Introduce dramatic, cascading foliage to your collection with this Anthurium Double, featuring two spectacular strap-leaf varieties: Anthurium wendlingeri and Anthurium vittarifolium.

Unlike the more familiar heart-shaped Anthuriums, these tropical plants produce exceptionally long, narrow leaves that hang elegantly from the pot. Their trailing growth habit makes them particularly well suited to a hanging planter, tall plant stand or raised shelf where the foliage has plenty of room to develop.

Anthurium wendlingeri

Anthurium wendlingeri is a highly sought-after tropical species known for its long, rippled leaves and extraordinary corkscrew-shaped flowers. As the plant matures, its dark green leaves can develop into impressive trailing ribbons, creating a wonderfully sculptural appearance.

The plant’s unusual inflorescence is one of its most distinctive features. Rather than producing a conventional Anthurium flower, it develops a long, twisted spadix that curls into a spiral. Flowering is not guaranteed indoors, but mature plants kept in warm, humid conditions may reward careful growers with this remarkable display.

Anthurium vittarifolium

Anthurium vittarifolium produces smooth, slender, strap-like leaves that cascade gracefully from the centre of the plant. The leaves become progressively longer as the plant matures and can eventually create an impressive curtain of green foliage.

Its streamlined form provides a beautiful contrast to the more textured leaves of Anthurium wendlingeri. When displayed together, the two plants create a striking combination of flowing foliage, subtle texture and unusual tropical character.

Each plant is naturally variable. Leaf length, shape, colour and markings may differ from the photographs, while young plants may not yet display the exceptionally long foliage associated with mature specimens.

Detailed Care Guide

Light

Position these Anthuriums in bright, indirect light. A location close to an east- or west-facing window is usually ideal, provided the leaves are protected from intense direct sunlight.

Gentle morning or late-afternoon sun may be tolerated, but strong midday sunlight can scorch the foliage and cause bleached or brown patches. Insufficient light may result in slower growth, smaller leaves and longer gaps between new leaves.

If natural light is limited, a suitable grow light can help maintain steady growth.

Watering

Water when the upper 2–4cm of the growing medium feels slightly dry. Water thoroughly, allowing the excess to drain completely before returning the plant to its decorative pot.

These Anthuriums prefer a growing medium that remains lightly and evenly moist but never saturated. Their roots require a balance of moisture and oxygen, so leaving the pot standing in water can quickly lead to root rot.

Watering frequency will vary according to the season, temperature, light level, pot size and growing medium. The plants will normally need watering more frequently during spring and summer and less often during the cooler, darker months.

Whenever possible, use rainwater, filtered water or another low-mineral water source. Anthuriums can be sensitive to the salts and minerals found in hard tap water, which may contribute to brown leaf tips.

Humidity

Both plants appreciate moderate to high humidity, ideally above 60%. Higher humidity can encourage healthier growth and help prevent the tips and edges of the long leaves from becoming dry or crisp.

A humidifier is the most reliable way to increase humidity. You can also position the plants together with other tropical plants, although good airflow must still be maintained.

Avoid placing them directly beside radiators, heaters, air-conditioning units or frequently opened doors, as sudden changes in temperature and dry air can damage the foliage.

Temperature

Maintain a warm and stable temperature of approximately 18–27°C. Avoid allowing the temperature to fall below 15°C for prolonged periods.

Protect the plants from cold draughts, sudden temperature changes and contact with cold window glass. These tropical Anthuriums may stop growing or develop leaf damage if exposed to cold conditions.

Soil

Use a loose, airy and well-draining growing medium. A suitable Anthurium mixture can include:

• Fine or medium-grade orchid bark
• Coco coir or high-quality houseplant compost
• Perlite or pumice
• Sphagnum moss
• A small amount of horticultural charcoal

The mixture should hold some moisture without becoming dense or waterlogged. Avoid using heavy, compacted compost on its own, as this can restrict airflow around the roots.

Feeding

Feed every two to four weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser diluted according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Reduce feeding during autumn and winter, particularly if growth has slowed. Avoid applying fertiliser to completely dry soil, as this may damage the roots.

Occasionally flushing the growing medium thoroughly with clean water can help remove accumulated fertiliser salts.

Repotting

Repot when the roots have filled the existing container, the growing medium has begun to break down or the plant is drying much more quickly than usual. This will typically be required every one to two years.

Choose a pot only slightly larger than the existing one and ensure it has adequate drainage holes. Oversized pots retain moisture for longer and can increase the risk of root rot.

Handle the long leaves carefully while repotting, as they can be damaged if bent, crushed or pulled.

Positioning and Support

These Anthuriums are natural trailing plants and do not usually need a moss pole. Display them in a hanging pot, on a tall stand or on a raised shelf so that the leaves can hang freely.

Make sure the developing leaves are not pressed against furniture or allowed to rest on the floor. Regular contact can cause creases, tears and damaged leaf tips.

Pruning and Cleaning

Pruning is rarely required. Remove yellow, damaged or spent leaves using clean, sharp scissors or secateurs, cutting close to the base of the leaf stem without damaging surrounding growth.

Gently wipe the leaves with a soft, damp cloth when dust accumulates. Avoid using commercial leaf-shine products, as these may leave a residue on the foliage.

Common Problems

Brown or crispy leaf tips: Usually associated with low humidity, inconsistent watering, hard water or excess fertiliser salts.

Yellow leaves: An occasional older yellow leaf is normal. Multiple yellow leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, cold conditions or root problems.

Curling or drooping foliage: The plant may be thirsty, exposed to very dry air or experiencing excessive heat. Check the growing medium before watering.

Small new leaves or slow growth: Often caused by insufficient light, low temperatures, nutrient deficiency or a plant that is still establishing its roots.

Black or soft areas: These may indicate cold damage, prolonged moisture on the leaves or root rot. Check the roots and growing conditions promptly.

Pests

Check regularly for spider mites, thrips, mealybugs and scale insects, paying particular attention to new growth and the undersides of the leaves.

Isolate affected plants and treat them promptly with an appropriate houseplant pest treatment. Repeated treatments may be needed because many products do not kill every stage of a pest’s lifecycle.

Toxicity

Anthuriums contain calcium oxalate crystals and are considered toxic if eaten. Keep them away from children and pets. Their sap may also irritate sensitive skin, so wash your hands after pruning or repotting.