A somewhat acid medium is beneficial for Anthuriums and Alocasias in particular. Anthuriums that seem not to be growing will get a start from some Miracle Gro for acid-loving plants - I use 1 tsp/5 gal and this mix can be used several times a week on them. Caladiums and Typhoniums tend towards a more neutral mix. Philos can take either slightly acid or neutral. Alkaline mixes tend to be bad for Alocasias and Philos - Philos will tend to get deficiencies in alkaline soil. That's some of what I've learned.
