Anthuriums are tropical plants known for their colorful spathes, distinctive flower spikes, and striking foliage. The genus Anthurium, part of the arum family (Araceae), includes hundreds of species native to tropical regions of the Americas. Some are grown for showy red, pink, white, or orange spathes, while others are prized for large, velvety, or heavily textured leaves.

Popular houseplants range from the familiar flamingo flower (Anthurium andraeanum) to foliage favorites such as Anthurium clarinervium, A. crystallinum, A. luxurians, and the dramatic Queen Anthurium (A. warocqueanum). Although their exact requirements vary, many Anthuriums grow well indoors when provided with bright, indirect light, warm temperatures, an airy growing medium, and careful watering.

In this guide, you’ll discover popular Anthurium species and varieties and learn how to care for them indoors. You’ll also find practical advice on watering, lighting, humidity, fertilizing, propagation, repotting, pruning, common problems, flowering, and pet safety.

Flower Lovers Want to Know

What are the best conditions for growing Anthuriums indoors?

Most Anthuriums prefer bright, indirect light, warm temperatures, and an airy, well-drained growing medium. Water when the upper portion begins to dry. Moderate to high humidity is beneficial for many species.

Which Anthurium is best for beginners?

Common Anthurium andraeanum hybrids are among the more beginner-friendly choices. They generally adapt well to indoor conditions with bright, indirect light, good drainage, and careful watering.

How can you tell different Anthurium species apart?

Look at characteristics such as leaf shape, texture, venation, growth habit, spathe, and spadix. For example, A. clarinervium has heart-shaped leaves with prominent pale veins, while A. luxurians has thick, heavily textured foliage.

Why are my Anthurium leaves turning brown?

Brown leaves or edges can result from inconsistent watering, low humidity, excess fertilizer, salt buildup, or too much direct sunlight. Persistently wet soil can also contribute to root problems and declining foliage.

How often should you water an Anthurium?

Water when the upper portion of the growing medium begins to dry rather than following a fixed schedule. Water thoroughly and allow excess moisture to drain freely.

Are Anthuriums toxic to cats and dogs?

Yes. Anthuriums contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing the plant can cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing in cats and dogs. Keep Anthuriums out of pets’ reach.

Anthurium Varieties: Popular Types and Complete Indoor Care Guide

From colorful flowering Anthuriums to dramatic foliage species, the genus offers plants for many indoor growing conditions and styles. Here’s a closer look at popular types and the care they need to thrive.

Quick Facts

Quick Fact	Anthurium
Botanical name	Anthurium spp.
Family	Araceae
Plant type	Evergreen tropical perennial
Native range	Tropical and subtropical Americas
Light	Bright, indirect light
Soil	Airy, well-drained growing medium
Water	Moderate; allow the upper layer to partially dry
Humidity	Moderate to high
Propagation	Division, offsets, stem sections/cuttings where appropriate, seed
Primary uses	Indoor foliage and flowering houseplants

Popular Anthurium Species and Varieties

The genus Anthurium includes a diverse group of tropical plants grown for either their colorful inflorescences or distinctive foliage. Some, such as Anthurium andraeanum and Anthurium scherzerianum, are prized for showy spathes, while foliage species such as A. clarinervium, A. crystallinum, and A. warocqueanum are grown primarily for their striking leaves.

Although their exact requirements vary by species, most Anthuriums grown indoors prefer warm conditions, bright filtered light, an airy growing medium, and careful watering that prevents the roots from remaining constantly saturated.

Flamingo Flower – Anthurium andraeanum

Anthurium andraeanum, commonly called flamingo flower or painter’s palette, is one of the best-known flowering Anthuriums. Native to Colombia and Ecuador, it is an epiphytic tropical species and the ancestor of many of the colorful Anthurium hybrids sold as houseplants.

What appears to be its large, heart-shaped “flower” is actually a modified leaf called a spathe. The true flowers are tiny and densely arranged along the central spike, known as the spadix. Cultivated forms are available with red, pink, white, orange, green, and multicolored spathes.

Indoors, provide bright, indirect light and an airy, well-drained growing medium. Water thoroughly when the upper portion of the growing medium begins to dry, then allow excess water to drain freely. Avoid keeping the roots constantly wet.

Bird’s Nest Anthurium – Anthurium hookeri

Anthurium hookeri is an epiphytic species native from St. Lucia through parts of northern South America. It belongs to a group of Anthuriums commonly described as bird’s nest types because their leaves form a spreading rosette.

Unlike Anthuriums grown primarily for colorful spathes, A. hookeri is valued for its large, simple green leaves and bold tropical appearance. Its rosette growth habit makes it particularly distinctive among indoor Anthuriums.

Provide bright, filtered light, warm conditions, and an airy growing medium with excellent drainage. Water thoroughly but allow the growing medium to begin drying between waterings rather than keeping it continuously saturated.

Plants sold commercially as “Anthurium hookeri” are not always correctly identified, so collectors should purchase from reputable growers when accurate species identification is important.

Laceleaf – Anthurium clarinervium

Anthurium clarinervium is a striking foliage species known for its broad, heart-shaped leaves. The dark green, velvety foliage is marked with prominent pale veins, creating the bold pattern that makes this Anthurium popular with houseplant collectors.

It grows best in bright, indirect light and an airy, well-drained growing medium. Water when the upper portion of the growing medium begins to dry, and avoid keeping the roots constantly wet. Moderate to high humidity and warm indoor temperatures help support healthy foliage. During active growth, fertilize lightly according to the product label.

White Flamingo Flower – Anthurium andraeanum hybrid

Anthurium andraeanum is grown for its elegant white spathes, which contrast with its glossy, dark green foliage. The true flowers are tiny and clustered along the central spadix, while the white spathe provides most of the plant’s ornamental appeal.

Provide bright, indirect light and an airy, well-drained growing medium. Water thoroughly when the upper portion of the growing medium begins to dry, allowing excess water to drain freely. Warm temperatures and moderate to high humidity help support healthy foliage and flowering.

Anthurium crystallinum

Anthurium crystallinum is a tropical foliage species prized for its large, heart-shaped, velvety leaves. The dark green foliage is marked with prominent pale or silvery veins, giving the plant its distinctive appearance.

It grows best in warm conditions with bright, indirect light and moderate to high humidity. Use an airy, well-drained growing medium that retains some moisture without remaining waterlogged. Water when the upper portion of the growing medium begins to dry, and provide good air circulation to help maintain healthy foliage.

Pigtail Anthurium – Anthurium scherzerianum

Anthurium scherzerianum, commonly called the pigtail Anthurium, is easily recognized by its distinctive curled or spiraling spadix. The species naturally produces a colorful spathe, while cultivated forms and hybrids are available with spathes in shades of red, pink, white, orange, and other color variations.

Grow pigtail Anthurium in bright, indirect light and an airy, well-drained growing medium. Water when the upper portion of the medium begins to dry, allowing excess water to drain freely. Warm temperatures and moderate to high humidity help support healthy growth and flowering. During active growth, fertilize lightly according to the product label.

Anthurium luxurians

Anthurium luxurians is a distinctive foliage species prized for its thick, deeply textured leaves. New leaves emerge lighter in color and gradually mature to a deep green, developing the heavily quilted surface that makes this species particularly popular among Anthurium collectors.

Provide bright, indirect or filtered light and an airy, well-drained growing medium. Water when the upper portion of the medium begins to dry, but avoid allowing the root zone to remain constantly saturated. Warm temperatures, moderate to high humidity, and good air circulation help support healthy foliage.

Repot when the plant becomes root-bound or the growing medium begins to break down rather than following a fixed yearly schedule. Choose a container only slightly larger than the existing pot and make sure it has adequate drainage.

Queen Anthurium – Anthurium warocqueanum

Anthurium warocqueanum, commonly called the Queen Anthurium, is a striking foliage species prized for its exceptionally long, pendent leaves. The dark green, velvety foliage develops prominent pale veins, giving mature plants a dramatic appearance.

Queen Anthurium grows best in bright, indirect light, warm temperatures, and relatively high humidity. Use an airy, well-drained growing medium that retains some moisture without becoming waterlogged. Water when the upper portion of the medium begins to dry, and provide good air circulation around the foliage and roots.

This species can be more demanding than common flowering Anthuriums because it is sensitive to sudden changes in humidity, watering, and temperature. Under favorable growing conditions, mature leaves can become several feet long, making Queen Anthurium one of the most impressive foliage species in the genus.

Basic Anthurium Care

Anthuriums are easy to care for and can add a pop of color to any room. Here are some basic care tips to help you keep your Anthurium healthy and happy.

Watering Requirements – Water Anthuriums when the upper portion of the growing medium begins to dry. Water thoroughly, allowing excess moisture to drain freely from the container. Avoid allowing the roots to remain constantly saturated, which can contribute to root problems. Watering frequency will vary with light, temperature, humidity, container size, and growing medium.
Lighting Conditions – Most Anthuriums grow best in bright, indirect or filtered light. Intense direct sunlight can scorch the foliage, while insufficient light may reduce growth and flowering. Foliage species can vary in their light requirements, so adjust placement according to the individual plant.
Temperature and Humidity – Anthuriums generally prefer warm conditions and should be protected from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes. Moderate to high humidity is beneficial, particularly for foliage species. If indoor air is very dry, a humidifier can provide more consistent humidity around the plant.
Soil and Fertilization –Anthuriums generally perform best in an airy, well-drained growing medium that allows oxygen to reach the roots while retaining some moisture. A mix containing materials such as fine orchid bark, perlite, coco coir, or other well-draining components can help prevent the root zone from remaining saturated. During active growth, apply a suitable houseplant fertilizer according to the product label. Avoid excessive fertilization, which can lead to salt buildup in the growing medium and damage the roots.

Propagation Techniques

Anthuriums can be propagated in several ways, although the best method depends on the species, growth habit, and maturity of the plant. Division or separation of offsets is often the simplest method for suitable plants, while some Anthuriums can be propagated from stem sections. Growing from seed is possible but generally takes considerably longer.

Division and Offsets

Division is a practical way to propagate mature Anthuriums that have developed multiple stems, crowns, or offsets. Carefully remove the plant from its container and gently loosen the growing medium around the roots. Identify sections that have their own healthy roots and foliage, then separate them carefully with clean tools if necessary.

Place each division in a small container filled with an airy, well-drained growing medium. Water lightly after planting and keep the new plants in warm conditions with bright, indirect light while they establish.

Stem Propagation

Some Anthuriums with suitable stems can be propagated from stem sections containing at least one viable node. Use a clean, sharp cutting tool to remove a healthy section of stem and place it in a suitable moist, airy propagation medium.

Keep the cutting warm and humid but not constantly wet while roots and new growth develop. Rooting time varies considerably depending on the species and growing conditions, so avoid relying on a fixed timetable.

Growing Anthuriums From Seed

Anthuriums can also be propagated from seed, although this method is slower and requires viable seed. Seeds develop inside berries produced after successful pollination and are generally best sown while fresh because viability can decline during storage.

Remove the seed from the surrounding fruit pulp and sow it in a clean, moist, well-drained seed-starting medium. Keep the medium warm and consistently moist but not waterlogged. Germination time varies with the species and environmental conditions.

Once seedlings have developed sufficiently, they can be transferred carefully into individual containers. Seed-grown Anthuriums require patience and may take considerably longer to reach mature size or produce their first inflorescences.

Common Pests and Problems

Anthuriums can develop pest or disease problems, especially when plants are stressed by poor drainage, low humidity, overcrowding, or unsuitable growing conditions. Check the leaves, stems, and growing medium regularly so problems can be addressed early.

Aphids – Aphids may gather on tender new growth and the undersides of leaves, where they feed on plant sap. They can cause curling, distortion, or yellowing. Small infestations can often be removed with a gentle stream of water. For larger infestations, use an insecticidal soap labeled for houseplants and follow the product directions.
Mealybugs and Scale – Mealybugs appear as white, cottony clusters, while scale insects may look like small brown or tan bumps attached to leaves and stems. Both feed on plant sap and can weaken the plant over time. Remove light infestations manually where practical and use an appropriate insecticidal soap or other labeled houseplant treatment if needed.
Spider Mites and Thrips – Spider mites may cause fine stippling, discoloration, or webbing, especially in dry conditions. Thrips can leave silvery streaks, scarring, or distorted new growth. Isolate affected plants and treat with a product labeled for the specific pest and for indoor ornamental plants.
Root Problems – Persistently wet growing media and poor drainage can damage Anthurium roots and encourage root decay. Warning signs may include yellowing leaves, wilting despite moist soil, or dark, soft roots. Improve drainage, remove badly damaged roots if necessary, and avoid keeping the root zone constantly saturated.
Leaf Spots and Blights – Anthuriums can develop fungal or bacterial leaf problems that may appear as brown, black, or water-soaked spots. Because different diseases can produce similar symptoms, avoid diagnosing the cause from appearance alone. Remove badly affected foliage with clean tools, improve air circulation, avoid splashing water between plants, and use an appropriate treatment only when the cause has been identified.

Anthurium Toxicity and Pet Safety

Anthuriums should be kept away from pets and young children who may chew on the plant. According to the ASPCA, Anthurium plants contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation if the plant is chewed or swallowed.

In dogs and cats, possible signs of exposure include oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue, or lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service if you suspect that a pet has chewed or ingested part of an Anthurium.

When growing Anthuriums indoors, place them where curious pets cannot easily reach the leaves or other plant parts.

Potting and Repotting Anthuriums

Anthuriums grow best in containers with good drainage and an airy growing medium that allows oxygen to reach the roots. Choose a pot with drainage holes and avoid moving the plant into a container that is much larger than its current root system, since excess growing medium can stay wet for too long.

Use a loose, well-drained mix that retains some moisture without becoming waterlogged. Materials such as fine orchid bark, perlite, coco coir, and other well-aerated components can work well.

Repot when the plant becomes crowded in its container, roots begin growing from the drainage holes, the growing medium starts to break down, or drainage becomes noticeably slower.

How to Repot an Anthurium

Choose a suitable pot. Select a container with drainage holes that is only modestly larger than the existing pot when additional root space is needed.
Prepare the growing medium. Use a fresh, airy, well-drained mix suitable for Anthuriums.
Remove the plant carefully. Gently slide the Anthurium from its pot while supporting the base of the plant.
Inspect the roots. Loosen compacted growing medium and check for damaged, dark, or soft roots. Trim badly decayed portions with clean tools if necessary.
Position the plant. Place the Anthurium in the new container at approximately the same depth it was growing previously.
Add fresh growing medium. Fill around the roots without packing the mixture too tightly, allowing air spaces to remain around the root system.
Water thoroughly. Water after repotting and allow excess moisture to drain completely.
Allow the plant to adjust. Return it to warm conditions with bright, indirect light and avoid excessive fertilization immediately after repotting.

There is no fixed repotting schedule for every Anthurium. Species, growth rate, container size, and indoor conditions all influence how often repotting is needed.

Pruning and Maintenance

Anthuriums generally require only light pruning to remove old or damaged growth and keep the plant tidy.

Pruning

Remove yellow, dead, damaged, or diseased leaves using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Cut the leaf stem near its base without damaging surrounding growth.

Spent inflorescences can also be removed once they begin to decline. Regularly cleaning away deteriorating foliage helps improve the plant’s appearance and makes it easier to monitor for pests or disease.

Disinfect cutting tools before and after use, especially when pruning plants with suspicious leaf spots or other signs of disease.

Maintenance

Watering – Water when the upper portion of the growing medium begins to dry, then allow excess water to drain freely.
Fertilizing – Feed during active growth with a suitable houseplant fertilizer applied according to the product label. Avoid excessive fertilization.
Cleaning – Wipe dust from large leaves occasionally with a soft, damp cloth so the foliage remains clean and easy to inspect.
Repotting – Repot when the plant outgrows its container or the growing medium begins to break down rather than according to a fixed timetable.

Anthurium Blooming Tips

Flowering Anthuriums such as Anthurium andraeanum and A. scherzerianum may produce inflorescences repeatedly when growing conditions are favorable.

Provide Adequate Light – Bright, indirect light supports healthy growth and flowering. Too little light may reduce flowering, while intense direct sunlight can scorch the foliage.
Water Carefully – Water when the upper portion of the growing medium begins to dry. Avoid allowing the root zone to remain constantly saturated.
Maintain Warm, Stable Conditions – Flowering Anthuriums generally perform best in warm conditions without cold drafts or sudden temperature changes.
Provide Adequate Humidity – Moderate to high humidity can support healthy growth, particularly in dry indoor environments. A humidifier can provide more consistent humidity when needed.
Fertilize During Active Growth – Apply a suitable houseplant fertilizer according to the product label while the plant is actively growing. Avoid overfertilizing, which can damage roots and contribute to salt buildup.
Remove Spent Inflorescences – Trim faded spathes and damaged foliage with clean tools to keep the plant tidy and healthy.

Consistent light, moisture, warmth, and nutrition are more important for flowering than following a rigid watering or fertilizing schedule.

Final Sprouts of Wisdom

Anthuriums offer far more variety than the familiar red-flowered houseplants commonly found in garden centers. Some are grown for their colorful spathes, while species such as Anthurium crystallinum, A. luxurians, and A. warocqueanum are prized primarily for their distinctive foliage.

Care requirements vary among species, but most indoor Anthuriums benefit from bright, indirect light, warm conditions, an airy and well-drained growing medium, and watering that avoids prolonged saturation around the roots. Paying attention to the individual plant rather than following a rigid watering or fertilizing schedule can help prevent many common problems.

Whether you prefer colorful flowering types or dramatic foliage species, choosing an Anthurium suited to your home’s growing conditions is the best starting point for maintaining a healthy plant for years to come.

Anthurium Varieties: Popular Types and Complete Indoor Care Guide

Flower Lovers Want to Know

Anthurium Varieties: Popular Types and Complete Indoor Care Guide

Quick Facts