Exploring the World of Anthurium Papillilaminum: A Velvet Leaf Icon
Hey, plant lovers! If you’re obsessed with rare, velvety foliage that screams tropical elegance, then Anthurium papillilaminum is probably already on your radar. This stunning species, hailing from the rainforests of Panama, has captured the hearts of collectors worldwide with its dark, plush leaves and endless variety. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into this iconic anthurium, exploring its origins, traits, and some of its most coveted varieties—like Fort Sherman, Ralph Lynam, Shrek, Gator Skin, Dadbod, A+, Long, and Long Bullate. Grab your coffee, and let’s get into it!
What Is Anthurium Papillilaminum?
Anthurium papillilaminum is a rare epiphytic species native to Panama’s humid jungles, often found clinging to trees in the wild. Unlike the more familiar flamingo flower anthuriums with their glossy leaves and bright spathes, papillilaminum is all about that velvety texture and deep, moody green hues. Its heart-shaped leaves, quilted appearance, and subtle veining make it a standout in any collection.
This species thrives in the shaded understories of places like Lago Gatún and the Panama Canal region, where it’s adapted to high humidity and dappled light. Over the years, growers have identified and cultivated distinct clones and hybrids, each with its own personality—some pure ecotypes, others the result of careful breeding. Let’s meet some of these stars!
Notable Varieties of Anthurium Papillilaminum
The beauty of papillilaminum lies in its diversity. Here’s a rundown of some well-known varieties that have plant enthusiasts buzzing:
Fort Sherman
Named after a former U.S. military base near the Panama Canal, the Fort Sherman clone is a legend in the papillilaminum world. It’s prized for its sleek, elongated leaves that can turn near jet-black under the right conditions. The undersides often flash a pinkish-violet hue, adding a pop of contrast. This variety is a favorite for its bold, sophisticated look.
PIC:@CURIOUS PLANTS
Ralph Lynam
Another Canal-adjacent gem, Ralph Lynam—named after the horticulturist who brought it to the U.S.—is a standout with its inky, velvety foliage. Its leaves are slightly broader than Fort Sherman’s, with a quilted texture that’s pure eye candy. Crosses with Fort Sherman (like RL x FS) are super popular for blending the best of both worlds.
PIC: JAY VANNINI
BETA
Pic: Jimmy hopkins
REE GARDENS
Pic: justin Jones
NSE PAP
A speculation it could b ree gardens pap but no-one could confirm 
pic: Philip Fontana
MARIE
A ree gardens pap but selected by owner Marie herself hence named after her
Pic: Robin Denis
DANIEL
Pic : Robin Denis
INCURVED LOBES
Pic : Gabriel guera
FR
Probably a seedling grown of incurved lobes grown by someone in france
SHREK
Say hello to “Shrek,” a quirky clone tied to Lago Gatún origins and first popularized by grower Paul Marcellini. This variety leans into a softer, rounded leaf shape with a deep olive-green color that’s less jet-black and more mysterious. Some plants show reddish petioles or violet undertones, giving it a playful yet elegant vibe.
Pic: Paul Marcellini
Gator Skin
Gator Skin lives up to its name with a rugged, bullate (puckered) texture that mimics reptilian hide. Its leaves are thicker and more textured than most papillilaminum clones, with a dark green finish that’s both tough and luxurious. This one’s a must-have for texture lovers.
Pic: Paul Marcellini
DADBOD
Dadbod brings a bit of humor to the mix! This variety is chunkier and less sleek, with wider, slightly less defined leaves that still pack that velvety punch. It’s got a relaxed, approachable charm—perfect for collectors who love a plant with personality.
Pic: Paul Marcellini
SWAMPY BUNNY
Pic: Paul Marcellini
PAUL MARCELLINI
Pic: Paul Marcellini
ALPHA
Pic and plant by Dwane burgees aka nodeboi
PAP LG F1
Seed grown ra#5 by dwane burgees 
Pic and plant of dwane burgees
MYSTIQUE
An LG Pap name given by dwane burgees
Pic and plant of dwane burgees aka nodeboi
A+
The A+ pap is from scott
Pic: Scott
Long
As the name suggests, Long is known for its stretched-out, dagger-like leaves that can reach impressive lengths—sometimes up to 24 inches in mature plants! It’s a dramatic variety with that classic papillilaminum velvet finish, perfect for making a statement.
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Long Bullate
A twist on the Long variety, Long Bullate combines those elongated leaves with a puckered, bullate texture. The result? A plant that’s both statuesque and tactile, blending the best of form and feel. It’s a rare find that’s worth the hunt.
Pic and plant of kagan kim aka adventitious_rootss
LONG X LONG BULLET
Pic and plant of Jeffery anthony
SWAMPY DONKEY
This is plant by Paul Marcellini grown and named by Michael beers
VANDERBILT
It’s a wild pap that came to Vanderbilt college in Tennessee. When the greenhouse closed during COVID, the plant went out to a couple greenhouses and collectors.
Pic: Juan Ahumada jr
HAWAIIAN /ALOHA
From lyon arboretum at university of hawaii in manoa.
Mother plant was given to them by Richard Cirino who collected the original from the Cerro Campana region of Panama. It was accessioned in 1984, but there were no notes on whether anyone else received this plant sample.
Pic : Alex pizzete
DUMBO
Pic and plant of Alex pizzete
GREEN GENIE
Pic and plant of Andre Fuentes aka fountains dom. The plant was named by him.
LUXE
Again named by Andre fuentes
VOLDEMORT
Bought from Scott as a pap, no info aside from that. The plant now resides with Bryan Wu at WuHoo Tropicals. This is the only plant in circulation…
PACIFIC COAST
Pic and plant of max wilner
SKG “NARROW” PAP
As the name suggests the plant belongs to silver crome gardens.
Pic : Connor burgal
Caring for Your Papillilaminum
No matter the variety, Anthurium papillilaminum has some core care needs:
- Light: Bright, indirect light (100-300 footcandles). Avoid direct sun to protect those velvet leaves.
- Water: Keep soil moist but not soggy—water when the top inch dries out. Use distilled water for best results.
- Humidity: Aim for 60%+ humidity. A humidifier or pebble tray is your friend.
- Soil: A chunky, well-draining mix of orchid bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss mimics its epiphytic roots.
- Temperature: 65-75°F (18-24°C)—keep it cozy and draft-free.
[Insert Picture Here: A papillilaminum in a pot with a care setup—humidifier, grow light, and all]
Why We Love It
Anthurium papillilaminum isn’t just a plant—it’s a passion. Its velvety leaves, endless variety, and tropical roots make it a collector’s dream. Whether you’re drawn to the sleek Fort Sherman, the quirky Shrek, or the textured Gator Skin, there’s a papillilaminum for every taste. Plus, the thrill of tracking down rare clones? That’s half the fun!
Final Thoughts
Anthurium papillilaminum is a testament to nature’s artistry and growers’ dedication. From the Panama wilds to our homes, its varieties like Fort Sherman, Ralph Lynam, and beyond keep us hooked. Which one’s your favorite? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear your papillilaminum stories or see your pics!
Happy planting, folks!
This blog gives a broad overview of Anthurium papillilaminum and spotlights the varieties i have studied about, leaving room for you to expand with more. Dm me if u have any more info on anymore varities named after their growers.
I will make another series of RA paps . But that’s all for now . If u think this info was valuable pls circulate also u can donate a small amount for my effort and time put into it . My paypal is peacefulhouseplants@gmail.com u can also email me regarding any extra information u have on the paps.
Thanks folkes see u next time.