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Anthurium Care

Flowering anthurium with glossy red heart-shaped blooms

Anthurium andraeanum (flamingo flower) and velvet-leaf anthuriums

At a glance

β˜€οΈ Light Bright indirect.
πŸ’§ Water When the top 3–5 cm is dry.
πŸͺ΄ Soil Very chunky and airy: our Chunky Monkey Mix plus bark.
🌑️ Temp 18–29Β°C.
πŸ’¨ Humidity Average for flowering types; high for velvet types.
🐾 Pets Not pet safe Toxic to cats and dogs if chewed.
🌱 Care level Easy (flowering) Advanced (velvet types)
πŸ“ Grows to 30–60 cm.

Anthuriums come in two styles. The flowering kind (flamingo flower) has glossy heart-shaped blooms in red, pink or white that last for weeks and come back again and again. The collectors' kind (like Magnificum, Clarinervium and Polyschistum) is grown for dramatic velvety or uniquely shaped leaves.

On this page
  1. Light + placement
  2. Watering
  3. Soil + repotting
  4. Feeding + upkeep
  5. Common problems
  6. Varieties we carry
  7. FAQ
  8. Care kit

Light + placement

Bright, indirect light: near an east window or set back from a south or west window. Flowering anthuriums need good light to keep blooming; in low light they survive but stop flowering. Avoid direct hot sun.

Victoria tip: Flowering anthuriums can bloom almost all year in Victoria if you give them your brightest window through winter. Velvet types need extra humidity when the heat is on.

Watering

Water when the top 3–5 cm of soil is dry. Their thick roots need air, so soggy soil causes rot quickly. Water less in winter.

Anthurium magnificum with large velvety leaves and white veins
Anthurium magnificum with large velvety leaves and white veins

Soil + repotting

A very chunky, airy mix: our Chunky Monkey Potting Mix with extra bark. Anthuriums like a snug pot. Repot every 2 years in spring.

Let us do it: Bring it in and we'll repot it for $1 per inch of pot ($2–$10), plus soil and a new pot if you need one. How to Repot a Houseplant

Feeding + upkeep

Feed every 2–4 weeks from spring to early fall with a bloom-friendly fertilizer. Cut spent flowers at the base of the stem. Wipe the leaves to keep them glossy.

Common problems

What you see Likely cause What to do
No new flowers Not enough light Move to a brighter spot.
Yellow leaves, wet soil Overwatering Let it dry more; use a chunkier mix.
Brown leaf tips Dry air or salt build-up Raise humidity; flush the soil occasionally.
Velvet leaves tearing as they open Low humidity Raise humidity above 60% for velvet types.
Thrips or mealybugs Pests Treat with Houseplant Spray.

Varieties we carry

Flowering anthuriums are easy; velvet types like Magnificum and Polyschistum are for more experienced growers. Only what's in stock online right now is shown.

Two red-flowering anthuriums in white pots Assorted Anthurium from $14.99 ● In stock Anthurium Polyschistum Anthurium Polyschistum $13.99 ● In stock Anthurium veitchii Anthurium veitchii from $24.99 ● In stock

Shop all Anthurium β†’

Frequently asked questions

How long do anthurium flowers last?

Each bloom lasts 6–8 weeks, and healthy plants rebloom through the year.

Is anthurium safe for pets?

No. It's toxic to cats and dogs if chewed.

Why won't my anthurium flower?

Usually not enough light.

Are velvet anthuriums hard?

They need higher humidity and very airy soil. They're best for experienced growers.

Anthurium care kit

Still stuck? Bring it in.
Bring your plant (or a photo) to 515 Chatham St #103 and we'll take a look. Open 11–5, 7 days a week, with street parking nearby. Get directions β†’

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