Flamingo Flower
anthurium andraeanum
Also known as: ["Flamingo Lily","Painter's Palette"]
Overview
A tropical flowering plant known for its vibrant spathes and distinctive inflorescence.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","air purifying"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Anthurium |
| Botanical Name: | Anthurium andraeanum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, humid room
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–29°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, airy mix with peat, orchid bark, and perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust for lower light in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light to avoid leaf burn; protect from direct sunlight; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Avoid direct sun; rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use well-draining mix; avoid heavy garden soil; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers stable temperatures year-round.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable conditions; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Dilute fertilizer to avoid burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below node.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a node or leaf junction; remove spent flowers at the base.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth and maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut dead/damaged parts; wear gloves; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes growth and prevents root binding.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; discard excess water.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent standing moisture; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Increase humidity; provide shade; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience oral and gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Anthurium andraeanum, owing to the calcium oxalate crystals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Anthurium andraeanum can cause oral irritation and gastrointestinal upset in dogs due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAnthurium andraeanum contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and inflammation upon ingestion. The plant's sap may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Anthurium andraeanum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Anthurium andraeanum?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7-10 days.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Anthurium turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering, underwatering, or low light conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
