Anthuriums, celebrated for their striking, often heart-shaped leaves and vibrant, long-lasting flowers, bring a touch of the tropics to any indoor space. While some varieties can be particular, “easy” anthuriums are well-suited for both beginner plant enthusiasts and those seeking low-maintenance beauty. These adaptable plants allow many to enjoy their unique aesthetic without extensive care demands.
Identifying the Easiest Anthurium Varieties
When seeking an easy-to-grow anthurium, two varieties stand out: Anthurium andraeanum, often called the Flamingo Flower, and Anthurium scherzerianum, known as the Pigtail Plant. Both are widely available and recognized for their resilience.
Anthurium andraeanum has large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves and showy, waxy spathes in shades of red, pink, orange, or white. These spathes, often mistaken for flowers, surround a protruding, tail-like spadix. This variety offers long-lasting blooms, remaining vibrant for several weeks. It is forgiving with watering and adapts to varied light conditions.
Anthurium scherzerianum is similar but smaller, growing to about 12 to 18 inches tall. Its distinguishing feature is its orange-red, corkscrew-like or coiled spadix, giving it the “Pigtail Plant” nickname. The leaves are lance-shaped and dark green. This species is considered very forgiving, making it particularly suitable as a houseplant due to its robust nature. It also produces flowers in various colors, including red, orange, or pink.
Core Care Principles for Easy Anthuriums
Anthuriums thrive when their environment mimics their native tropical habitats, requiring consistent, yet not overly demanding, care. Understanding their preferences for light, water, soil, humidity, and nutrients helps ensure their health and encourages blooms.
Light
Anthuriums prefer bright, indirect light for growth and flowering. Placing them near a window that receives filtered sunlight, such as an east or west-facing window, is ideal. Direct sunlight can scorch leaves, while insufficient light can result in stunted growth and a lack of blooms.
Watering
Proper watering involves allowing the top inch or two of the soil to dry out before rewatering. This prevents overwatering and root rot. During the growing season (spring and summer), watering may be needed every one to two weeks; in fall and winter, reduce frequency. Water thoroughly until water drains from the pot’s bottom, but never let the plant sit in standing water.
Soil
Anthuriums require a well-draining, airy, and chunky potting mix rich in organic matter. A mix includes ingredients like pine or fir bark, perlite, and coco coir or peat moss. This substrate provides adequate air circulation around the roots and prevents soil compaction, which is important for these plants, as many are epiphytic in their natural settings. An ideal soil pH is slightly acidic, ranging from 5.5 to 6.5.
Humidity & Temperature
These tropical plants thrive in high humidity, between 60% and 80%. To increase humidity indoors, group plants together, use a pebble tray, or employ a humidifier. Anthuriums prefer warm temperatures, between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C), and should be protected from temperatures below 60°F. Cold drafts or sudden temperature changes can stress the plant.
Fertilizing
Anthuriums benefit from regular fertilization during their active growing season in spring and summer. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to half strength, can be applied every two to four weeks. Some sources suggest a fertilizer with higher phosphorus content to encourage more blooms. During fall and winter, when growth slows, reduce or stop fertilizing.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Even easy-to-grow anthuriums can encounter minor issues, which are often simple to resolve. Recognizing common problems allows for prompt correction and maintaining plant health and vigor.
Yellowing leaves
Yellowing leaves indicate overwatering, often because the soil remains too wet, depriving roots of oxygen. It can also be a sign of too much direct sunlight or nutrient deficiencies. To address this, check soil moisture and allow it to dry more between waterings, move the plant to a spot with filtered light, or adjust your fertilization routine.
Brown tips or edges
Brown tips or edges on anthurium leaves indicate low humidity or underwatering. These tropical plants need consistent moisture in the air. Increasing humidity with a pebble tray or humidifier can alleviate this. Ensuring the plant receives adequate water without oversaturation helps prevent crispy edges.
Lack of blooms
A lack of blooms is related to insufficient light or nutrients. If your anthurium is not flowering, assess its light exposure to ensure it receives bright, indirect light for at least six hours daily. Adjust your fertilizing schedule to provide a balanced or phosphorus-rich fertilizer during the growing season, which encourages flower production.
Enjoying Your Easy Anthurium
Selecting an easy anthurium variety offers a rewarding experience. These plants provide continuous visual interest with their unique blooms and lush foliage, enhancing any living space. Their ability to thrive with straightforward care makes them a suitable addition for many indoor gardeners.
Placing your anthurium where its colors can be appreciated, such as on a bright shelf or as a centerpiece, maximizes its ornamental appeal. Their long-lasting “flowers” provide continuous color, contributing to a fresh, tropical atmosphere in your home. Understanding their basic needs allows you to cultivate these plants and enjoy their presence year-round.