As any supermodel, these fabulously fiery ‘flowers’ can turn the atmosphere of a room into a stage within seconds. However, these little flowers that come in shades of red are a type of leaf. At first glance, you might think that anthuriums are somewhat giddy plants but in fact, they are easy-going and don’t need a lot of attention. 

All About Anthuriums

More commonly referred to as flamingo flowers or laceleaf plants they are derived from the anthurium andraeanum and are native to regions of the Caribbean and northern South America. Anthurium is our red lady plant and its red heart-shaped leaves do the trick of grabbing attention in any room. Their natural environment is the tropical forest; their flowers can lie on the forest floor or perch on larger plants, attracting insects with their beautiful bright ‘spathes’. Indoors Anthuriums are a glamorous, hard-wearing houseplant. They also has spiked ‘flower’ stalks from leaves, that may take up to three months of growth. 

Are Anthuriums Low-Maintenance Plants?

Don’t let the glossy appearance of anthuriums fool you. They are quite low-maintenance outdoor plants. They are from areas of the world that are humid and warm, so the ideal conditions for these will be humid and warm.  The only disadvantage that exists about anthuriums is that they are hazardous to pets and humans particularly children when ingested. Their sap may cause skin irritation and your eyes to burn, and while we know that wilted leaves are toxic, they still look so pretty don’t they? Make sure to hide your plants from prying pets or kid’s hands as they can easily harm the plants. 

 What Is The Frequency of Watering the Anthurium?

 

The secret to a good anthurium beauty is to give them a moist environment. Perform a finger dip test and water your plant gently so that the top two inches of soil are slightly wet. Do not overload it as the damp soils will wilt those green leaves. It is recommended to always use a nursery pot with as many drainage holes as possible. Since the plants originate from the tropical regions of America, it is not very difficult to maintain the humidity levels high, you could use a mist sprayer to spray water on the leaves of the plant daily or you could take the plant and place it in the bathroom while taking a bath so that it gets exposed to the steam. Soil should be moist but the moisture shouldn’t get to the point where it dries up completely. Indoor plants require watering at least once a week, or when the top layer of soil looks dry. Outdoor plants may require watering every two to three days. Saturate the plant with water and let it drain out and do not allow the plant to be in contact with water all the time. Anthuriums are very sensitive to root rot.

How Much do Light Anthuriums Need?

Anthuriums grow better under the sun than in the shade but exposure to too much direct sunlight will burn the leaves. Lack of light results in poor growth and few flowers. Your plant needs six hours of bright, indirect sunlight, and that is the perfect place for your plant. 

What kind of Soil  Anthuriums Love?

Anthuriums grow similar to orchids; so potting medium must be rough and allow an adequate supply of air around the roots. The ideal mix is mosses, cocoa coir or half and half orchid, and houseplant potting soil. Other components that can be included are sand and peat moss for a rough, free-draining orchid mix for soil. 

Temperature and Humidity

All species are from tropical regions with humidity and temperatures ranging between 18-29 °C. These plants can be planted outside in the regions of 11 to 12. It will be lethal to them when the temperatures are below 60°F and when the temperatures are below 40°F they will die. During dry weather or winter, place it on a pebble tray so it can retain moisture for the plant. During some months, it might prove necessary to use a humidifier for several hours a day. 

Fertilizer Requirements

A high phosphorus liquid fertilizer should be used from germination to the time of maturity. Mix and dilute to 1/4 and apply the solution once a week. Phosphorus-rich fertilizer helps your anthurium to bloom by providing it with nutrients that are needed in large quantities. Research before fertilizing your houseplants.

Common Pests

Same pests like mealybugs, spider mites, whiteflies, and scale affect houseplants. Aphids cause plants to bear distorted mottled leaves in the long run. Another indication of aphid presence is ants because those insects feed on the sticky substance excreted by aphids. Spider mites, thrips, and mealy bugs also feed on new growths resulting in yellow spotting and mottling of the leaves. Most of the time, insects can be gotten rid of naturally by spraying them with water which helps you to wash them off and drown them. Pestish may not easily be removed that is why one has to consider horticultural soap or oil sprays because they are natural and do not have any ill effect on the plant. You can also use homemade plant sprays. Make sure you protect your plants from insects and pests.

 

Ways of Increasing the Frequency of Blooms

Make sure your anthurium has high humidity and fertilize it with a 1/4 liquid high phosphorus fertilizer once a week. If the plant does not bloom, try the next option, decrease the amount of light the plant receives and check if the plant has outgrown the pot and should be repotted. You should know How To Repot a Plant before taking your plant out of the container. Another thing that you can do is to change the potting mix by selecting a different type of soil to use for planting. 

Deadheading Anthurium Flowers

Anthurium flowers should be left on the stems till they wither and become brown. Then with a sharp and sterilized cutting instrument, cut off the entire flower spike right from the primary stem. 

How to Order Plants From Eureka Farms?

Now licensed for a full-scale nursery featuring an expansive inventory of landscaping trees, fruit trees, palm trees, and the biggest houseplant collection. If you want to pump up your curb appeal or transform your porch into a class act, Eureka Farms will let you know how to do it all, from topiary trees and hedges to everything in between. You can count on us to pack the shipment with the utmost care nationwide, and your plants will reach you as quickly as possible. If you're looking for ideas on improving air quality, lifting moods, and adding a touch of natural beauty to your work-from-home office space, here's the help of these easy-care indoor plants. Happy Planting!