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Plant Profiles / Anthurium
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Anthurium
Anthurium andraeanum · Flamingo flower, laceleaf
A glossy tropical houseplant with waxy, heart-shaped "flowers" in red, pink or white that last for weeks and appear year-round.
Bright indirectLight
WeeklyWater
ModerateCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Bright indirect
ShadeFull sun
Bright, indirect light for flowering; no direct sun.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Water when the top 2–3 cm is dry.
Humidity
High
LowHigh
Loves humidity.
Temperature
18–29°C (65–85°F)
CoolWarm
Keep above 15°C (59°F).
Growth
Moderate, upright
SlowFast
Grows 30–50 cm.
Soil
Chunky, airy
LeanRich
Orchid bark, perlite and potting mix.
Fertiliser
Monthly
RarelyOften
A high-phosphorus flowering fertiliser at quarter strength.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Contains calcium oxalate crystals.
About this plant
Anthuriums come from the rainforests of Colombia and Ecuador. The colourful part is actually a spathe; the true flowers are on the central spike. With bright indirect light and humidity they can bloom almost continuously.
Best spots
Bright living rooms, bathrooms, kitchens and offices out of direct sun.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Anthurium andraeanum |
| Family | Araceae |
| Origin | Colombia & Ecuador |
| Plant type | Evergreen perennial |
| Mature size | 30–50 cm |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Foliage | Glossy, heart-shaped leaves |
| Flowers | Waxy spathes in red, pink or white |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Division |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Flowering
Fertilise
Repot
FloweringFertiliseRepot
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| No flowers | Not enough light. |
| Yellow leaves | Overwatering. |
| Brown tips | Low humidity. |
| Green spathes | Natural ageing or low light. |
| Scorched leaves | Direct sun. |
Common questions
How long do the flowers last?
Each spathe lasts 6–8 weeks.
Is it toxic?
Yes, keep away from pets.
Should I cut old flowers?
Yes, at the base of the stem.
How do I get more flowers?
More bright, indirect light and a flowering fertiliser.
