Author: florist Míša, KvětinyExpres.cz · Updated: October 2026
The anthurium (botanically Anthurium, also called the flamingo flower) is a houseplant that looks as if it were made of velvet. Its glossy heart-shaped leaves and striking red “flowers” can stay on the plant for months. Once you know a few rules, it will reward you with long blooming.
In this guide you will find out where to put an anthurium, how to water and feed it, why it sometimes does not bloom or the leaf tips turn brown, and how to repot it. You will also find tips for cut anthurium in a vase and answers to the most common questions.
Anthurium, andreanum: what it is
Anthurium andreanum is the best-known species of anthurium and comes from the tropical forests of South America. The coloured “flower” is actually a spathe (a leaf-like sheath) around a spadix with tiny true flowers. That is why it lasts so long and keeps its colour for weeks. It is most often red, but there are also white, pink and green varieties.
Position: light, temperature and humidity
- Light: Bright indirect light; it tolerates partial shade. Direct sun burns the leaves.
- Temperature: Room temperature of 18–25 °C. Avoid drafts and dry air above a radiator.
- Humidity: Anthurium loves humidity. Misting the leaves or a tray of pebbles and water under the pot helps.
Watering and humidity
A tip from florist Míša
“Anthurium needs higher air humidity to keep its leaves glossy and bloom regularly. In a dry flat, mist it regularly or put the pot on a tray of pebbles and water. Cut off the faded flower stalk at the base, which encourages new ones.”
- Watering: The substrate should stay slightly moist, but never waterlogged. Water when the top layer dries slightly. Pour off the water from the saucer.
- Water: Soft, settled water at room temperature.
- Feeding: From spring to autumn once every 2–4 weeks with a weaker solution of fertiliser for flowering houseplants.
Why does my anthurium not bloom?
Most often because of too little light or dry air. Put it in bright indirect light, increase the humidity and feed it from spring. Cut off faded flower stalks at the base.
Brown tips and yellowing leaves
- Brown tips: They come from dry air or hard water. Cut them off and increase the humidity.
- Yellowing leaves: Most often overwatering. Old lower leaves also turn yellow naturally.
Repotting
Repot in spring, usually once every 2 years, into a pot one size larger. Use a loose, well-draining substrate, for example one for orchids or aroid plants.
Cut anthurium in a vase
Anthurium is also a popular cut flower in exotic bouquets. Cut the stem at an angle, change the water regularly and keep the vase away from cold and drafts. You will find cut anthuriums as Anthurium and in exotic bouquets.
What to watch out for
Anthurium is mildly toxic. If eaten, it can irritate the mouth and stomach of cats, dogs and children. Keep it out of their reach.
Frequently asked questions about anthurium
How often should I water an anthurium?
When the top layer of the substrate dries slightly. The substrate should stay slightly moist.
Why does my anthurium not bloom?
It usually has too little light or the air is too dry.
Why does my anthurium have brown tips?
Most often because of dry air or hard water.
Is anthurium poisonous to cats?
It is mildly toxic and can irritate the mouth and stomach if eaten. Keep it out of reach of cats, dogs and children.
Where should I put an anthurium?
In bright indirect light without direct sun.
How much does an anthurium in a pot cost?
Anthurium Andreanum Karma Red costs 467 CZK, the pot has a diameter of 17 cm and the plant is 50 cm tall.
Looking for more flowering plants? Take a look at our flowering houseplants, undemanding houseplants or exotic bouquets. You can find the anthurium with delivery on the page Anthurium Andreanum Karma Red.
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Míša, KvětinyExpres.cz
