Anthurium Forgetii: The Velvet-Leaf Collector Plant Everyone Falls For

Anthurium Forgetii is one of those plants that doesn’t shout for attention — it quietly steals it. If you’re into velvety leaves, unusual shapes, and plants that look like they belong in a high-end botanical gallery, Forgetii sits right at the top of that list. It’s a favourite among collectors because of its unique structure and that soft, rich texture you can’t help staring at.

Let’s dive into how it looks, how it behaves, and how to keep it alive without drama.

What Anthurium Forgetii Looks Like

Anthurium Forgetii has a very distinctive look compared to other anthuriums:

1. The Iconic No-Sinus Leaf Shape

Most anthuriums have leaves that dip inward at the top, forming a little “V”. Forgetii doesn’t. Its leaves form a perfect teardrop shape that’s smooth at the top, giving it a very sleek and elegant silhouette.

2. Deep Velvet Texture

The leaves are velvety, almost suede-like, and they absorb light rather than reflect it. This gives the whole plant that moody, luxurious look people go crazy for.

3. Bold Silver Veining

Forgetii’s veining stands out dramatically against the dark leaf surface. As it matures and its leaves get bigger, the contrast becomes even more striking.

4. Compact but Impressive

It doesn’t turn into a huge floor plant. It stays relatively compact, but the leaves themselves get big — think bold, oversized foliage on a smaller plant frame. Great for a statement shelf or tabletop spot.

How to Care for Anthurium Forgetii (Realistic, No-Nonsense Guide)

Forgetii is a bit sensitive, but not impossible. It just has opinions. Here’s how to keep it happy without guesswork.

1. Light: Bright, Indirect, and Consistent

Forgetii wants strong filtered light, not harsh sun.

If the light is too low, expect:

• Smaller leaves

• Faded colour

• Slow or no growth

If the light is too harsh:

• Burn marks

• Dry patches

• Crispy edges

Best placement: near a bright window with sheer curtains or pulled slightly back from direct sun.

2. Humidity: This Is Not Optional

Forgetii LOVES humidity. Aim for 60 percent and higher.

Low humidity leads to:

• Dull leaves

• Brown edges

• Leaves that don’t unfurl properly

Ideal setup:

• Greenhouse cabinet

• Humidifier nearby

• Grouping with other plants

• Placed in your greenhouse tunnel if you’re propagating or growing seriously

3. Watering: Keep Even Moisture, Never Wet

These velvet Anthuriums don’t want to sit in soggy soil, but they also hate drying out completely.

Water when:

The top 3 cm of soil feels lightly dry.

Do not:

• Water on a schedule

• Let it dry to dust

• Drench it “just in case”

Signs of overwatering:

• Yellow patches

• Soft spots on leaves

• Mushy roots

• Leaf drop

Signs of underwatering:

• Crispy edges

• Leaves curling slightly

• Slow growth

4. Soil Mix: Light, Airy, Draining

Forgetii thrives in a chunky, breathable mix that lets water flow through but still holds moisture.

A good blend:

• Fine orchid bark

• Perlite

• Cocopeat or fine airy soil

• Sphagnum moss mixed in lightly

This keeps the roots moist but not suffocated.

5. Fertilizing: Steady and Mild

Forgetii doesn’t want strong fertilizer blasting its roots.

Go for:

• A gentle liquid fertilizer

• Diluted to half strength

• Every 2 to 3 weeks in growing season

During winter: once a month, lightly.

6. Temperature: Warm and Stable

The sweet spot is 20 to 28 degrees.

Under 18 degrees, it slows down and sulks.

Avoid:

• Drafts

• Cold windows

• Aircons blowing directly on it

Common Problems and What They Mean

Yellow Leaves

Most likely overwatering, or soil staying too wet.

Check roots immediately.

Brown Crispy Edges

Humidity is too low, or you’re underwatering.

Faded Veining

Light is too low. Move it brighter.

Deformed or Stuck Leaves

Usually humidity or inconsistent watering.

Sometimes pests, so check the undersides.

Black Spots

Cold drafts or fungal issues from too much moisture sitting on leaves.

Final Thoughts

Anthurium Forgetii isn’t a plant you buy for “easy houseplant vibes”. You buy it because it’s stunning and you’re willing to meet it halfway. With steady humidity, the right light, and a breathable mix, it rewards you with those velvety, dramatic leaves that look like they belong in a collector’s display.