Anthurium (Anthurium andraeanum)

 

Why Choose Anthurium for Indoors?

Anthurium (also called the Flamingo Flower) is one of the best indoor plants because it’s:

  • Low maintenance but visually stunning

  • Perfect for brightening indoor spaces with bold red, pink, or white blooms

  • Air-purifying, removing harmful chemicals from your home

  • Ideal for indirect light settings like living rooms, offices, or bedrooms

  • Long-blooming, with flowers that last for weeks—even months

What Makes Anthurium So Attractive?

Plant lovers admire Anthurium for its:

  • Glossy, heart-shaped leaves

  • Bright, waxy “flowers” (spathes) surrounding a yellow or white spadix

  • Tropical look that adds vibrant color and exotic elegance

  • Compact shape, great for small indoor areas

Its blooms are not just beautiful—they’re long-lasting and symbolic of hospitality.

 

Special Capabilities

  • Air-Purifier: Removes pollutants like formaldehyde, ammonia, and xylene

  • Humidity Booster: Increases moisture in dry indoor air

  • Decorative Power: Perfect for floral arrangements and home design

Display Tips for Maximum Aesthetic

  • Use sleek white ceramic pots or glass containers to contrast the vibrant spathes

  • Elevate on plant stands or shelves to highlight their upright growth

  • Group multiple colored Anthuriums for a tropical centerpiece

  • Pair with trailing plants like Pothos or Ferns for depth and texture

 

Best Time to Repot:
Spring or early summer (active growing season)
Morning — gives the plant time to adjust before nightfall

 

Recommended Pot Features:

  • Just slightly larger than the root ball (Anthuriums like to be slightly root-bound)

  • Has drainage holes

  • Materials: Terracotta, ceramic, or plastic

Soil Requirements

Anthuriums prefer a loose, well-draining mix. The ideal blend includes:

  • Orchid bark

  • Peat moss or coco coir

  • Perlite

Soil pH: Slightly acidic (5.5–6.5). This promotes healthy root growth and vibrant blooms.

 

Watering Tips

TipDescription
FrequencyWhen top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry
Water TypeRoom temperature, non-chlorinated water
CautionAvoid overwatering—can cause root rot
MethodWater thoroughly, allow excess to drain

 

Light & Temperature

FactorRequirement
LightBright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun
Temperature65°F–80°F (18°C–27°C)
Cold SensitivityKeep above 55°F (13°C) — avoid drafts

 

Pest Control

Common Pests:

  • Aphids

  • Mealybugs

  • Spider mites

  • Scale insects

How to Treat:

  • Wipe with damp cloth or alcohol-dipped cotton swab

  • Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap

  • Rinse gently with water

  • Isolate infected plants immediately

Prevention:

  • Inspect new plants

  • Keep leaves clean and dry

  • Ensure proper air circulation

Common Diseases

DiseaseSignsRemedy
Root RotYellowing, wilting, mushy rootsRepot in dry, well-draining soil
Bacterial BlightWater-soaked spots on leavesRemove affected leaves, increase air flow, use copper spray
Leaf SpotBrown spots with yellow halosPrune, reduce misting, apply fungicide
Powdery MildewWhite powder on leavesImprove airflow, treat with fungicide
AnthracnoseBlack lesions on leaves/spadixPrune and apply fungicide

 

Fertilizing Tips

TipsDescriptions
TypeBalanced (e.g., 20-20-20) or bloom booster (10-30-20)
FrequencyEvery 6–8 weeks in spring/summer
StrengthUse half-strength diluted in water
Organic OptionsCompost tea, fish emulsion, worm castings
ApplicationFertilize moist soil, not dry. Avoid contact with leaves

Do not fertilize in fall or winter.

 

Propagation Methods

  1. Division (Easiest & Fastest)

    • Split plant during repotting

    • Ensure each section has roots and leaves

    • Replant in separate pots with fresh soil

  2. Stem Cuttings

    • Cut a healthy stem with a node

    • Root in water or soil

    • Place in warm, humid spot with indirect light

Tips: Best time to propagate: Spring or early summer.

 

Pruning & Ongoing Maintenance

 

Why Prune?

  • Remove dead or yellowing leaves

  • Encourage more flowers

  • Prevent disease spread

  • Shape the plant

How to Prune:

  • Use sterile scissors or shears

  • Cut dead leaves and flowers at the base

  • Don’t prune more than 25% of the plant at once

Wipe leaves regularly to remove dust and allow proper photosynthesis.

 

Anthurium Indoor Care Summary

NeedRecommendation
LightBright, indirect
WaterWhen top 1–2″ is dry
Humidity60–80% (misting, trays, or humidifier)
FertilizerEvery 6–8 weeks, diluted liquid in growing season
RepottingEvery 1–2 years
Pests/DiseaseCheck monthly and treat early

 

Final Thoughts

Anthurium (Anthurium andraeanum) is more than just a pretty plant — it’s a hardworking, air-purifying, long-lasting companion for your indoor space. With a little attention and the right conditions, it rewards you with lush leaves and stunning blooms all year round.

 

Bring home a piece of the tropics—and watch it thrive.