Anthurium papillalinum is an exotic species of the Araceae family, officially described in 1986 by botanist Thomas B. Croat, and is considered a "gem" among plant collectors due to its dramatic foliage and unique texture. Native to the humid tropical forests of Panama, this terrestrial plant (unlike many epiphytic anthuriums) grows in coastal lowlands, especially in the provinces of Colón and Darién, at elevations below 100 meters. It is a member of the section Cardiolonchium, being related to other velvet-leaved anthurium species.
Features
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Leaves : The leaves are the strong point of Anthurium papillalinum . They are cordate (heart-shaped), elongated and slightly pointed at the tip, with a length of 20-35 cm (sometimes up to 40 cm in mature specimens) and a width of 15-25 cm. Their color is a deep olive green, almost black, with a subtle sheen and a velvety, densely papillose texture (with small protrusions that give the sensation of "suede"). The main veins are only slightly lighter, without the whitish contrast of other species. Young leaves can have burgundy or reddish-brown shades, which darken as they mature. The underside of the leaves (abaxial) can have red-purple hues, especially in quality specimens, such as those from the Lago Gatún locality.
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Stems and habit : The plant has short, round or slightly flattened stems (terete or subterete), olive-green to reddish-purple. It grows in a "leggy" manner (with wider spaces between nodes), which makes it appear more sprawling than other anthuriums. Typical height indoors is 30-60 cm, but can reach up to 80-100 cm in optimal conditions, with a width of 30-50 cm.
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Inflorescence : The inflorescence is erect, longer than the leaves, and consists of a green spathe, sometimes with red-purple edges, and a green spadix. The flowers are small, cream-colored, with a brush-like stigma.
Care
Anthurium papillalinum is considered relatively easy to care for compared to other varieties, but it does require good growing conditions to thrive. Here are the essential requirements:
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Light : Prefers bright indirect light, ideally 3-4 hours daily, 2-3 meters from a north or east facing window, with filtered light. Tolerates lower light, but leaves lose their intensity. Direct light causes leaf scorch.
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Watering : The soil should be kept slightly moist, watering when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry. Excessive watering leads to root rot, and complete drying affects the leaves. The water should be at room temperature, preferably without chlorine.
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Humidity : Requires a minimum humidity of 50%, ideally 60% or higher. In homes, a humidifier or a bowl of wet pebbles helps. Misting the leaves maintains humidity, but the soil should not remain soggy.
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Temperature : The optimal range is 21-32°C during the day, minimum 16°C at night. Temperatures below 10°C or above 35°C cause stress, leading to yellow leaves or slow growth.
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Soil : Prefers a well-drained, preferably slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.5) mix of orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss. Examples of mixes include Miracle-Gro Indoor Mix or aroid soil.
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Fertilization : Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g. 20-7-20) diluted to 1/4 strength, monthly in spring and summer. Over-fertilization causes burns or salt buildup. In winter, fertilization stops.
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Replanting : Replant every 1-2 years, in a pot only 2-3 cm larger, as it prefers to be slightly "crowded".
Anthurium papillalimunum is a collector's plant, ideal for interior decoration due to its elegant leaves and luxurious texture. It is perfect for offices, living rooms or corners with filtered light, where it can be displayed in decorative pots or on stands. Its velvety foliage and dark color add a touch of tropical sophistication, often being compared to a "living work of art". Unlike Anthurium Luxurians , which impresses with its quilted texture and larger leaves, papillalimunum has a more slender appearance, with more elongated leaves and a more discreet, but equally captivating presence.
Peculiarities and challenges
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Pests : May be affected by red spider mites, aphids or whiteflies, especially in low humidity conditions. Regular inspection and spraying with water or natural insecticide will prevent infestations.
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Challenges : Sensitivity to overwatering and direct light is the main problem. Leaves may yellow or curl under stressful conditions (low light, low humidity, or cold).
Popularity
Anthurium papillalinum has become extremely sought after due to its velvety leaves and dramatic appearance, being nicknamed the "unicorn of anthuriums" in communities on Reddit and Instagram.
