Anthurium — Anthurium andraeanum
Anthurium andraeanum is the heart-shaped flowering aroid often sold in bloom in supermarkets — the bright red, pink, or white "flower" is actually a modified leaf called a spathe. With moderate care it re-blooms continuously through the growing season; with poor care it survives but stops flowering for months.
Overview
Native to humid tropical forests of Colombia and Ecuador. Bred extensively for the cut-flower trade — the spathes can last 6-8 weeks in good conditions. Modern hybrids are more tolerant of average household conditions than wild species. Constant warmth and high humidity bring out the most blooms.
Family: Araceae (aroid family)
Care details
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Light | Bright indirect light to maximise blooming. Direct sun damages the leaves and spathes. East or south window 50 cm-1m back. In low light Anthurium survives but produces no new spathes — leaves only. |
| Water | Water when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry — typically every 5-7 days in summer, every 10-12 days in winter. Anthurium prefers consistent moisture but rots if soggy. Use chunky, well-draining aroid mix (orchid bark + perlite + standard potting soil). |
| Humidity | 60-80% for best blooming. Tolerates 40-50% but flowers are smaller and less frequent. A humidifier or pebble tray significantly extends spathe lifespan. |
| Temperature | 18-27°C. Below 15°C plant stops blooming entirely; below 10°C it suffers cold damage. |
| Pet safety | Toxic to cats and dogs (per AVMA). Calcium oxalate crystals cause oral irritation, drooling, and difficulty swallowing if chewed. Keep out of reach of curious pets. |
| Propagation | Division at repotting (every 2-3 years). Mature plants produce side shoots with their own roots that can be separated. Seed propagation is possible but extremely slow. |
Common problems
Yellow leaves
Over-watering or chlorinated tap water. Switch to filtered water; check root health.
No new spathes for months
Insufficient light or low temperature. Move to brighter spot; ensure temperature consistently above 20°C.
Brown leaf tips
Low humidity or salt buildup from fertiliser. Increase humidity; flush soil with plain water every 2-3 months.
Spathes turning green
Normal aging — older spathes lose colour after 4-6 weeks. Prune at the base and new ones emerge.