How to grow and care for anthurium plants
Anthurium plants, also known as Flamingo Flowers, are admired for their glossy leaves and striking blooms. While they thrive outdoors in tropical climates, anthuriums can flourish as houseplants in the UK with the right care.
The colourful blooms are made up of a large spathe (actually a type of leaf) with a central spike containing tiny flowers. There are several types of anthurium available. Anthurium andraeanum is the most common, with heart-shaped spathes in vibrant pink, red, or white. Other varieties such as Anthurium clarinervium and Anthurium crystallinum are grown for their dramatic variegated foliage.
NB: Anthuriums are toxic if eaten. Keep out of reach of pets and children, and wear gloves when working with these plants.
Top 5 anthurium plant care tips
- Light: Place your anthurium in a bright spot with indirect sunlight. Direct sun can scorch the leaves.
- Soil: Anthuriums need a very well-drained compost – orchid compost is ideal.
- Humidity: Maintain high humidity levels by misting the leaves regularly or placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water.
- Fertilisation: Feed monthly during spring and summer with a high-potash liquid feed such as tomato feed diluted to half strength, or use a specialist orchid feed.
- Cleaning: Wipe the leaves occasionally to keep them dust-free and shiny.
How to care for indoor anthurium plants
- Fertilising: Feed your anthurium monthly in spring and summer with a liquid orchid fertiliser to encourage strong growth and vibrant blooms.
- Watering: Allow the surface of the compost to dry out between waterings to avoid root rot. In hard water areas, water with rainwater or filtered water.
- Humidity: Position the plant in naturally humid areas like a kitchen or bathroom, or mist its leaves regularly to mimic tropical conditions.
- Maintenance: Remove spent flowers and yellowing or damaged leaves to keep the plant looking healthy and to encourage new growth.
Repotting your anthurium
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Anthuriums need to be grown in pots with good drainage to prevent root rot. Terracotta pots are ideal as they improve air circulation in the compost around the roots. Re-pot your anthurium every 2-3 years, once the roots have filled the current pot.
- Potting: Choose a pot no more than 2.5-5cm larger in diameter than the plant’s current pot. Place a layer of orchid compost at the bottom of the new pot. Gently remove the plant from its old pot and position it centrally in the new pot so that the top of the plant’s root ball is at the same level in the new pot as it was in its previous pot. Backfill with compost.
- Watering: Water thoroughly and remove any excess water from saucers or cover pots to avoid waterlogging. Anthuriums cannot tolerate sitting in water.
Growing anthurium plants outdoors
In the UK, Anthuriums are best grown indoors, but can be moved outdoors in summer in warm areas with high humidity and temperatures reliably above 18°C. While some species tolerate cooler temperatures, they should never be exposed to frost.
Outdoors, it’s best to grow anthuriums in pots rather than in the ground, to ensure good drainage. Choose a pot with plenty of drainage holes and part-fill it with orchid compost, remove the plant from its pot, and position it in the new pot. Backfill with more compost, ensuring the plant sits at the same level as it did in its previous pot.
Position the plant in a sheltered spot with bright, indirect light, away from direct sunlight which can scorch its leaves.
Move pots indoors in autumn to protect your anthurium from frost and low temperatures.
Pests and diseases affecting anthuriums
While anthuriums are relatively trouble-free, they can occasionally encounter pests and diseases. Keeping a close eye on your plant ensures early detection and treatment.
Common anthurium problems
- Aphids: Small, sap-sucking insects that cluster on new growth. These can be gently wiped off with a damp cloth. Treat heavy infestations with insecticide.
- Spider mites: Tiny pests that cause mottling on upper leaf surfaces and fine webbing on the leaves. To reduce the risk of spider mites, increase humidity around the plant by misting the leaves regularly. Treat infestations with insecticide.
- Mealybugs: These appear as white, cotton-like spots on leaves or stems. Remove them using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
- Anthurium leaves turning yellow: This is a sign of root rot, caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To treat, cut off any rotted roots, repot the plant in fresh, well-draining compost and water less frequently.
- Anthurium leaves turning brown: This could be caused by too much sunlight, or the air being too dry. Mist the leaves regularly to raise humidity, and keep the plant out of strong direct sunlight.
With proper care, your anthuriums can live for several years. They make a stunning addition to any indoor or outdoor space, providing long-lasting beauty and a tropical vibe. Whether you’re displaying their glossy leaves or enjoying their vibrant blooms, these plants are sure to become a favourite in your collection.
