Anthurium peltigerum is part of the Araceae family and its native range is SW. Colombia to Ecuador where it grows as an epiphytic subshrub in the wet tropical biome. Anthurium peltigerum is one of the most unusual anthuriums due to its peltate leaf - there are only 3 species that have this. Its venation give this species the look of a turtle shell and thus one of the common names of this plant is 'Turtle Shell Anthurium’.
The genus Anthurium is derived from the Greek ‘anthos’ for flower and ‘oura’ meaning tail; 'flower-tail', which probably refers to the tail-like spadix. Specific epithet is in reference to the peltate leaf (this is when the petiole attaches to the leaf blade entirely within the margin), a rarity in Anthurium.
Light: Bright shade, meaning the plant sees the sun for 0-4 hours per day - this could be through trees or a translucent curtain, it’s important for the plant to see the sky in order to thrive.
Water: Allow the first 2-3 inches of mix to dry out, pour water slowly over the top and allow the water to pass through the drainage holes.
Potting mix: A well draining mix composed of coco coir, orchid bark, perlite, and worm castings. I’ve also found adding a small amount of sphagnum moss and horticultural charcoal to the mix is great for the plant.
Fertilising: Feed your plant every other watering during the growing season or when you observe active growth. You can dilute fertiliser to half the recommended amount but never add more.
Temperature: Ideally 18-24°C.
Humidity: This Anthurium prefers higher humidity (70-80%), you can increase humidity by placing the plant on a watered pebble tray or using a humidifier.
Anthurium are toxic, keep out of reach of pets and children.