Name: Anthurium lapoanum Croat, D.P.Hannon & Hormell

Etymology: The genus name Anthurium derives from the Greek words anthos (“flower”) and oura (“tail”). The specific epithet lapoanum honors Lester Lapo, who was associated with Ecuagenera at the time of its discovery.

First description: 2021 by Thomas B. Croat, D.P. Hannon, and Hormell.

Origin/Distribution: Ecuador.

Location/Habitat: Terrestrial in the humid montane forests of the Cordillera del Cóndor. We grow this species under intermediate conditions at around 16–24 °C, with high humidity, good air circulation, and bright to semi-shaded indirect light. A loose, humus-rich, very airy aroid mix should be kept evenly and slightly moist.

Description and notes: Anthurium lapoanum has striking arrow-shaped to oblong leaves with a strongly undulating, textured surface. Under suitable growing conditions, a pronounced cuticle can develop, giving the foliage an attractive sheen. This species is particularly suited to collectors of unusual Anthurium foliage with distinctive texture.