Anthurium regale

🌿 The Anthurium regale, commonly known as the Regal Anthurium, is a striking member of the Araceae family. Native to the cloud forests of Peru, this species thrives in high-altitude environments where humidity is abundant and temperatures remain mild. In its natural habitat, it grows as an epiphyte, clinging to tree bark and absorbing moisture from the air. This is an intermediate-level plant that rewards attentive care with breathtaking foliage. Here's something you might not know: the velvety texture of its leaves isn't just for show—it actually helps the plant capture and retain moisture in its misty mountain home.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
Anthurium regale grows in an upright rosette form, creating a sculptural presence wherever it's placed. The leaves are large, often reaching 60 to 90 centimetres in length at maturity, with a distinctive elongated heart shape. They're deep green with prominent white or pale green veins that create a stunning contrast against the darker background. The leaf surface has a velvety, almost quilted texture that catches light beautifully and gives the plant a luxurious appearance.
FLOWER DETAILS
When mature, Anthurium regale produces spadix-type flowers typical of the aroid family. The spathe is usually pale green or cream-coloured, while the spadix itself is white to light green. These flowers don't have a noticeable fragrance, but their understated elegance complements the dramatic foliage rather than competing with it. Flowering is infrequent indoors and typically occurs once or twice a year when conditions are ideal. To encourage blooming, maintain consistent humidity levels above 60%, provide bright indirect light, and ensure the plant is mature enough—usually at least two to three years old.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS

🌞 Light: Bright indirect light is essential. Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch the delicate leaves. Aim for 8 to 10 hours of filtered light daily, similar to what it would receive beneath a forest canopy.
💧 Water: Keep the growing medium lightly moist but never waterlogged. Water when the top 2 to 3 centimetres feel dry to the touch. In spring and summer, this might mean watering twice a week; in autumn and winter, reduce to once weekly. Bottom watering or using a watering can with a narrow spout works best to avoid water sitting on the leaves.
🌡️ Humidity: High humidity between 60% and 80% is ideal. Use a humidifier, pebble tray, or group plants together to maintain moisture in the air.
🪴 Soil: A chunky, well-draining mix is critical. Combine orchid bark, perlite, peat moss, and charcoal. The mix should be airy and allow roots to breathe while retaining some moisture.
🏺 Potting: Use a pot with drainage holes, preferably terracotta or plastic. Choose a size that's just slightly larger than the root ball—about 5 centimetres wider in diameter. Repot every 18 to 24 months or when roots begin to circle the pot.
🌱 Growth rate: Growth is moderate. Expect one to two new leaves every few months under optimal conditions. Over six months, you might see three to four leaves; in a year, six to eight. At maturity, the plant can reach 60 to 90 centimetres in height and spread.
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Feed monthly during spring and summer with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength. Pause fertilizing in autumn and winter when growth slows.
🐾 Pet friendly: No. Anthurium regale is toxic to cats, dogs, and other pets. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals which can cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if ingested.

WHERE TO PUT IT
Anthurium regale thrives in bathrooms with windows, where natural humidity levels are higher. It also does well in living rooms or bedrooms with consistent warmth and access to bright, filtered light. A spot near an east or north-facing window is ideal. Avoid placing it in drafty areas, near heating vents, or in rooms with low humidity like basements. Keep it away from windowsills that receive harsh afternoon sun.