Anthurium cubense
 
Common Names Cuban Anthurium, Lance-Leaf Anthurium
 
Zones 10A–11 (outdoors); Zone 8B+ with protection
 
Anthurium cubense is a rare tropical species native to Cuba, southeastern Mexico, Central America, and parts of northern South America. Known for its elongated, lance-shaped leaves and reddish petioles, this species offers a sleek, architectural presence in interiorscapes and warm-climate gardens. It is occasionally used in hybridization, including as a parent of the massive-leaved ‘Big Bill’ cultivar1.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Upright, elegant; moderate growth rate
Height: 3–6 ft. tall; 2–4 ft. wide
Trunk: Herbaceous; short internodes with basal swelling
Leaves: Lanceolate; glossy green with smooth margins and prominent central vein; 18–36 in. long
Petiole: Slender, reddish-brown to maroon; upright and arching
Inflorescence: Pale green spathe with creamy white spadix; may appear seasonally in mature specimens
Fruit: Rarely produced in cultivation; small berries if pollinated
Ecology: Native to humid tropical forests; adapted for high humidity and filtered light2
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Bright indirect light to part shade; avoid direct sun
Watering: Keep substrate consistently moist but not soggy; allow top inch to dry slightly
Soil: Loose, airy mix rich in organic matter; ideal blend includes sphagnum moss, orchid bark, perlite, and compost
Temperature: 64–80°F (18–27°C); protect from cold drafts and frost
Humidity: High (70–90%); misting, humidifiers, or terrarium culture recommended
Propagation: By division or stem cuttings with aerial roots
Tolerance: Sensitive to low humidity and overwatering; not drought-tolerant
 
Landscape Use Best suited for tropical interiorscapes, greenhouse collections, and shaded patio containers. Pairs well with Anthurium pendulifolium, Philodendron ‘Dean McDowell’, and Monstera dubia for layered foliage compositions.