Anthurium Coriaceum 'San Juan'

A locale selection of Anthurium coriaceum — the Leatherleaf or Giant Paddle-leaf Anthurium — originating from the San Juan region and recognized within the collector trade for its specific foliar character among the various geographic forms of this wide-ranging South American species. Anthurium coriaceum belongs to the bird's nest anthurium group, a morphologically distinct informal category defined by their rosette-forming, self-heading growth habit in which multiple long leaves arise from a central crown and arch outward in a bowl-like arrangement that collects rainfall and organic debris in its native forest habitat — a structural adaptation that places this species in a completely different visual and functional category from the climbing velvet anthuriums that dominate collector attention. The leaves themselves are the defining character: extremely long, elongated to paddle-shaped, thick, and leathery — the species name coriaceum meaning literally "leathery" — with a dark, rich green surface that develops a handsome semi-glossy finish at maturity, prominent impressed venation creating a subtly textured surface across each substantial leaf, and an elegant arching habit that gives well-grown specimens a commanding, almost tropical-canopy presence. Individual leaves on mature plants can reach impressive lengths, making this one of the more architecturally scaled bird's nest anthuriums in cultivation. The 'San Juan' locale designation tracks provenance and clone character in the manner increasingly common among serious collectors of geographic anthurium forms.

As a bird's nest species A. coriaceum is best grown in a wide, appropriately scaled pot that accommodates the rosette's spreading crown — it does not climb and requires no pole or support. Provide bright to medium indirect light; the species is relatively adaptable across a reasonable light range and tolerates somewhat lower light than many collector anthuriums without losing its character, though brighter indirect light produces the largest, most richly colored leaves. Keep the medium consistently but lightly moist in a rich, well-draining mix of orchid bark, coco coir, and perlite — the bird's nest habit in nature relies on collected debris for nutrition, so a moderately fertile substrate supports the best growth. Humidity above 60% supports the healthiest leaf development. Maintain warm temperatures between 60-80°F. Toxic to humans and pets if ingested.