Anthurium vittarifolium is a spectacular species of Anthurium from the Araceae family, native to the lowland rainforests of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It is one of the most admired strap-leaf Anthuriums, prized for its extraordinary foliage.

The plant produces long, pendulous leaves that can reach over 1.5 metres in length in maturity. Each leaf is narrow, strap-like, and deep green with a leathery texture and a prominent midrib. Unlike the broader-leaved Anthurium clarinervium or A. crystallinum, A. vittarifolium is valued for its elegant, cascading habit, making it perfect for hanging planters or high shelves where its leaves can drape gracefully.

It also produces clusters of colourful berry-like fruits on its inflorescence after flowering, adding further ornamental appeal. In interiors and collections, it is regarded as one of the most refined Anthuriums, offering a jungle-like, dramatic presence.

Anthurium vittarifolium – Care Guide

Light

Thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch its long, delicate leaves. It will tolerate medium light but will grow more slowly.

Watering

Keep the soil lightly and consistently moist, watering when the top 2–3 cm feels dry. Avoid letting it sit in water, as Anthuriums are prone to root rot. Reduce watering slightly in winter.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Prefers warmth, 18–28°C. Keep above 15°C at all times.

• Humidity: Requires high humidity (70–90%). Ideal for greenhouses, terrariums, or homes with humidifiers. In dry conditions, leaf tips may brown.

Soil and Potting

Use a chunky, free-draining aroid mix – peat-free compost with orchid bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss works well. Hanging baskets or tall pots are ideal to showcase its trailing leaves.

Feeding

Feed every 4 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertiliser, diluted to half strength. No feeding is required in winter.

Pruning and Maintenance

Remove old or yellowing leaves at the base to maintain appearance. Wipe foliage occasionally with a damp cloth to keep it dust-free.

Growth and Maturity

A moderate grower, reaching up to 1–1.5 m indoors. Leaves grow longer with maturity and proper humidity. It can live for many years when given stable, tropical conditions.

Common Issues

• Brown tips: Low humidity.

• Yellow leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.

• Slow growth: Insufficient light or nutrients.

• Pests: May attract spider mites or thrips in drier conditions.

Background and Benefits

Strap-leaf Anthuriums like Anthurium vittarifolium are less common in cultivation but are highly sought after for their unusual growth habit. In nature, they grow epiphytically on trees, with their long leaves draping elegantly. In cultivation, they bring an unmistakable tropical aesthetic to interiors and plant collections.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect; avoid direct sun

• Water: Lightly moist; reduce in winter

• Temperature: 18–28°C; protect below 15°C

• Humidity: Very high (70–90%)

• Soil: Chunky, airy aroid mix

• Feed: Monthly in spring/summer

• Growth: Strap-leaf Anthurium with trailing leaves up to 1.5 m