Generally speaking, the name Anthurium is an umbrella for hundreds of tropical plant species that have the most beautiful and vibrantly coloured flowers that can last nearly year-round. This is one of the main reasons why you can see Anthuriums in many homes.
This gorgeous plant is native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, and despite its sensitivity to temperature and humidity, Anthurium plants are relatively hardy and easy to take care of when kept as indoor plants. Usually, they are sold as adult plants or cuttings, however, it is possible to grow them from seeds as well. Regarding the colour, there are white, purple, red, and even pink anthurium flowers, which means anyone can find one in the colour of their liking.
When it comes to the caring part, Anthurium plants prefer a coarse and well-draining soil like a mixture of perlite, peat moss, and pine bark (equal parts). Keep in mind that these plants can grow outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 11 and 12, corresponding to minimum annual temperatures of 4.4 Celsius degrees or higher. In any other climate, use a flowerpot and keep them indoors.
Once the soil is done, you can plant it in a pot 1/3 full of this soil mix. Keep in mind that this plant needs to be kept in a pot that is slightly larger than itself, otherwise, its roots may rot and die.
Another tip for the caring part is to keep those white, red, or pink Anthurium flowers of yours in a warm or hot location, with indirect sunlight as the sun can burn the plant. Generally, they thrive in daytime temperatures between 27 – 32 Celsius degrees, and if this is not possible, keep it at a temperature above 15 Celsius degrees. You should avoid keeping them directly in front of heaters and heating vents as this can also burn them.
If you live in a dryer climate, you should mist the plant daily or weekly and keep the soil moist, but not soaked. Even when the weather is hotter, the soil does not need watering more than once every two or three days, since Anthuriums does not soak up large amounts of water from its roots. In case the leaves turn yellow, it may be a sign of overwatering. The best way to keep them alive is to let the soil dry out before watering again.
These plants can also be fertilized, just make sure you do it cautiously. You should keep in mind that newly planted anthuriums do not need fertilizers for at least a few months. In case you decide to apply one in order to encourage its growth and vivid colours, use a slow release 3:1:2 fertilizer and dilute it to 1, 4 which is the recommended strength before applying, according to the instructions.
