Anthurium, also known as the flamingo flower, flamingo lily, boy flower, oilcloth flower or laceleaf, is an exotic-looking indoor plant with a red flower, and large, glossy leaves. Its name is derived from two Greek words, anthos (flower) and oura (tail), hence another of its common names, tail flower.
Anthurium flowers are actually ‘spathes’ – brightly coloured leaves that attract insects in the wild. The flower is actually the central ‘spadix’, made up of lots of tiny blooms. The blooms appear intermittently throughout the year and last for between six to eight weeks, with a ‘rest period’ of up to three months in between.
There are over 1,000 varieties of anthurium available, but the most commonly found type is Anthurium andreanum, which has heart-shaped leaves and shiny flowers in a range of colours. These are most commonly red, pink or white, although you may also find shades of green, yellow, burgundy, lilac and even bi-coloured and spotted flowers. Anthurium scherzianum is similar, but has a curly centre and less glossy flowers, and is sometimes known as the pigtail plant. Some varieties, such as Anthurium clarinervium and Anthurium ellipticum ‘Jungle King’ are grown for their eye-catching and distinctive foliage.
LIGHT
The Red Anthurium likes a well-lit spot with indirect light. Too much light will burn the leaves appearing in white bleached-looking spots.
WATER
Water your Red Anthurium when the soil volume is 50% dry. Water thoroughly until you see water flow out of the drainage hole. Discard any excess water in the tray after a few minutes.
HUMIDITY
Anthuriums prefer high humidity. Mist often, add a pebble tray or place a humidifier nearby. Dry crispy leaves are often a sign your plant needs more humidity.
TEMPERATURE
Your Anthurium prefers average to warm temperatures between 65-80°F. Avoid temperatures below 60°F. Keep your plant away from drafty areas and open vents.
FOOD
Feed every month in the spring and summer with a fertilizer high in nitrogen or one formulated for Anthurium plants. Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength, and be sure to only apply fertilizer to damp soil.
TOXICITY
Anthuriums are toxic to pets and humans if ingested.
ADDITIONAL CARE
Prune spent flowers as they appear. If you notice your Anthurium hasn’t bloomed during the growing season, it may need more light. Give your Anthurium a six-week rest during the winter. Lower temperatures, less light, and drier soil during this time will help your plant produce more flowers in the spring and summer.
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