Description
- Common names:
- Painted Anthurium, Flamingo Flower, Tailflower, Painter's Palette, Laceleaf, Anturio, Flor de Flamenco, Lengua del Diablo
- Botanical name:
- Anthurium andraeanum
- Description:
- Exotic houseplant with glossy heart-shaped leaves and stunning purple blooms. Native to South American rainforests, this beauty can flower year-round with proper care and humidity.
Features
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Toxic to All Pets (keep out of reach)
- Rarity:
- Uncommon Find
- Form factor:
- Upright Bush, Flowering, Architectural, Glossy Foliage
- Air Purifier:
- Good Air Purifier (7/10)
- Origin:
- South America
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Living Room, Bedroom, Bathroom, Modern, Bohemian, Tropical Style, Bright Windowsill, Statement Plant on Pedestal
Care Guide
Care level:
Intermediate+
This tropical beauty requires attention to humidity and consistent watering schedules. It's not the most forgiving of neglect, making it better suited for plant parents with some experience who can maintain its rainforest-like conditions.
Light:
Bright / Indirect Light+
Place near an east or north-facing window where it receives bright, filtered light but no direct sun rays. Direct sunlight will scorch the leaves, while too little light will reduce blooming and cause leggy growth.
Water:
Keep Soil Moist+
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, typically every 5-7 days. Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged, as overwatering can lead to root rot which is fatal to Anthuriums.
Humidity:
Prefers High Humidity+
As a rainforest native, this plant thrives in humidity levels above 60-70%. Increase humidity by placing on a pebble tray, grouping with other plants, misting regularly, or using a humidifier to encourage vibrant blooms and prevent brown leaf tips.
Temperature:
Prefers Warmth+
Thrives in warm conditions between 18-29°C (65-85°F) with nighttime temperatures no lower than 16°C (60°F). Protect from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and sudden temperature fluctuations which can cause stress and bloom drop.
Hardiness zones:
Zones 10-12+
Hardy outdoors year-round only in USDA Zones 10-12 where temperatures rarely drop below 10°C (50°F). In cooler zones, grow as a houseplant or move outdoors to a shaded patio during warm summer months.
Fertilizing:
Feed Monthly+
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength once a month during the growing season (spring through early fall). Use a phosphorus-rich formula to encourage more blooms, and reduce feeding in winter when growth naturally slows.
Repotting:
Repot Every 2-3 Years+
Repot every 2-3 years in spring or when roots grow out of drainage holes and the plant becomes top-heavy. Use a well-draining orchid or aroid mix, and only size up one pot size as Anthuriums prefer being slightly root-bound.
Cleaning:
Wipe Leaves Regularly+
Gently wipe the glossy leaves with a damp cloth every 2-3 weeks to remove dust, maintain their natural shine, and help the plant photosynthesize efficiently. This also allows you to inspect for pests like spider mites or aphids.
Propagation:
Division+
Best propagated by division during repotting by gently separating the root clumps with multiple stems into individual plants. Each division should have at least 2-3 leaves and healthy roots, then pot in fresh aroid mix and keep warm and humid.