Advertisement

Houseplant of the week: white-veined clarinervium

<span>Photograph: Fabrizio Guarisco/Shutterstock</span>
Photograph: Fabrizio Guarisco/Shutterstock

Why will I love it?
Anthurium clarinervium, to give it its proper name, has become quite the brag plant, with its large, velvety, heart-shaped leaves growing to a whopping 30cm in length. The foliage is dark green on top and lighter on the underside, made even more eye-catching by the prominent white veins that sprout from a central vein.

Light or shade?
Bright to medium indirect light; avoid low light such as a dark corner, or direct sunlight on a south-facing windowsill.

Where shall I put it?
An east-facing windowsill in a warm, humid kitchen or bathroom, or on a side table by a bright window.

How do I keep it alive?
Pretty easy. In the wild it’s an epiphyte – growing on another plant or tree, shaded by leaves – so it’s unused to direct sunlight. It appreciates warmth (18-22C) and high humidity, so misting is essential. Water weekly, allowing only the top 5cm of soil to dry out.

Did you know …
All parts of the plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic to cats, dogs and children when ingested. So keep out of reach of small hands and furry paws.