Anthurium (Flamingo Flower): Glossy Blooms for Year-Round Color

Anthurium andraeanum, the flamingo flower, stuns with waxy, heart-shaped spathes (modified leaves) in red, pink, white, or salmon surrounding a protruding spadix of tiny true flowers. Glossy, dark green, cordate leaves on long petioles complete this tropical epiphyte's elegant profile.

Epiphyte Needs: Soil & Air

In nature, they grow in decaying organic matter on trees. Replicate with: loose, chunky, acidic mix—orchid bark, peat, perlite, charcoal. Roots need air.

Watering & Humidity

Water when surface dry. Room-temp, soft water (hard water stains leaves). Mist leaves (not flowers) for humidity. High humidity preferred.

Light & Temperature

Bright, indirect light. No direct sun. Winter: ~18°C (64°F). Consistent warmth promotes bloom.

Fertilizing

Spring–summer: monthly dilute orchid/bloom fertilizer or acid-loving formula. Foliar feeding beneficial.

Repotting & Propagation

Late summer/autumn. Divide clumps, cover stems/roots with sphagnum for humidity. Seeds possible but slow.

Toxicity

Calcium oxalate—irritating to pets/children.

Anthurium's long-lasting "flowers" (spathes persist 8+ weeks) and continuous bloom cycle make it a premier flowering houseplant.