny hairs and damage the characteristic velvet appearance. Some growers prefer to mist the leaves or give the plant a gentle shower with lukewarm water, allowing it to air dry in a well-ventilated area to prevent fungal issues.

Yellow leaves on Anthurium warocqueanum typically indicate overwatering, inadequate drainage, or root rot. Check that the soil drains well and isn't staying soggy between waterings. Yellowing can also result from nutrient deficiencies, particularly nitrogen, or from insufficient light. Older leaves naturally yellow and drop as part of the plant's growth cycle, but multiple yellowing leaves signal a care issue that needs attention.

Brown leaf tips or edges on Anthurium warocqueanum usually indicate low humidity, which is the most common cause given this plant's need for 70%+ humidity. Brown spots can also result from direct sunlight scorching the delicate velvety leaves. Inconsistent watering, salt buildup from tap water, or fluoride toxicity can cause browning as well. Use filtered or distilled water if your tap water is heavily treated, and maintain consistent high humidity to prevent this issue.

Slow growth in Anthurium warocqueanum often results from insufficient light, low humidity below 60-70%, or lack of nutrients. Ensure the plant receives bright indirect light and maintain humidity above 70% for optimal growth. Feed monthly during the growing season with diluted fertilizer. Cool temperatures, being root-bound, or recent repotting can also temporarily slow growth. Remember this plant has a moderate growth rate naturally, so patience is key.

While there are no officially recognized cultivars or varieties of Anthurium warocqueanum, plants can show natural variation in leaf color ranging from lighter green to very dark greenish-black, and in the prominence of the pale veining. Some collectors seek out darker forms or plants with more pronounced silver veining. All forms belong to the same species and have the characteristic velvety leaf texture that defines this spectacular plant.

Anthurium warocqueanum can only be grown outdoors in tropical and subtropical climates that closely mimic its native Colombian cloud forest habitat. It requires consistently warm temperatures (65-75°F), high humidity (70%+), protection from direct sun, and no frost. In most temperate climates, it must be grown indoors or in a greenhouse. Even in suitable climates like USDA zones 10-11, it needs a sheltered location with dappled shade and consistent moisture.

Queen Anthurium requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Queen Anthurium’s native range is the Americas.

Queen Anthurium should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Queen Anthurium loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

To ensure optimal growth, the Queen Anthurium prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

The Queen Anthurium is not in need of supplementary humidity. Most water is taken in by plants through their roots, thus soil watering is the most efficient way to provide humidity to your plants.

The Queen Anthurium should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

During the cold period, it is common for Queen Anthurium to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.