Anthurium

Anthurium andraeanum
Also known as 'Flamingo Flower', 'Flamingo Lily'

Anthurium is native to the mountainous tropical areas of Central and South America.
Anthurium's 'flowers' are actually their waxy leaves and are called spathes. They come in a variety of colors including red, white, and pink and their purpose is to protect the spadix, which is the spike sticking up from the spathe, that contains its many, tiny flowers.

The vibrant, exotic-looking spathes make this a popular gift plant. It's heart-shaped spathes are said to symbolize hospitality and therefore is is often given as a host or hostess gift.

It is relatively easy to care for, requiring medium to bright, indirect sunlight for optimal health, but it will tolerate some low light conditions once established. These plants do need well-drained, aerated soil, and should be allowed to partially dry out between waterings. Be careful not to overwater since anthurium are susceptible to root rot.

Anthurium benefit from a dormant or period of rest in the winter months - temps at approx. 60 degrees is optimal (temps below 50 degrees will stunt their growth). Cut back on watering during this time to promote flowering in spring. If new spathes emerge green instead of the color of the previous spathes, then your anthurium was most likely exposed to warmer temps and force-bloomed too early.

Anthurium does better in humid environments (at least 50% humidity or higher). Filling their saucers with pebbles and water can help increase humidity.

Sometimes aerial roots will sprout from stems, these can be trimmed off, it will not hurt the health of the plant. Spent flowers may simply fall off the plant or they can be removed by cutting them at the base of the stem. Repot your plant every 2-3 years, overly-crowded root systems will inhibit plant growth.

Anthurium are said to have air-cleaning properties and have been found to remove amonia, formaldehyde, xylene, and tourine from the air.

Many tropical plants are toxic to both pets and humans if the leaves or other parts of the plant are ingested. Anthurium contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, all parts of the plant are considered toxic to pets and children, please make sure to place your anthurium plant out of their reach.

6" pots - $14.98