Anthurium AOS × Magnificum

🌿 The Anthurium AOS × Magnificum is a stunning hybrid that combines the best traits of its parent species, Anthurium andraeanum 'Ace of Spades' and Anthurium magnificum. This spectacular aroid belongs to the Araceae family and originates from the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, where anthuriums naturally grow as epiphytes or terrestrial plants in humid, shaded environments. This particular hybrid is considered an intermediate to advanced level plant, requiring attentive care to maintain its remarkable foliage. Here's a fun fact: the velvety texture of its leaves isn't just for show—it actually helps the plant reduce water loss and protect itself from intense tropical downpours in its natural habitat.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This hybrid displays an upright growth habit with leaves that emerge from a central crown. The foliage showcases elongated heart-shaped leaves with prominent white or pale green veining that contrasts beautifully against the deep green to nearly black background. Each leaf develops a luxurious velvety texture that catches light in different ways throughout the day. As the plant matures, the leaves can reach impressive sizes, with some specimens producing leaves over 30 centimetres in length. The contrasting venation becomes more pronounced as each leaf hardens off, creating a striking architectural presence.
FLOWER DETAILS
The Anthurium AOS × Magnificum produces typical anthurium inflorescences consisting of a spadix and spathe. The spathe is usually green to burgundy in colour with a smooth, slightly waxy texture that reflects light subtly. The spadix stands upright and can range from cream to pale yellow. While not particularly fragrant, the flowers add an exotic touch to the already impressive foliage display. Blooming occurs sporadically throughout the year when the plant is mature and care conditions are optimal. To encourage flowering, maintain consistent humidity above sixty percent, provide bright indirect light, and feed regularly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
🌞 Light: Bright indirect light is essential. Avoid direct sun which scorches leaves. Needs approximately 6-8 hours of filtered light daily. East or north-facing windows work well in Canadian homes.
💧 Water: Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Water when the top 2-3 centimetres of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in winter months. Bottom watering or slow soaking works best to avoid crown rot.
🌡️ Humidity: Thrives in 60-80% humidity. Lower humidity causes brown leaf edges and stunted growth.
🪴 Soil: Requires a chunky, well-draining mix. Combine orchid bark, perlite, peat moss, and charcoal for ideal structure and aeration.
🏺 Potting: Use a pot with drainage holes, preferably terracotta or plastic. Size should allow 2-3 centimetres of space around the root ball. Repot every 18-24 months or when roots become crowded.
🌱 Growth rate: Moderate to slow. Expect 2-4 new leaves over six months under optimal conditions. In one year, the plant may produce 6-8 leaves. Mature plants can reach 60-90 centimetres in height with proper care.
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Feed every 2-3 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength. Reduce to monthly in fall and pause in winter.
🐾 Pet friendly: No. Contains calcium oxalate crystals that are toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion causes oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
WHERE TO PUT IT
This hybrid thrives in bathrooms with windows, where natural humidity levels are higher and light conditions are often ideal. It also does well in living rooms or bedrooms near east-facing windows with a humidifier running nearby. Plant cabinets or terrariums work exceptionally well for maintaining the high humidity this plant craves. Avoid placing it near heating vents, air conditioning units, or drafty windows, as temperature fluctuations and dry air will stress the plant. Keep it away from cold window panes during Canadian winters, and never position it where it receives direct afternoon sun, which will bleach and burn the delicate velvety leaves.
sought-after