Anthurium
Anthurium andraeanum · Araceae
- Light
- Bright-indirect
- Water
- Moderate
- Humidity
- High
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Pet-safe
- No
- Propagation
- Division, Stem Cuttings
Common problems: Root RotSpider MitesMealybugsScale InsectsFungus Gnats
Quick facts
- Light: Bright indirect · Water: When top inch dries
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Pet-safe: No
Description
A flowering aroid with glossy leaves and colorful waxy spathes, often red, pink, white, or green. The showy “flower” is a spathe around a central spadix.
Care
- Light: Bright indirect. Too little light means few flowers.
- Water: Keep lightly moist, letting the top inch dry.
- Soil & potting: Airy orchid/aroid-style mix; roots need oxygen.
- Humidity & temperature: Likes warmth and higher humidity.
- Feeding: Light feeding spring-summer to support flowering.
- Repotting / propagation: Repot when roots crowd the pot.
Propagation
By division of offsets or stem sections with roots/nodes. Seed is possible but slow and variable. See Propagation Basics.
Toxicity
Toxic to cats and dogs due to insoluble calcium oxalates. Source: ASPCA Anthurium.
Common ailments, afflictions & pests
Click any item for how to identify and treat it.
- Root Rot — common in dense soil.
- Spider Mites — stippling on leaves.
- Mealybugs — white cotton around stems.
- Scale Insects — brown bumps and sticky residue.
- Fungus Gnats — wet mix warning.
- No flowers? Usually not enough light, weak feeding, or stress.
See also: Diagnose a Problem.