Flamingo Flower
anthurium scherzerianum
Also known as: ["Painter's Palette","Flamingo Lily"]
Overview
A tropical flowering plant native to Central and South America, known for its vibrant spathe and curled spadix.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Anthurium |
| Botanical Name: | Anthurium scherzerianum |
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":"18–27°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity
- 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 1–2 months.
- 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:
Acclimate new plants to light gradually; avoid direct sun to prevent leaf burn; place in east or north-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
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 a mix designed for epiphytes; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers stable temperatures; cooler nights acceptable.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable conditions; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when 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
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction; remove entire yellow leaves at the base.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing leaves to maintain health and appearance; shape plant as needed.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut dead/damaged parts; shape evenly; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
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 fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and ensure adequate water.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
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 scherzerianum, owing to the plant's calcium oxalate content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Anthurium scherzerianum 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 scherzerianum 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 scherzerianum toxic to pets?
A: Mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Anthurium scherzerianum?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7-10 days.
Q: Does Anthurium scherzerianum need bright light?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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