Flamingo Flower
Anthurium scherzerianum
Flamingo Flower, also called Pigtail Plant, has matte lance-shaped leaves and a waxy orange-red spathe with a coiled spadix. Native to Costa Rican rainforests, it is a bit hardier than Anthurium andreanum for many indoor growers. Bright indirect light and high humidity support longer bloom cycles.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Moderate
Humidity
High
Pet Warning
Contains calcium oxalate crystals which cause intense mouth irritation, swelling, and drooling in pets and humans if chewed or swallowed.
Care Notes
Light
Bright, indirect light encourages flowering. Direct sun can scorch leaves; too little light and blooms stop.
Water
Water when the top inch of the mix feels dry. Lukewarm filtered water is helpful if your tap water is hard. Empty the saucer so roots do not sit wet.
Soil
Use a chunky orchid-style mix of bark, perlite, and peat or coir. A planter with drainage holes is essential.
Humidity & Temperature
Aim for 60% humidity or higher with a humidifier or pebble tray. Keep temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C-27°C) and away from cold drafts.
Common Issues
Yellow leaves often mean overwatering. Brown tips can come from dry air or salt buildup. Few flowers usually call for brighter indirect light and a phosphorus-leaning fertilizer during the growing season.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Phosphorus-rich or balanced liquid fertilizer
Soil
Well-draining, chunky orchid-style potting mix
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
12-18 inches tall
Growth Rate
Slow
Propagation
Division of root clumps during repotting or by seed
Common Varieties
Rothschildianum (spotted)
Elongated dark green lance-shaped leaves and a cream or white spathe densely speckled in red or orange.
Album (white)
Elongated leathery dark green leaves behind a waxy white spathe and spiraled spadix.
Red and Pink Hybrids
These hybrids have elongated lance-shaped leaves in solid deep green with a matte, leathery texture.