Anthurium watermaliense image • Photo: Author Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz• CC BY-SA 4.0
Anthurium watermaliense is a tropical perennial plant in the Araceae family, known for its striking dark purple spathes that contrast with glossy green foliage. It features large, heart-shaped leaves with prominent veining and a leathery texture. The plant produces a characteristic spadix (flower spike) surrounded by its showy spathe, which is unusually dark compared to other Anthurium species. Its compact growth habit and dramatic floral displays make it a prized ornamental houseplant.
Plant Care Overview
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Care Guide
Essential requirements for your Anthurium watermaliense
Light Requirements
Bright, indirect light (avoid direct sunlight)
Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.
Watering Schedule
Water when top 1-2 inches of soil are dry (approximately weekly)
Humidity Needs
high humidity
Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.
Temperature Range
65-80°F (18-27°C)
Native Climate
Native to Tropical rainforests of Costa Rica, Panama, and Colombia
Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.
Soil Type
Well-draining aroid mix (orchid bark, perlite, peat moss)
Fertilizer
Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season
Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.
Propagation
Methods to grow more Anthurium watermaliense plants
Division of root clumps or stem cuttings with aerial roots
Plant Info
Characteristics and background information
Tropical rainforests of Costa Rica, Panama, and Colombia
moderate
2-3 feet tall and wide when container-grown
perennial
Symptoms: Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing
Toxic parts: All parts contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals
Indoor Blooming
This plant can produce flowers indoors when given proper care.
Bloom Season
Spring through summer (can bloom sporadically year-round in ideal conditions)
Flower Description
Deep purple to nearly black spathe surrounding a cream-colored spadix, with waxy texture and heart-shaped form
Fun Fact
The species' nearly black spathe coloration is exceptionally rare among flowering plants, resulting from high concentrations of anthocyanin pigments.
Troubleshooting
Solutions for typical issues with your Anthurium watermaliense
Yellowing leaves, mushy stems, foul soil odor
Fine webbing on leaves, yellow stippling on foliage
Brown crispy leaf edges or bleached spots
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Care Guides
Detailed guides for caring for your Anthurium watermaliense
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