Anthurium Plant

Plant Name -  Anthurium

Anthurium is a genus of about 1,000 perennial plants native to Central America, northern South America, and the Caribbean. They can be grown outdoors in tropical climates, but due to their specific care requirements, they are often kept as houseplants or in greenhouses. Growth rate is slow to moderate and dependent on adequate light but susceptible to sunlight.

Also known as flamingo flowers for their unique, bright red, green and white colors, they can bloom repeatedly for a long time. Blooming cultivars are distinguished by heart-shaped waxy sepals (ie, modified leaves surrounding the flowers) and red or yellow pods. Most anthuriums are climbers, and all require high humidity and warmth. Anthuriums are poisonous to humans and pets.

Lighting

Anthurium prefers sun to shade, but too much direct light can burn the leaves. Insufficient light will result in poor growth and few flowers. The ideal location for your plant provides six hours of bright, indirect sunlight per day.

The soil

Anthuriums grow similarly to orchids, so the potting material should be rough and well-drained to provide adequate air circulation around the roots. A 50-50 combination of moss, coco coir, or orchid and houseplant potting medium makes a good mix. Sand and peat moss can be added to the orchid mix for coarse, well-draining soil.

Water

Keep the soil slightly moist and do not let it dry out completely. Water houseplants once a week or when the topsoil feels dry to the touch. Plants growing outdoors may need water every two to three days. Water your plant until it flows through the pot's drainage holes, but don't let it sit in water. Anthurium is susceptible to root rot.

Temperature and humidity

All species are native to the tropics, preferring high humidity and temperatures between 65°F and 85°F. These plants can be grown outdoors in zones 11 to 12. They are damaged at temperatures below 60°F and die at temperatures below 40°F.

In dry climates or during the dry winter months, set it in a tray of pebbles to keep the humidity level high. During the drier months you may find it necessary to run a humidifier constantly.

Fertilizer

Feed a liquid fertilizer high in phosphorus throughout the growing season. Dilute to 1/4 strength and feed every week. A phosphorus-rich fertilizer will encourage your anthurium to bloom.

Give your anthuriums plenty of humidity and feed weekly with a liquid 1/4 diluted phosphorous fertilizer. If the plant continues to refuse to bloom, try adjusting the amount of light, check that it has taken root, and replant. You can also try changing the potting mix.