Anthurium
Anthurium andraeanum
The Anthurium, also known as the Flamingo Flower or Laceleaf, is a striking tropical plant known for its glossy, heart-shaped leaves and bright, waxy spathes that look like flowers. These long-lasting blooms are actually modified leaves that surround a spike-like spadix, making it a favorite for adding an exotic, polished touch to indoor spaces. Give it bright, indirect light, higher humidity, and a planter that lets excess water drain freely.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Moderate
Humidity
High
Pet Warning
Anthuriums contain calcium oxalate crystals. If ingested, they can cause severe irritation of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract in both humans and pets. Signs of toxicity include drooling and difficulty swallowing.
Full care guide
Anthurium crystallinum Care
Keep Crystal Anthurium's velvet leaves and silver veins healthy with soft filtered light, high humidity, chunky aroid mix, and careful watering by pot weight.
Read the guideCare Notes
Full guide →Light
Anthuriums thrive in bright, indirect light. Placing them near a window with filtered light is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the waxy leaves, while too little light will prevent the plant from producing its signature colorful spathes.
Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Use a planter with drainage holes to prevent root rot, which is the plant’s most common ailment.
Humidity and Temperature
As a tropical native, this plant loves high humidity (60% or higher). Use a humidifier or a pebble tray to maintain moisture levels. Keep temperatures stable between 65°F and 85°F (18°C-29°C), and protect it from cold drafts or heating vents.
Maintenance
Repot every 2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a chunky, well-aerated mix similar to an orchid blend. Periodically wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and keep the foliage shiny.
Common Issues
- Yellow leaves:
Usually a sign of overwatering.
- Brown leaf tips:
Indicates humidity is too low.
- No blooms:
Likely needs more indirect light or a phosphorus boost.
Soil and Planter
Use a well-draining, coarse mix containing peat moss, orchid bark, and perlite. Choose a planter with drainage holes so excess water can escape.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Phosphorus-rich liquid fertilizer
Soil
Well-draining, coarse mix containing peat moss, orchid bark, and perlite
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
12-18 inches tall
Growth Rate
Slow
Propagation
Stem cuttings, division of root clumps
Common Varieties
Flamingo Lily
Glossy, dark green heart-shaped leaves and a bright, waxy spathe that elegantly surrounds a prominent, tail-like flower spike.
Anthurium crystallinum
Large, velvety, heart-shaped leaves that show a deep emerald-green color clearly contrasted by a shimmering network of prominent, silvery-white veins.
Anthurium clarinervium
Velvety, heart-shaped, deep green leaves that feature a striking and intricate pattern of bright, contrasting white veins.
Anthurium superbum
Prehistoric-looking, with stiff, leathery elliptical leaves that show deep textural ribbing and striking burgundy-purple undersides.
Anthurium Magnificum
A large-growing species in the Araceae family, native to the tropical rainforests of Colombia. It is popular with collectors for its enormous, velvety, heart-shaped leaves that can grow to over two feet in length.