how to care for anthurium

With their glossy, heart-shaped leaves and striking, waxy flowers, anthuriums bring a long-lasting touch of the tropics to any room. Often called the flamingo flower or laceleaf, these stunning plants are surprisingly low-maintenance once you understand their basic needs. If you’ve ever wondered about the secret to keeping yours happy and blooming, you’re in the right place. Let’s walk through the simple steps for how to care for anthurium and help your plant thrive for years to come.

The Perfect Light for Your Anthurium

Think of the dappled sunlight under a jungle canopy—that’s the light your anthurium loves. Bright, indirect light is absolutely key. A spot near an east-facing window is ideal, or a few feet back from a south or west window. Too much direct sun will scorch its beautiful leaves, turning them yellow and crispy. If your space is a little dim, don’t worry; anthuriums can tolerate lower light, but they might not produce as many of their iconic flowers.

Your Watering Routine Made Simple

Anthuriums prefer a “soak and dry” approach, much like many succulents. The goal is to let the top inch or two of soil dry out completely between waterings. Stick your finger into the potting mix; if it feels dry, it’s time for a drink. Water thoroughly until it runs out of the drainage holes, but never let your plant sit in a saucer of water. Overwatering is the most common mistake and can quickly lead to root rot.

Creating a Cozy, Humid Home

As tropical natives, anthuriums appreciate warmth and humidity. They are perfectly happy with average household temperatures between 65°F and 80°F. To keep the humidity just right, you can mist the leaves occasionally, place a small humidifier nearby, or set the plant on a pebble tray filled with water. This extra moisture helps replicate their natural environment and keeps those leaves looking lush and glossy.

A Simple Guide on How to Care for Anthurium

Beyond light and water, a little occasional upkeep goes a long way. Feed your plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength about once a month during the spring and summer. You can also wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to keep them dust-free and efficient at absorbing light. If you notice the roots are crowded and circling the pot, it’s time to repot into a container just one size larger with a well-draining potting mix.

Caring for an anthurium is all about mimicking its tropical origins. By providing bright, indirect light, watering only when needed, and offering a bit of humidity, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular, resilient plant that adds a vibrant pop of color to your home.