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Anthurium spp.

anthuriums

Araceae Tropical Americas

Container Friendly

SunPart Shade – Full Shade

WaterMedium

HardinessZones 10–12

Overview

Anthurium spp. is a genus of around 1,000 species of evergreen perennials in the family Araceae, native to the tropical Americas from Mexico and the Caribbean to northern Argentina. Most are epiphytes or climbers of humid forests, while some grow on the ground or among rocks. Plants range widely in size, with leaves from a few inches to over 3 feet (1 m) long that may be heart-shaped, strap-like, or deeply lobed, often thick and glossy. The tiny true flowers are packed onto a fleshy spike, the spadix, which is backed by a flat or curved bract called the spathe. In florist species such as A. andraeanum and A. scherzerianum the spathe is waxy and brightly coloured in red, pink, orange, white, or green, and lasts for weeks. Pollinated spadices ripen into fleshy berries. Many species are grown as houseplants and cut flowers for their long-lasting spathes and bold foliage. All parts contain calcium oxalate crystals, which irritate the mouth and skin. Plants need warmth, humidity, and shade from direct sun to grow well.

Native Range

Native to the tropical Americas, from Mexico and the West Indies south through Central America to Colombia, Ecuador, and northern Argentina. The greatest diversity occurs in the wet forests of the northern Andes and Central America.

Suggested Uses

Grown as houseplants, in heated greenhouses and conservatories, and as a major cut flower in the florist trade. Compact species suit terrariums and shaded patios in warm climates. The waxy spathes are used in tropical floral arrangements.

How to Identify

Recognized by a fleshy flowering spike, the spadix, set against a flat or twisted bract called the spathe, which in florist types is waxy and coloured. Leaves are often thick and glossy and may be heart-shaped, strap-like, or deeply cut. Aerial roots are common on climbing and epiphytic species.

Appearance

Size & Dimensions

Height1' - 5'

Width/Spread1' - 3'

Colors

Flower Colors

red

Foliage Colors

Fall Foliage Colors

Bloom Information

Bloom Period

~6 weeks

Spring Summer Fall Winter

Under warm, bright conditions many species flower on and off through the year rather than in one season. Each coloured spathe lasts several weeks. Indoors, flowering continues whenever light and warmth are adequate.

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

red, pink, orange, white, or green spathes

Foliage Description

green, often glossy

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

SunPartial Shade SunFull Shade

Requires 2-6 hours of direct sunlight daily

• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight

• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight

• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight

Soil Requirements

pH Range5.5 - 6.5(Neutral)

357912

Soil Types

loam peat

Drainagemoist

Water & Climate

Water Needs

Medium

Frost Tolerance

tender

Time to Maturity

2 to 3 years to flowering size

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Anthurium spp. species grow in bright, indirect light and warmth above 60F (16C), away from direct midday sun that scorches the leaves. They need a coarse, free-draining, organic mix that holds moisture without staying wet, much like an epiphyte natural footing. Steady humidity supports growth, and the foliage browns at the edges in dry air. Most are not frost-hardy and are grown as houseplants or under glass outside the tropics. Soil pH from 5.5 to 6.5 suits the genus, and overwatering in cool conditions leads to root rot.

Pruning

Pruning is limited to removing yellowed or damaged leaves and spent flower spikes at the base. Cutting away old growth keeps the plant open and lowers the risk of disease. Aerial roots can be trimmed or guided into the pot as needed.