Anthurium andraeanum, commonly called the Red Anthurium, Flamingo Flower, or Painter’s Palette, is one of the most iconic flowering houseplants in the world. Native to the tropical rainforests of Colombia and Ecuador, this evergreen perennial belongs to the Araceae family and is cherished for its long-lasting, vibrant flowers and glossy green foliage.

The plant produces heart-shaped, dark green leaves held upright on slender petioles. Its flowers, which are in fact brightly coloured spathes surrounding a central yellow to cream spadix, are what make this species so popular. The classic red spathe is waxy, glossy, and extremely long-lasting – often remaining vibrant for several weeks, sometimes months. With proper care, Anthurium andraeanum blooms multiple times a year, providing colour almost year-round.

Mature plants typically reach 40–60 cm tall indoors, making them a perfect tabletop or floor display in bright interiors.

Anthurium andraeanum (Red Anthurium) – Care Guide

Light

Thrives in bright, indirect light. Too little light reduces flowering, while direct sun can scorch the foliage and spathes.

Watering

Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry. Keep the soil evenly moist but never waterlogged. Anthuriums dislike standing water and are prone to root rot if overwatered. In winter, reduce watering slightly.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Prefers warmth, ideally 18–26°C. Avoid draughts and keep above 15°C.

• Humidity: High humidity (60–80%) is best for glossy leaves and frequent blooms. Mist regularly, use pebble trays, or keep near a humidifier.

Soil and Potting

Use a light, chunky, free-draining aroid mix – peat-free compost combined with orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir. Repot every 1–2 years in spring to refresh the medium and support flowering.

Feeding

Feed every 4–6 weeks in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser, ideally one high in phosphorus to encourage flowering. Stop feeding in winter.

Pruning and Maintenance

Remove faded spathes and yellowing leaves at the base to promote new growth. Wipe the glossy foliage regularly to keep it free from dust and looking vibrant.

Growth and Maturity

A moderate grower, reaching 40–60 cm indoors. With proper light, humidity, and feeding, it will bloom several times a year, each bloom lasting weeks.

Common Issues

• Lack of flowers: Insufficient light or nutrients.

• Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.

• Brown tips: Low humidity.

• Pests: May attract aphids, mealybugs, or thrips.

Background and Benefits

The Red Anthurium is one of the most widely cultivated ornamental houseplants, symbolising hospitality, love, and happiness. Its long-lasting flowers are often used in cut-flower arrangements and as gifts. Beyond its beauty, Anthuriums are also mild air-purifiers, filtering toxins from the indoor environment.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect; avoid harsh sun

• Water: Evenly moist; reduce in winter

• Temperature: 18–26°C; protect from draughts

• Humidity: High (60–80% recommended)

• Soil: Chunky, free-draining aroid mix

• Feed: Every 4–6 weeks in spring/summer

• Growth: 40–60 cm tall; glossy green leaves and vibrant red waxy spathes around a yellow spadix