Araceae
Spiny Cyrtosperma: Perfect Indoor Houseplant
Cyrtosperma johnstonii
Requires high humidity, constantly moist soil, and indirect light; as a swamp plant, it should never be allowed to dry out.
Every 3 days
Partial shade
18° - 32°C
70% - 95%
Categories
What is Spiny Cyrtosperma?
Spiny Cyrtosperma (Cyrtosperma johnstonii) is a medium-care plant from the Araceae family. Cyrtosperma johnstonii is a stunning tropical aroid known for its massive, upward-pointing, arrow-shaped leaves. The leaf venation is bright red or pink when young, which can persist as the plant matures, creating a striking contrast against the dark green surface. The stems (petioles) are covered i...
Spiny Cyrtosperma grows up to 2.5m, spread of 150cm, watering every 3 days, 18°C – 32°C, 70–95% humidity. It is suitable for indoor environments and not safe for pets.
Without precautions, ingestion can cause irritation in pets. Keep out of reach of cats and dogs. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 7 days.
How to Care for Spiny Cyrtosperma?
TLDR: Spiny Cyrtosperma needs Partial shade, watering every 3 days, and temperatures between 18-32°C with 70-95% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Spiny Cyrtosperma?
The soil should always be wet; it can even have a small amount of standing water in the tray, as it is a swamp plant.
How Much Light Does Spiny Cyrtosperma Need?
Avoid direct midday sun as it can burn the leaves, but too little light will cause the red venation to fade.
What Is the Best Soil for Spiny Cyrtosperma?
Use a heavier soil mix rich in peat and organic matter that is capable of remaining permanently wet.
What Pot Should You Use for Spiny Cyrtosperma?
Glazed ceramic or plastic pots that retain moisture well; it can even be kept in containers without drainage holes to simulate swamp conditions.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 30 days
Misting
Every 1 days
Rotate
Every 14 days
Repot
Every 730 days
What Is Spiny Cyrtosperma and Where Does It Come From?
Cyrtosperma johnstonii is a stunning tropical aroid known for its massive, upward-pointing, arrow-shaped leaves. The leaf venation is bright red or pink when young, which can persist as the plant matures, creating a striking contrast against the dark green surface. The stems (petioles) are covered in small, thorn-like protrusions, which give the plant its common name. It is native to the swampy regions of the Solomon Islands.
How to Propagate Spiny Cyrtosperma?
Tuber division
- Use rooting hormone on the cut surfaces to encourage faster establishment.
- 1 Tuber extraction
Carefully lift the plant from the pot and wash the soil away from the root system.
- 2 Division
Look for healthy offsets or tubers and separate them from the mother plant using a sharp, sterile knife.
- 3 Planting
Plant the separated sections in a nutrient-rich, swampy medium and maintain very high humidity.
Materials needed:
How Big Does Spiny Cyrtosperma Grow?
TLDR: Spiny Cyrtosperma can reach up to 2.5m tall with Medium growth rate.
Max height
2.5m
Spread
1.5m
Growth rate
Medium
Foliage
Evergreen
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Meaning & Symbolism
A symbol of tropical exoticism and protection due to its thorny stems.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dark Fieldcap | Medium | Low light | 2d | ⚠️ |
| Azalea | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ⚠️ |
| Muriel's Bamboo | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ✓ |
| Bougainvillea | Medium | Direct sun | 7d | ⚠️ |
