Discover the magnificent Anthurium 'King of Spades' (KOS), a highly sought-after hybrid prized for its striking aesthetic. This rare aroid features dramatic, thick, velvety foliage with prominent, architectural veining, making it a true centerpiece for any collector.
🌍 Origin & Heritage
The Anthurium 'King of Spades' is a creation of the renowned Indonesian hybridizer Haji Ulih, also known as "HU." Its unique lineage contributes to its status as a collector's dream plant, bringing a touch of the exotic to your indoor jungle.
✨ Key Features
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Foliage: Massive, elongated shield-shaped leaves that can unfurl with stunning copper or pinkish undertones, maturing to deep, rich hues.
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Texture & Color: Experience the luxurious deep velvety-green to nearly black finish, beautifully contrasted by crisp, pale structural veins that create a truly architectural look.
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Growth Habit: An upright, slow-maturing cultivar that rewards patient growers with increasingly grand foliage as it establishes size and majesty.
💚 Care Instructions
Cultivating the Anthurium 'King of Spades' requires attention to specific conditions to ensure its health and stunning display.
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☀️ Light: Provide bright, indirect light (ideally 500 to 1000 foot-candles). Avoid harsh direct midday sun, which can scorch its delicate velvet leaves.
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💧 Watering: Allow the top 2–4 cm of the substrate to dry out completely between waterings. Excellent drainage is crucial to prevent root rot, ensuring the plant remains healthy.
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🌱 Substrate: Use a chunky, airy, and well-draining aroid mix. A blend of orchid bark, perlite, sphagnum moss, charcoal, and coco chips is recommended to mimic its natural habitat.
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♨️ Humidity: This Anthurium thrives in high-humidity environments, ideally between 65% and 80%. A dedicated humid cabinet or greenhouse setting will help it flourish.
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🌡️ Temperature: Maintain a warm environment, ideally between 18°C and 28°C. This cultivar is highly cold-sensitive; ensure temperatures never drop below 15°C.
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🍽️ Feeding: During its active growing season, apply a balanced, foliage-focused liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks. Supplementing with silica can help prevent leaf curling and promote stronger growth.
📏 Size & Dimensions
The 'King of Spades' is a majestic plant that grows to an impressive size over time, making a significant statement piece in any collection. Young plants will be smaller, gradually developing their iconic large leaves.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Anthurium 'King of Spades' difficult to care for?
A: While it requires specific conditions like high humidity and indirect light, it is manageable for experienced plant enthusiasts or those willing to provide its ideal environment.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Anthurium 'King of Spades' curling?
A: Leaf curling can be an indicator of low humidity, insufficient watering, or nutrient deficiencies. Ensure humidity levels are high (65-80%) and consider supplementing with silica during feeding.
Q: What is the ideal potting mix for this Anthurium?
A: A chunky, well-draining aroid mix is essential. A blend containing orchid bark, perlite, sphagnum moss, charcoal, and coco chips provides the aeration and drainage it needs.