Anthurium 'Michelle'® – Details and Essential Care
Anthurium 'Michelle'® is a breathtaking hybrid of Anthurium magnificum, meticulously crafted through generations of selective breeding. Though not officially recognized as a distinct cultivar, it remains highly sought after for its unique aesthetic features and superior genetics. Originally shared by Tim Anderson of Daisy Farm, Inc. in the mid–to–late 1980s, it was later perfected by Dr. Jeff Block, who named it after his wife, 'Michelle'.
The foliage of Anthurium 'Michelle'® showcases an extraordinary gradient of colors. Emerging leaves feature a stunning burgundy to violet hue with pronounced lighter veins, transitioning through black tones before maturing into a rich dark green with crisp white vein contrasts. The leaf underside evolves from purple to lavender tones, maturing into light green with darker vein contrasts matching the petiole.
Key Highlights of Anthurium 'Michelle'®:

  
Vibrant Foliage: Emergent leaves display burgundy to violet hues with lighter veins, maturing to deep green with contrasting white veins.
  
Dual–Toned Underside: Features a gradient from purple to lavender to light green with dark veins.
  
Unique Petiole and Spadix: Violet petioles and a matching violet spadix add distinctive character.

What You Should Know About Anthurium 'Michelle'®
This remarkable hybrid stems from the lineage of Anthurium magnificum, native to the tropical rainforests of Colombia. In its natural habitat, temperatures hover between 18–25°C, and humidity remains high, around 60–80%. Indoors, Anthurium 'Michelle'® can achieve a height of 60–90 cm with a proportional spread. Its upright, self-heading growth habit adds architectural appeal to any space, while its growth rate is moderate, ensuring long-lasting beauty.
Toxicity Alert: Anthurium 'Michelle'® contains calcium oxalate crystals, which are harmful if ingested by pets or humans. Handle with care and keep it out of reach from curious pets or children.
Caring for Anthurium 'Michelle'®

  
Light: Place Anthurium 'Michelle'® in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn. Lower light conditions may slow growth but won’t harm the plant.
  
Watering: Allow the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry before watering. Avoid soggy conditions to prevent root rot.
  
Humidity: Maintain high humidity levels (60–80%). Consider using a humidifier or clustering plants to create a microclimate.
  
Temperature: Keep Anthurium 'Michelle'® in a stable range of 18–25°C, avoiding cold drafts and temperature fluctuations.
  
Soil: Use a chunky, well-draining mix with orchid bark, perlite, and compost for aeration and nutrition. Ensure the mix retains some moisture without becoming waterlogged.
  
Fertilizer: Apply a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn.
  
Repotting and Pot Choice: Repot Anthurium 'Michelle'® every 1–2 years or when root-bound, using a pot one size larger. Choose pots with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
  
Propagation: Propagate via stem cuttings with aerial roots. Place cuttings in water, semi-hydroponic setups, or moist soil for best results.
  
Semi– and Hydroponics: Anthurium 'Michelle'® thrives in semi-hydroponic setups with Leca or similar mediums, provided humidity and nutrients are well-managed.
  
Pruning: Trim any dead or damaged leaves to promote healthy growth. Regular pruning also helps maintain its compact shape.
  
Placement: Ensure good airflow around the plant to prevent fungal issues. Avoid drafty windows or vents that can cause stress.

Troubleshooting and Solutions for Anthurium 'Michelle'®

  
Yellowing Leaves: Often caused by overwatering. Adjust your watering schedule and use a well-draining mix.
  
Browning Edges: Indicates low humidity or excessive fertilization. Increase humidity or reduce fertilizer concentration.
  
Root Rot: Caused by waterlogged soil. Repot immediately, removing damaged roots and using fresh, dry potting mix.
  
Leaf Spotting: Fungal issues from prolonged moisture on leaves. Ensure proper airflow and avoid overhead watering.

Pests to Watch For:

  
Spider Mites: Look for fine webbing and treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
  
Mealybugs: Wipe off pests with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
  
Aphids: Rinse leaves with water and apply insecticidal solutions if needed.


  
Drooping Leaves: Often due to underwatering or sudden temperature changes. Ensure consistent care and check soil moisture.
  
Browning Leaf Tips: Frequently caused by water quality issues. Use distilled or rainwater to avoid mineral buildup.

Additional Considerations for Anthurium 'Michelle'®
To mimic its natural environment, ensure high humidity and good airflow around the plant. Adding a moss pole can provide extra support as it grows. Researching the plant's origins and natural growth conditions will further guide you in providing optimal care, ensuring Anthurium 'Michelle'® thrives for years.
Etymology
The genus name Anthurium is derived from Greek, meaning "flower" (anthos) and "tail" (oura), referring to its distinctive spadix. The cultivar name ‘Michelle’ was chosen by Dr. Jeff Block, honoring his wife.
FAQs About Anthurium 'Michelle'®

  
How tall does Anthurium 'Michelle'® grow? Indoors, it reaches 60–90 cm in height with a proportional spread, depending on care.
  
Is Anthurium 'Michelle'® pet-friendly? No, it contains compounds that are toxic to pets and humans. Keep it out of reach.
  
What’s the best way to propagate it? Use stem cuttings with aerial roots, placing them in water, semi-hydroponic setups, or moist soil until they root.

Order Your Anthurium 'Michelle'® Today!
Bring a rare, vibrant masterpiece into your home! Order Anthurium 'Michelle'® now and enjoy the elegance of this exceptional hybrid in your plant collection.