How to Grow and Care for Bird’s Nest Anthurium (Anthurium plowmanii)

If you want to bring the lush, dramatic feel of a deep tropical rainforest into your home or patio, the Bird’s Nest Anthurium is the perfect candidate. At Plantjoys, we often recommend this plant for those who want a "big leaf" look that is tougher and more resilient than many other wide tropical varieties.

Known scientifically as Anthurium plowmanii, and often called the "Wave of Love" because of its beautifully rippled leaf edges, this plant is a true masterpiece of nature.

What Makes the Bird’s Nest Anthurium Special?

Unlike the Anthuriums you see in flower shops with bright red spathes, the Bird’s Nest variety is grown for its spectacular foliage.

• The Rosette Form: It grows in a "nest" shape, with leaves radiating outward from a central base.¹

• The Texture: The leaves are thick, leathery, and glossy, featuring a wavy "wave" pattern along the margins that adds movement to the plant's silhouette.²

• Size: Over time, these leaves can grow quite large, making it a fantastic focal point for a shaded garden corner or a large decorative pot in your office.

  
  

Quick Care Summary

Feature	Requirement
Light	Bright, indirect light (No direct sun)
Water	When topsoil is dry; avoid sogginess
Soil	Airy, well-draining mix (Compost + Bark)
Climate	Thrives in warm, humid weather (Perfect for Cambodia)
Safety	Toxic to pets and children

Detailed Growing Guide

1. The Perfect Light

The Bird’s Nest Anthurium is an understory plant, meaning it naturally grows under the canopy of larger trees.³

• Best Spot: A veranda, a shaded balcony, or near a bright window indoors.

• What to Avoid: Keep it out of the harsh midday sun. Direct sunlight will quickly burn those beautiful, deep-green leaves, leaving brown, crispy patches.

2. Soil and Planting

Roots need to breathe! Because these plants can sometimes grow as epiphytes (on trees) in nature, they prefer loose, well-draining soil.⁴

• The Mix: Use a loose, "chunky" soil. At Plantjoys, we recommend mixing standard garden soil with organic compost and plenty of wood bark or coconut husks to ensure air reaches the roots.

• The Pot: Always use a pot with large drainage holes.⁵

  
  

3. Watering Habits

Overwatering is the number one killer of Anthuriums.

• The Touch Test: Stick your finger about 2cm into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.

• Seasonal Changes: During the rainy season in Cambodia, the air is humid and the soil stays wet longer—reduce your watering frequency during this time to prevent root rot.

  
  

4. Maintenance for a Show-Stopping Look

• Leaf Cleaning: Because the leaves are so large and glossy, they tend to collect dust.⁶ Wipe them with a soft, damp cloth once a week. This doesn't just make them look better, it helps the plant breathe and photosynthesize!

• Feeding: Apply a layer of organic compost or a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 1–2 months to maintain steady growth and a deep green color.

Common Troubleshooting

• Yellowing Leaves: Usually a sign that the soil is staying too wet. Let it dry out more between waterings.

• Brown Edges: This usually means the air is too dry or the plant is getting a bit too much sun.

• Slow Growth: If your plant hasn't put out a new leaf in a long time, it may need more nutrients, or it might be time to repot it into a slightly larger home.

A Note on Safety

While beautiful, the Bird’s Nest Anthurium contains calcium oxalate crystals.⁷ This makes the plant toxic if chewed or swallowed. Keep it on a high stand or in a protected area if you have curious pets or small children.

Why We Love It at Plantjoys

It is rare to find a plant that is so easy to care for but offers such a massive visual reward. Whether you are a beginner or a collector, the "Wave of Love" brings a calming, tropical energy to any space it inhabits.