Anthurium forgetii – Velvet Shield Plant

The large, velvety leaves of this Anthurium are striking, and are a great addition to any collection. This rare foliage is silvered with shimmering veins, and forms a striking shield shape. New leaves grow with a tint of orange, and mature to a fresh mid-green. To keep this collector's item happy, make sure you're keeping it in high humidity, allowing the soil to dry a little between waters, and ensuring it's somewhere bright without scorching direct sun. Growing epiphytically in its native Colombia, remember that this plant needs plenty of air around its roots, and won't thank you for heavy soil or heavy watering. Keep it happy and you'll have a shimmering addition to your collection, with large, showy leaves, for years to come.

Scientific Name
Anthurium forgetii (Forget's flower-tail)

This plant classification was first published in 1906.

Common Name
Velvet Shield Plant, Forgetii

Origin
This plant is native to Colombia, South America, where it grows in tropical cloud forests.

Light
Harsh direct sun can scorch the leaves, so your Anthurium will do best in bright but indirect light, though it can cope with a splash of morning or evening sun.

Water
Let the top third of the soil dry out before watering again; reduce watering in autumn and winter but make sure it doesn't entirely dry out. As an epiphyte, your Anthurium needs plenty of air around its roots, but it also won't like to dry out entirely.

Humidity
This plant thrives in high humidity - ideally, 60-80%. Using a pebble tray or humidifier can help keep it happy - signs of too-low humidity include crispy brown leaf edges, with yellow halos.

Soil
A mix designed for epiphytes like Anthuriums and Orchids will work well. Make sure it has plenty of bark for aeration and drainage. Repot every three years or so when absolutely necessary, when the plant has outgrown the pot.

Food
Feed every couple of weeks in spring and summer, reduce to every month in autumn and winter. Roots are sensitive so take care with fertilisers which pour directly into the soil.

Temperature
Likes warmer temperatures, must stay between 12-28°C

Pet-safe
No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans.

Sprouts Top Tips
The key with this one is moisture in the right places- it does not like soggy roots but does like high humidity, so try misting it or introducing a humidity tray rather than watering into the soil every time!