3x baby Anthurium waroqueanum ’Queen Anthurium’

**Anthurium waroqueanum**, commonly known as the Queen Anthurium, is a highly sought-after tropical plant due to its striking appearance, particularly its long, velvety leaves. Native to the rainforests of Colombia, this plant is a member of the Araceae family, and it thrives in the humid, shaded understories of tropical forests. The **Anthurium waroqueanum** is prized among plant collectors for its elongated, heart-shaped leaves that can grow over a meter in length, featuring a luxurious velvety texture and prominent white veins.

### **Heritage and Origin**
The Queen Anthurium hails from Colombia's tropical regions, where it grows as an epiphyte, meaning it attaches to other plants or trees but does not draw nutrients from them like a parasite. Instead, it gathers moisture and nutrients from the air and surrounding organic material. The plant’s natural habitat provides it with high humidity, filtered sunlight, and consistently warm temperatures, which are all critical elements to replicate in a home environment for optimal growth. This regal plant has earned its "Queen" title due to its stately appearance, demanding care, and tendency to develop massive, dramatic leaves that make it stand out in any collection.

### **Care Requirements**

**Light:**
The Anthurium waroqueanum prefers bright, indirect light, similar to the dappled light of its native rainforest. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the delicate velvety leaves, while too little light can stunt its growth and reduce its signature leaf size. An east- or north-facing window is ideal, or using a sheer curtain to filter the light in brighter areas.

**Watering:**
This plant thrives in consistently moist but well-drained soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to droop and lose their luster. It’s best to allow the top inch of the soil to dry out between waterings, ensuring that the plant is never sitting in water. Use room temperature, filtered water or rainwater to avoid any issues with mineral build-up, as the Queen Anthurium is sensitive to chemicals commonly found in tap water.

**Humidity:**
High humidity is essential for the Queen Anthurium’s health and appearance. Aim for humidity levels of 60-80%, which can be achieved by using a humidifier, placing the plant on a humidity tray, or grouping it with other plants to create a more humid microclimate. Low humidity can cause the leaves to curl or develop brown, crispy edges, compromising the plant’s beauty.

**Temperature:**
Being a tropical plant, Anthurium waroqueanum prefers temperatures between 18-27°C (65-80°F). It does not tolerate cold drafts or temperatures below 15°C (60°F), so it should be kept away from windows during colder months or any areas with fluctuating temperatures.

**Soil:**
The Queen Anthurium requires a well-draining, airy potting mix that mimics its natural epiphytic conditions. A mix of orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss works well to allow for proper aeration and moisture retention. A chunky mix allows oxygen to reach the roots while preventing them from sitting in water, which is critical for this species.

**Fertilizing:**
During the growing season (spring and summer), fertilize the Anthurium waroqueanum with a balanced, diluted fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this plant is sensitive to salt build-up in the soil, which can damage the roots and cause leaf burn. Flushing the soil with clean water occasionally helps to avoid this issue.

**Repotting:**
Repotting should be done every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its pot. Because this species prefers a snug fit, only go up one pot size at a time. Repotting provides an opportunity to refresh the soil mix and examine the roots for any signs of rot or disease.

**Pests and Problems:**
Common pests that affect Anthurium waroqueanum include spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation, such as webbing, sticky residue, or distorted leaves, and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. In terms of disease, the plant can be prone to root rot if overwatered, so proper drainage is critical.

### **Summary**
Anthurium waroqueanum is a stunning and elegant plant that requires careful attention to detail in its care. With the right balance of bright, indirect light, high humidity, and well-draining soil, this plant can grow into a striking centerpiece with its massive, velvety leaves. Although the care for this plant can be demanding, the rewards are well worth it for those willing to create the perfect environment for it to thrive. As one of the most majestic species of Anthurium, it truly lives up to its royal reputation in the plant world.