Anthurium – In Greek ` The Tail flower` is one of the most popular, vibrant and long flowering plants available to keep in the home. An epiphyte, a plant that grows on another host plant without doing any harm, native to the Tropical Rain Forests of South America. Give them indirect light, humidity and they are extremely easy to grow. The highly colourful bract, often confused for the flower, will last for several months, and the plant can bloom continuously for most of the year.
Summer care: Anthurium like a bright, well-lit spot, without any direct sun. Too little light will give poor growth and fewer flowers.
They love warm temperatures, 18-25c is best.
They also love humidity, this is best achieved by placing on a saucer filled with decorative stones that you add water to, stand the plant on the stones, but don`t allow the pot to touch the water. This will increase the moisture in the air around the plant. Misting regularly in the warmest months will also increase humidity.
Keep them away from hot or cold draughts, so do not place them near a radiator.
Water thoroughly, then allow to dry slightly before watering again.
Fertilise once a month with a general purpose flowering houseplant feed as per instructions. This will boost growth and encourage more flowers to form.
As with most Tropical plants Anthuriums require Winter rest with slightly cooler temperatures around 16c. Little growth is made during this time so water sparingly, and make sure that you allow the top of the soil to dry between watering. This will take longer in the cooler temperatures, so don`t be hasty. No need to fertilise until growth starts again next Spring. This rest helps it prepare for next year`s flowers. Avoid hot or cold draughts.
Repot when necessary in Spring, once every 2-3 years is average. Just use a slightly larger pot and good free draining compost.
The plant contains crystals of calcium oxalate, to deter livestock from eating them. Therefore problematic to pets and humans if consumed. Causes irritation and swelling in the mouth. Best practice is to keep out of reach.
