For centuries, this vining aroid has crept through tropical canopies, yet few gardeners realize its potential as a hanging specimen. The anthurium scandens is a true gem for those who want something different from the typical potted plant. It is a fast-growing, epiphytic climber that produces clusters of small, pearl-like berries that change color as they mature.
Unlike its showy cousin, the flamingo flower, this species is subtle. It charms with delicate, heart-shaped leaves and a cascading growth habit. If you are looking for a low-maintenance houseplant with a wild, jungle vibe, this is it.
This guide covers everything you need to know about growing and caring for this unique plant. We will talk about light, water, soil, and how to propagate it successfully. You will also learn how to encourage those charming berry clusters.
What Is Anthurium Scandens?
Anthurium scandens is often called the “pearl laceleaf” or “bird’s nest anthurium,” though the latter name is less common. It is native to the rainforests of Central and South America. In its natural habitat, it grows up tree trunks and along branches, using its aerial roots to anchor itself.
It is an epiphyte, meaning it grows on other plants for support but does not take nutrients from them. It gets its moisture and nutrients from the air, rain, and debris that collects around its roots. This makes it an excellent candidate for mounting on wood or growing in a hanging basket.
One of the most appealing features is the berry clusters. After the small, greenish-white flowers are pollinated, they develop into tiny berries. These berries start out white or pale green and gradually turn a deep purple or black when fully ripe. They look like little pearls, hence the common name.
Why Grow This Vining Aroid?
There are several reasons why this plant deserves a spot in your collection. First, it is incredibly forgiving. It tolerates a wider range of conditions than many other anthuriums. Second, it is a vigorous grower. With the right care, it can quickly fill a basket or cover a moss pole.
Third, it is a conversation starter. The berry clusters are unusual and beautiful. Watching them change color over several weeks is a rewarding experience. Finally, it is not a common plant in big-box stores. Growing one gives you a unique piece of the rainforest in your living room.
Key Characteristics
- Growth Habit: Climbing or trailing, depending on support.
- Leaf Shape: Thin, lance-shaped to ovate, with a pointed tip.
- Leaf Texture: Glossy, sometimes with a slightly leathery feel.
- Mature Height: Can reach 3-6 feet (1-2 meters) when climbing.
- Flowers: Small, greenish-white spathes and spadices.
- Fruit: Clusters of berries, turning from white to dark purple.
Light Requirements For Anthurium Scandens
Getting the light right is the most important part of caring for this plant. In the wild, it grows under the forest canopy. This means it receives dappled, filtered sunlight, not direct sun. Bright, indirect light is the sweet spot for indoor growth.
Place it near an east-facing window or a few feet away from a south or west-facing window. A sheer curtain can help filter harsh afternoon sun. If the light is too low, the plant will become leggy. The leaves will stretch out, and the internodes (the spaces between leaves) will get longer.
If the light is too intense, the leaves will scorch. You will see brown, crispy patches on the foliage. If you notice this, move the plant to a shadier spot immediately. A good rule of thumb is to provide the same light you would for a phalaenopsis orchid.
Signs Of Improper Lighting
- Too Much Light: Pale, yellowing leaves with brown tips or patches.
- Too Little Light: Dark green, elongated stems with sparse leaves.
- Good Light: Compact growth with vibrant, glossy green leaves.
Watering And Humidity Needs
This plant likes consistency but hates soggy feet. Overwatering is the number one cause of death for anthurium scandens. The roots need oxygen, and if they sit in water, they will rot. The best approach is to water thoroughly when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry.
Stick your finger into the potting mix. If it feels dry at the first knuckle, it is time to water. When you do water, do it slowly and evenly. Let the water run out of the drainage holes. Never let the pot sit in a saucer of standing water.
Humidity is another factor. While this plant is more tolerant of dry air than other anthuriums, it appreciates higher humidity. Aim for at least 50% relative humidity. If your home is dry, especially in winter, consider using a humidifier or placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
How To Water Properly
- Check the soil moisture with your finger.
- Water deeply until water flows from the drainage holes.
- Empty the saucer after 15 minutes.
- Wait until the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry before watering again.
Best Soil And Potting Mix
Because it is an epiphyte, anthurium scandens needs a chunky, airy potting mix. Standard potting soil is too dense and will hold too much water. You need a mix that mimics the bark and leaf litter it grows on in the wild. A good mix should drain quickly while retaining some moisture.
An orchid bark mix is a great base. You can also make your own. Combine equal parts of orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss or coco coir. This creates a mix that is light, fluffy, and allows air to reach the roots. The bark provides structure, the perlite ensures drainage, and the coir retains a bit of moisture.
When repotting, choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the root ball. This plant likes to be somewhat root-bound. A pot that is too large will hold excess moisture and increase the risk of root rot. Terracotta pots are a good choice because they are porous and help the soil dry out faster.
Recommended Mix Recipe
- 1 part orchid bark (medium grade)
- 1 part perlite
- 1 part coco coir or sphagnum peat moss
- A handful of horticultural charcoal (optional, helps with freshness)
Fertilizing Your Plant
Anthurium scandens is not a heavy feeder. In the wild, it gets nutrients from decaying organic matter. Indoors, you need to provide a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Feed it monthly from spring through early autumn. Stop fertilizing in the winter when growth slows down.
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. A formula like 20-20-20 works well. You can also use a fertilizer formulated for orchids or aroids. Always water the plant before fertilizing to avoid burning the roots. If you see salt buildup on the top of the soil, flush the pot with clean water.
Over-fertilizing can cause brown leaf tips and a white crust on the soil. If this happens, leach the soil by running a large amount of water through the pot. Then, skip fertilizing for a month or two to let the plant recover.
Support And Training
This plant is a climber by nature. In the wild, it uses its aerial roots to attach itself to tree bark. Indoors, you can train it to climb a moss pole, a piece of driftwood, or a trellis. Alternatively, you can let it trail from a hanging basket. Both methods produce beautiful results.
If you choose to let it climb, provide a support structure. A moss pole is ideal because it retains moisture and gives the aerial roots something to grip. Gently guide the stems toward the pole and use soft plant ties to secure them. The aerial roots will eventually attach on their own.
If you prefer a trailing look, plant it in a hanging basket. The stems will cascade over the sides, creating a lush, green curtain. This is a fantastic way to display the plant and is probably the most common method for indoor growers.
How To Attach To A Moss Pole
- Insert the moss pole into the center of the pot before planting.
- Place the plant next to the pole.
- Use soft twist ties or plant clips to secure the stem to the pole.
- Mist the moss pole regularly to encourage aerial roots to grow into it.
Propagation Methods
Propagating anthurium scandens is simple and rewarding. The most reliable method is stem cuttings. You can also propagate by division if the plant has multiple stems. Both methods are easy for beginners and have a high success rate.
For stem cuttings, you need a piece of stem with at least two or three nodes. Nodes are the bumps where leaves and roots emerge. Cut just below a node with a clean, sharp pair of scissors. Remove the lower leaves, leaving one or two at the top.
You can root the cutting in water or directly in a moist potting mix. Water rooting is fun because you can watch the roots grow. Change the water every few days. Once the roots are about an inch long, transfer the cutting to soil. Keep the soil consistently moist for the first few weeks.
Step-by-Step Stem Cutting Propagation
- Select a healthy stem with 2-3 nodes.
- Cut below a node using sterilized scissors.
- Remove the bottom leaves.
- Place the cutting in a glass of water or moist sphagnum moss.
- Wait for roots to develop (2-4 weeks).
- Plant the rooted cutting in a chunky aroid mix.
- Keep it in bright, indirect light and high humidity.
Common Pests And Problems
Like most houseplants, anthurium scandens can be susceptible to a few pests. The most common are spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. These pests can weaken the plant and cause leaf damage. Regular inspection is key to catching infestations early.
Spider mites are tiny and hard to see. They cause stippling on the leaves and fine webbing. Mealybugs look like small, white cottony masses. Scale appears as brown, oval bumps on the stems and leaves. Treat any infestation with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Wipe the leaves down and repeat the treatment weekly.
Root rot is the most common disease, caused by overwatering. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, mushy stems, and a foul smell from the soil. If you suspect root rot, remove the plant from the pot. Cut away any black or mushy roots and repot in fresh, dry mix.
Quick Pest Reference
- Spider Mites: Fine webbing, yellow stippling. Treat with neem oil.
- Mealybugs: White cottony clusters. Dab with rubbing alcohol.
- Scale: Brown hard bumps. Scrape off and apply insecticidal soap.
- Fungus Gnats: Small flies in the soil. Let the soil dry out more.
Why Are The Leaves Turning Yellow?
Yellow leaves are a common issue with this plant. The most frequent cause is overwatering. If the soil is staying wet for too long, the roots suffocate and the leaves turn yellow. Check your watering habits and ensure the pot has good drainage. Let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again.
Another cause is a lack of nutrients. If the plant has not been fertilized in a while, older leaves may yellow and drop. Feed it with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Sometimes, yellowing is just the natural aging process. If only the oldest leaves at the base are yellowing, it is likely nothing to worry about.
If you see yellowing accompanied by brown spots, it could be a fungal issue. Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid getting water on the leaves. Remove any affected foliage to prevent the spread of disease.
Is Anthurium Scandens Toxic To Pets?
Yes, like all anthuriums, this plant contains calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals are toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested. Chewing on the leaves can cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing. It is not typically fatal, but it is very uncomfortable.
Keep this plant out of reach of curious pets and small children. If you suspect your pet has eaten a significant amount, contact your veterinarian immediately. The symptoms are usually mild, but it is always best to be safe. Consider placing the plant on a high shelf or in a hanging basket away from pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does anthurium scandens grow?
It is a moderately fast grower. With adequate light and humidity, you can expect several new leaves per month during the growing season. Growth slows down in the winter.
Can I grow anthurium scandens in water only?
Yes, you can grow it in water long-term, but it will not thrive as well as in soil. The stems will root, but the plant may not get enough nutrients. If you grow it in water, add a diluted liquid fertilizer occasionally.
Why is my anthurium scandens not producing berries?
Berries only form after successful pollination. Indoors, there are no natural pollinators. You can try hand-pollinating the small flowers with a soft brush. Even then, berry production is not guaranteed.
Does this plant need a moss pole?
No, it is optional. It can grow beautifully in a hanging basket without any support. A moss pole is only needed if you want it to climb vertically.
What is the ideal temperature range?
It prefers warm conditions between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Avoid temperatures below 55°F (13°C) and keep it away from cold drafts.
Final Care Summary
Growing anthurium scandens is not difficult if you remember a few key points. Provide bright, indirect light. Water only when the top inch of soil is dry. Use a chunky, well-draining potting mix. Keep it in a warm, humid environment. Feed it lightly during the growing season.
This plant is a rewarding addition to any indoor garden. Its cascading stems and pearl-like berries offer a unique texture that few other houseplants can match. Whether you let it climb a moss pole or trail from a basket, it will bring a touch of the tropical rainforest into your home.
It is a plant that rewards patience. The berries take months to mature, but the wait is worth it. The transition from white to deep purple is a slow, beautiful process. Once you see it, you will understand why this vining aroid has been a favorite among plant collectors for generations.
So, if you are ready for a plant that is a little different, give this one a try. It is forgiving, beautiful, and full of surprises. With the care tips in this guide, you will be well on your way to growing a lush, healthy specimen that will be the envy of your plant friends.
Remmeber to check your plant reguarly for pests and adjust your watering schedule based on the season. In the summer, it may need water more often. In the winter, you can cut back significantly. Always trust your finger over a strict schedule.
One final tip: do not be afraid to prune. If your plant gets too long or leggy, trim it back. You can use the cuttings to propagate new plants. This keeps the mother plant bushy and full. Pruning also encourages new growth from the base.
With a little attention and the right conditions, your anthurium scandens will thrive for years. It is a resilient, fascinating plant that offers endless enjoyment. Happy growing, and enjoy the journey of watching this tropical gem flourish in your care.