Brightening up your space| A Complete Guide to Growing the Anthurium Plant

Anthuriums are also known as flamingo flowers because of their vibrant leaves and colors. These plants, which are native to northern South America, the Caribbean, and Central America, are present in different shades of red, green, and white. These perennials can easily survive as houseplants, as they do not need a lot of specific care. 

Popular among people for their heart-shaped waxy leaves, Anthuriums thrive wonderfully in light, humidity, and warmth. However, when keeping an Anthurium plant, you need to keep in mind that it is toxic to both pets and humans. If you have a special space where the plant can stay undisturbed, then this guide tells you all about Athurium Care. 

Growing and Caring for an Anthurium Plant

Set your anthurium in a pot with good drainage; use a mix that’s half orchid bark and half standard houseplant soil. These plants like bright rooms, but don’t put them in direct sunlight. High humidity helps a lot; the bathroom works well if you have the space.

Water when the top couple of inches of soil feel dry, and don’t let your plant sit in soggy soil. Just be sure it doesn’t dry out completely. About once a week does the trick for indoor plants, but check more often if your place is extra warm or dry.

During the growing months, feed your anthurium every week with a liquid houseplant fertilizer, but dilute it so it’s only a quarter of the normal strength.

If you notice the leaves and flowers flopping over, grab a small stake or a trellis and give your plant something to lean on or climb. Anthuriums grow up other plants in nature, so they appreciate a little support.

• Light

They thrive in bright, indirect sunlight; think about six hours a day. Too much sun will scorch the leaves, but not enough means fewer flowers. Put your anthurium near a south- or west-facing window, but keep it out of harsh rays. A sheer curtain or just being a few feet away from the window works wonders.

• Soil

Anthuriums want their roots to breathe, so go with soil that’s chunky and drains fast: orchid bark, cocoa coir, moss, or a rough mix of those with houseplant potting soil all work. A little sand and peat moss mixed in with orchid soil is also a good bet.

• Water

Don’t let your anthurium’s soil stay wet, but don’t let it dry to dust either. When the top layer feels dry, it’s time to water. Soak until water comes out of the drainage holes, then toss out any extra water in the tray. Outdoors, you’ll probably need to water every two or three days, especially in hot weather.

• Temperature and Humidity

Anthuriums come from the tropics, so they love warmth and humidity. Keep temperatures between 65°F and 85°F if you can. They won’t survive if things get chilly; below 60°F damages them, and 40°F is fatal. If you live somewhere dry or it’s winter, set the pot on a tray of pebbles and water, or just run a humidifier nearby.

• Fertilizer

Use a high-phosphorus liquid fertilizer, diluted to a quarter strength, and feed your anthurium once a week during the growing season. That extra phosphorus helps push out more flowers.