Anthurium scandens (Aubl.) Engl.

Taxonomic Classification

Anthurium scandens (Aubl.) Engl. is a plant species belonging to the genus Anthurium.

Continental Distribution

It is native to the region stretching from Mexico to Southeast Brazil, and is the most widely distributed Anthurium species found across the Americas.

Caribbean Distribution

Its range also extends into the Caribbean, covering areas such as Haiti, Puerto Rico, Jamaica and other Caribbean nations.

Growth Form and Foliage

This species is an epiphyte that grows with green, elliptical leaves and produces white berries.

Etymology of Scientific Name

Its scientific name references its characteristic scandent, or climbing, growth habit.

Intrageneric Variability

It is the most common and most variable species in the genus Anthurium, with multiple recognized subspecies occurring throughout its distribution range.

Morphological Differentiation from Related Species

It is most frequently confused with the species Anthurium trinerve, but the two can be told apart by the shape of the spathe during flowering: on Anthurium scandens the spathe curves backward (reflexes) when the plant blooms, while on Anthurium trinerve the spathe remains upright.

Folk Medicinal Use

In some regions, the plant is used in folk medicine, where a medicinal tincture is prepared from its roots.