Re: [aroid-l] Cultural tips for Chlorospatha?

Hi Michael,
I am making an assumption that these plants are from Ecuagenera, in Ecuador 
since it is highly unlikely that anyone else is growing, propagating and 
selling these unusual Aroids.  I happen to work for Ecuagenera and can certainly 
tell you how we grow them at the nursery.  Ecuagenera has a low-elevation nursery 
where we grow most Aroids, even if they come from higher elevations; because 
they will tolerate warmer temperatures and grow and propagate faster.  Both of 
these species of Chlorospatha grow in the lower-elevation nursery at 2800 
feet.  The humidity is very good at that location and they grow well and without 
much interruption in terms of dormancy cycles.  The problem I have had with C. 
mirabilis in cultivation ... in New York City (elevation ... 2nd floor, 
Manhattan) is that it sometimes "calls for" a dormancy cycle and I have rotted out 
the tuberous stem by not letting it dry off slightly.  The light requirements 
for both species seems to be moderate to low.  The leaf shape and patterning 
on both are quite spectacular.  If I were forced to give a difference in 
cultural preferences, I might guess that C. "china" (not a species name) likes 
relatively warmer temperatures than C. mirabilis, but culture of these species is 
somewhat new for everyone.  Let us know what works for you!
Good growing - Michael Riley
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