Flamingo Flower (Anthurium scherzerianum): Long-Lasting Red Spathes for Indoors

Botanical Name: Anthurium scherzerianum

Flamingo Flower is well-known for its red, oval spathes, each with a twisted orange spadix densely covered with tiny true flowers. Spathes last up to 8 weeks.

Large, pointed, dark-green leaves up to 7 in (18 cm) long surround upright flower stems. Anthurium leaves are poisonous—they contain calcium oxalate crystals causing severe mouth burning. Keep away from pets who might chew foliage. Wear gloves when handling to avoid skin irritation.

You'll find anthurium growing in warm, tropical regions. This Central America native prefers bright light, moist soil, and moist air. Newer cultivars are less fussy about humidity; many hybrids are more lush, compact, and bloom nearly year-round with a winter break.

Repot Young Plants in Spring when roots fill the container. Set plant high so crown sits above soil line. If roots appear at surface between repottings, cover with potting mix. Move to a pot only 1 size larger. Use a pot with a drainage hole—good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.

Flamingo Flower grows best with even temperatures around 70°F (21°C). Below 60°F (10°C) causes yellow leaves. It dislikes drafts too.

Keep Leaves Clean Anthurium leaves are naturally glossy. Wipe with a damp cloth or spray with fine mist of room-temperature water to keep dust-free. Avoid leaving water drops on leaves—may cause fungus appearing as dry brown spots needing fungicide treatment.

This is a beautiful, lush tropical plant even out of bloom. Give it native-like conditions and you'll enjoy it for years.

Flamingo Flower Care Quick Reference

Origin: Costa Rica

Height: 12–18 in (30–45 cm). Flower stalks may need staking.

Light: Bright light, no direct sun

Water: Keep soil evenly moist year-round. Yellow leaves may signal overwatering.

Humidity: Moderate to high. Use humidity tray or room humidifier if below 50%.

Temperature: Average to warm, 65–75°F (18–24°C)

Soil: Peat moss-based potting mix. African violet potting mix works well.

Fertilizer: Feed every 2 weeks spring and summer with high-phosphorus liquid fertilizer diluted by half.

Propagation: Divide crowded clumps when repotting. Spring is best for new plants. High humidity gives them a good start.