Anthurium (flamingo flower, tailflower)
Anthurium
Tropical evergreen genus prized for glossy foliage and colorful waxy spathes; prefers bright, indirect light, warm temperatures, and high humidity.
Caution: Toxic to Pets
Toxicity: toxic
Contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion or contact can cause oral and skin irritation, drooling, vomiting, and swelling in pets and children.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Place Anthurium in bright, indirect light—near an east or north-facing window or a few metres back from a south/west window. Avoid direct midday sun which scorches leaves; filtered light through a sheer curtain is ideal.
Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm (¾–1¼ in) of potting mix feels dry. Allow excess to drain and avoid letting the plant sit in water. Reduce frequency slightly in cooler months; maintain evenly moist but not waterlogged soil.
Humidity
Prefers high humidity (60%+). Use a humidifier, pebble tray, or group plants together. Regular misting helps but isn’t a substitute for consistently elevated ambient humidity.
Temperature
Keep between 16–30°C (61–86°F). Avoid sudden drops below 16°C and protect from cold drafts and heating vents that dry foliage.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Yellowing lower leaves
Cause: Natural leaf aging, overwatering, or poor drainage leading to root stress.
Solution: Remove old leaves, check roots for rot, repot into well-draining mix if needed and reduce watering frequency.
Brown leaf tips and edges
Cause: Low humidity, salt buildup from fertilizers, or inconsistent watering.
Solution: Increase humidity, flush soil occasionally to remove salts, trim affected areas and water evenly.
Soft, mushy stems or wilting
Cause: Root rot from overwatering or compacted poorly draining soil.
Solution: Inspect roots, trim rotten sections, repot in fresh, airy mix, and cut back watering. Use fungicide if severe.
Few or no flowers
Cause: Insufficient light, lack of phosphorus, or too-cool temperatures.
Solution: Move to brighter indirect light, apply balanced fertilizer with bloom-promoting phosphorus during growing season, and keep temps warm.
Pests (mealybugs, spider mites, scale)
Cause: Dry indoor air, stressed plants, or introduction from new plants.
Solution: Isolate plant, wipe leaves, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and increase humidity and plant vigor.
✂️How to Propagate Anthurium (flamingo flower, tailflower)
Division: remove plant from pot, gently tease apart clumps ensuring each division has roots and at least one growth point; pot in airy, well-draining mix. Stem cuttings: take 10–15 cm stems with a node, place in moist sphagnum or water until roots form, then pot. Air-layering: wound stem, apply moist sphagnum, wrap in plastic until roots appear, then cut and pot. Keep warm and humid until established.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Araceae
Native to: Tropical Central and South America (rainforest regions)
Natural Habitat: Grows in warm, humid tropical understories as terrestrial or epiphytic plants. They receive consistent moisture, filtered light through canopy, and rich, loose organic soils.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
Reduce watering and feed sparingly. Keep plant away from cold drafts and heating vents. Maintain higher humidity and provide bright indirect light to compensate for shorter days.
Spring
Resume regular watering and begin monthly balanced feeding. Repot if rootbound and divide to rejuvenate. Increase humidity as temperatures rise.
Summer
Provide bright, indirect light and consistent moisture. Expect active growth and occasional blooms. Protect from intense midday sun and ensure good airflow.
Fall
Slow feeding as growth tapers. Slightly reduce water frequency and monitor for pests drawn indoors. Keep warm and maintain humidity.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my Anthurium?
Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry — typically every 7–14 days depending on temperature and potting mix.
Why is my Anthurium not flowering?
Usually due to low light, cool temps, or lack of phosphorus. Move to brighter indirect light and feed with a bloom-friendly fertilizer.
Can Anthurium tolerate direct sun?
No — direct midday sun often scorches leaves. Bright, filtered light or morning sun is best.
Is Anthurium toxic to pets?
Yes. Anthuriums contain calcium oxalate crystals that cause irritation and vomiting if ingested by pets or children.
What soil is best for Anthurium?
A well-draining, airy mix with orchid bark, peat or coco coir, and perlite to retain moisture yet allow airflow.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025