The purple anthurium (scientific name: Anthurium andraeanum), often called the Flamingo Flower or Tailflower, is a popular indoor plant known for its striking beauty and vibrant color. Its distinctive waxy, heart-shaped structures, known as spathes, are frequently mistaken for flowers, though the actual flowers are tiny and appear on a central spike called a spadix. These glossy, tropical plants originate from the rainforests of South America and the Caribbean, where they typically grow as epiphytes on other plants or in tree crevices. This unique origin influences their specific care requirements, allowing them to bring a touch of exotic elegance to any indoor space.
Essential Care Requirements
Anthuriums thrive when their environmental conditions closely mimic their natural tropical habitat. Providing proper care in key areas helps ensure the plant’s sustained health and encourages vibrant, long-lasting blooms.
Light
Purple anthuriums flourish in bright, indirect light. Placing them near an east-facing window, which offers gentle morning light, is often ideal. While sufficient light is needed for consistent blooming, direct sunlight can cause leaf burn. Conversely, inadequate light results in slow growth and a noticeable lack of flowering.
Water
Consistent and careful watering is important for purple anthuriums. The soil should be kept moist but never waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot. Water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry, typically every one to two weeks. Proper drainage is crucial; avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Soil
A well-draining, airy, and fertile potting mix rich in organic matter is fundamental for a healthy purple anthurium. An orchid mix or a blend of peat moss, perlite, and coarse sand or bark works well, providing the necessary drainage and aeration. Good drainage is paramount as anthurium roots need oxygen and are susceptible to rot in dense, water-retaining mediums. The ideal soil pH is slightly acidic, ranging from 5.5 to 6.5.
Temperature and Humidity
Mimicking their tropical origin, purple anthuriums prefer warm, consistent temperatures, ideally 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Temperatures dropping below 60°F can damage the plant, and growth may halt below 50°F. High humidity, at least 50% or more, is also beneficial. Increase humidity using a pebble tray, a humidifier, or occasional misting of the leaves.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season (typically spring and summer), a purple anthurium benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer, or one higher in phosphorus to encourage blooms. Apply once a month, diluted to half or quarter strength, to prevent over-fertilization. Reduce or cease fertilization during fall and winter, when growth slows, to prevent nutrient buildup and potential root burn.
Potting and Repotting
Repotting a purple anthurium contributes to its long-term health and vigor. While not a frequent task, it is important for the plant’s continued development.
Repotting is needed when the plant becomes root-bound, shows stunted growth, or the soil degrades. Generally, repot every two to three years for fresh nutrients and root expansion. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one, with good drainage holes, to prevent excess moisture retention.
When repotting, carefully remove the plant, inspect roots, and trim any damaged or mushy ones. Place it in the new pot with fresh, well-draining soil, ensuring the base is at the same level as before. Water thoroughly to help the new soil settle around the roots.
Pruning and Maintenance
Regular pruning and general maintenance help keep the purple anthurium healthy, encourage new growth, and maintain its attractive appearance. This involves a few simple tasks.
Prune dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves and spent flower spathes. This improves aesthetics and directs energy towards new foliage and blooms. Use sterilized sharp scissors or pruners to make clean cuts at the base of the stem or flower stalk.
General maintenance includes regularly wiping glossy leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust. This allows leaves to absorb light more efficiently for photosynthesis, contributing to overall vitality. Good air circulation also helps prevent issues.
Addressing Common Issues
Even with proper care, purple anthuriums can face pests, diseases, and physiological problems. Prompt identification and treatment prevent serious plant distress.
Pests like spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and thrips can infest anthuriums. Signs include yellowing leaves, sticky residue, or visible tiny insects. Treat by wiping affected leaves with a damp cloth, applying insecticidal soap, or using neem oil. Isolate infested plants to prevent spreading.
Fungal diseases like root rot are linked to overwatering or poorly draining soil. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing leaves, and mushy roots. To treat, remove the plant, trim affected roots with sterilized tools, and repot in fresh, well-draining soil. Bacterial blight, another issue, causes water-soaked lesions and spreads in wet, humid conditions; good air circulation helps prevent it.
Physiological problems appear as leaf discoloration or lack of blooms. Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiencies. Brown tips or edges often point to low humidity or fertilizer burn. Lack of blooming may be due to insufficient light or phosphorus deficiency. Adjusting care based on symptoms helps recovery.