Description
- Common names:
- Anthurium Red, Flamingo Flower, Painted Anthurium, Tailflower, Painter's Palette, Laceleaf, Flor de Flamenco, Anturio Rojo
- Botanical name:
- Anthurium andraeanum
- Description:
- Exotic tropical houseplant with glossy heart-shaped leaves and striking red blooms. Thrives in high humidity and can flower continuously year-round with proper care.
Features
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Toxic to All Pets (keep out of reach)
- Rarity:
- Common Household Favorite
- Form factor:
- Upright Bush, Flowering, Architectural, Glossy Leaves
- Air Purifier:
- Good Air Purifier (7/10)
- Origin:
- South American rain forest
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Living Room, Bathroom, Office, Modern, Tropical, Bright Windowsill, Coffee Table Centerpiece, Scandinavian
Care Guide
Care level:
Intermediate+
Anthuriums require consistent attention to humidity, watering, and light conditions to thrive and bloom. They are not as forgiving of neglect as some houseplants, making them better suited for those with some plant care experience.
Light:
Bright / Indirect Light+
Place near an east or north-facing window where it receives bright, filtered light but no direct sun. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while insufficient light will reduce blooming and cause leggy growth.
Water:
Keep Soil Moist+
Water when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry to the touch, keeping the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage and empty any standing water from saucers.
Humidity:
Prefers High Humidity+
As a rainforest native, this plant thrives in humidity levels above 60-80%. Increase humidity by placing on a pebble tray, grouping with other plants, using a humidifier, or misting regularly to prevent brown leaf tips.
Temperature:
Prefers Warmth+
Thrives in warm temperatures between 18-29°C (65-85°F) and should never be exposed to temperatures below 15°C (60°F). Protect from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and sudden temperature fluctuations.
Hardiness zones:
Zones 10-12+
Hardy outdoors only in USDA Zones 10-12 where temperatures remain consistently warm year-round. In cooler zones, grow as a houseplant or move outdoors only during warm summer months when nighttime temperatures stay above 15°C (60°F).
Fertilizing:
Feed Monthly+
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season (spring through summer). Reduce feeding to every 6-8 weeks in fall and winter when growth naturally slows.
Repotting:
Repot Every 2-3 Years+
Repot every 2-3 years or when roots begin growing out of drainage holes and the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix with perlite or orchid bark, and choose a pot only 1-2 inches larger than the current one.
Cleaning:
Wipe Leaves Regularly+
Gently wipe the glossy leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks to remove dust and allow the plant to photosynthesize efficiently. Clean leaves also showcase the plant's natural shine and help prevent pest infestations.
Propagation:
Division+
Propagate by division during repotting by carefully separating offset shoots with roots attached from the mother plant. Plant divisions in fresh, well-draining soil and keep warm and humid until established.