Anthurium plants are tropical origin flowering plants that are known for their beautiful, vibrant flowers and glossy foliage. Not only that, nowadays, you can easily find and even buy anthuriums with dark and lighter coloring on their foliage. They belong to the Araceae family.

For flowering anthuriums, they are popular as ornamental houseplants and are commonly grown for their long-lasting flowers, which come in various colors like red, pink, orange, and white.

Nowadays, people have recognized them and have started to buy or even import anthurium plants from, say Indonesia, United States of America, Canada or any other parts of the world.

Origin of Anthurium Plants

Anthurium plants are native to the tropical regions of Central and South America. They primarily originate from the rainforests of Colombia and Ecuador. These countries have a diverse range of Anthurium species growing in their natural habitats.

The genus Anthurium belongs to the Araceae family, which is known for its large and diverse group of tropical plants. Within the Anthurium genus, there are over 1,000 species, with varying flower shapes, colors, and leaf patterns.

Anthuriums have been cultivated and appreciated for their attractive foliage and showy flowers for many years. Due to their beauty and versatility as indoor plants, they have been widely propagated and introduced to different parts of the world.

Today, Anthurium plants are grown not only in their native regions but also in many other countries with suitable climates. With the ability of people around the world to buy or import plant from other parts of the world, we can just get our hands on almost any plants we wanted.

They are popular as ornamental plants in gardens, as cut flowers, and as potted plants for interior decoration. The global horticultural trade has contributed to the widespread distribution and popularity of Anthurium plants in various parts of the world.

Anthurium Leaves

Anthurium leaves are known for their glossy texture, vibrant colors, and distinctive heart-shaped or elongated shapes. The leaves of Anthurium plants play an important role in their overall aesthetic appeal and are a key feature that adds to their beauty. Below are some characteristics and variations of Anthurium leaves:

1. Shape

Anthurium leaf shapes vary depending on the species and cultivar. While the general characteristic of Anthurium leaves is a heart-shaped or elongated form, there are variations within these categories.

Heart-shaped (Cordate)

This is the classic leaf shape of Anthuriums. The leaves have a broad, rounded base that tapers to a point at the tip, resembling the shape of a heart. The width and length of the heart-shaped leaves can vary, with some being more elongated and others more rounded.

Oblong

Oblong-shaped Anthurium leaves are elongated with parallel sides and a tapered tip. They are longer and narrower compared to heart-shaped leaves, giving them a slenderer appearance.

Lanceolate

Lanceolate leaves are elongated, slender, and taper to a point at both ends. They are similar to oblong leaves but tend to be narrower and have a more pronounced taper.

Arrow-shaped

Some Anthurium species or cultivars have arrow-shaped leaves. These leaves have a distinct arrowhead-like shape, with a broad base that narrows to a pointed tip. The sides of the leaf are usually straight or slightly concave.

Lobed

Certain Anthurium varieties exhibit deeply lobed leaves. These leaves have distinct indentations or lobes along the edges, creating an intricate and unique appearance.

Round

As it implies, round anthurium leaf is literally rounded leaves. Far as I’ve done my research, there’s only one species of anthurium plants with rounded leaves and that is Anthurium Dorayaki.

It's important to note that leaf shapes can also vary within a single Anthurium species, and there may be hybrids or cultivars with unique leaf forms. The specific leaf shape of an Anthurium plant can be influenced by genetic factors, environmental conditions, and individual growth patterns.

2. Texture

In normal circumstance, Anthurium leaves typically have a smooth and glossy texture.

Smooth

Anthurium leaves have a relatively smooth surface, free of prominent hairs or roughness. This smoothness gives them a sleek and polished appearance.

Lack of hairs

Anthurium leaves typically do not have visible hairs or trichomes on their surface. This absence of hairs contributes to their smooth texture.

Even surface

The leaf surface of Anthurium plants is generally uniform and free from irregularities or rough patches. It feels consistently smooth to the touch.

There are cases where anthurium leaves surface is not even or smooth. That is typically due to pests or diseases. An even typical cause of such event to take place is due to our own hands. By touching young leaves, that may cause the leaves to have rough surface almost similar to chlorosis.

Some other times, the rub or touch of our dirty hands will cause leaves to not fully grow. You might see some holes on the leaves. Not only our hands, some other factors such as insects may also cause such event.

Young leaves are very vulnerable, so make sure to protect them.

Sleek appearance

The smooth texture of Anthurium leaves gives them a sleek and polished look. This smoothness enhances the visual appeal of the foliage and adds to the overall attractiveness of the plant.

Enhanced reflection

The absence of hairs or roughness on the leaf surface allows light to reflect evenly, contributing to the glossy or shiny appearance of Anthurium leaves.

The smooth texture of Anthurium leaves is one of the characteristics that make them desirable as ornamental plants. It adds to their aesthetic appeal, and the lack of roughness makes them pleasant to touch.

Glossy

The leaves of Anthurium plants often have a glossy or shiny sheen. This lustrous texture adds to their aesthetic appeal and makes them visually striking.

Leathery

Anthurium leaves have a leathery or thick texture, which is an adaptation to their natural tropical habitats. This characteristic helps the leaves retain moisture and withstand higher humidity levels.

Firm

The leaves of Anthuriums are firm and sturdy, providing structural support to the plant. They hold their shape well and are less prone to wilting or drooping.

Waxy

In addition to their smooth and glossy texture, some Anthurium leaves may have a slightly waxy coating. This waxy layer can enhance their shine and provide a protective barrier against moisture loss. This is probably easily seen when you use a microscope.

In their younger age of leaves, they are visible. Something like clear layer on top of the leaves.

It's important to note that leaf texture can vary between different Anthurium species and cultivars. Some varieties may have leaves with a softer or thinner texture, while others may have more pronounced textural characteristics. The specific leaf texture of an Anthurium plant can be influenced by factors such as genetics, environmental conditions, and individual growth patterns.

3. Veins

Anthurium leaves often display prominent veins, adding visual interest and texture to the foliage. These veins add texture and create visually appealing patterns on the leaf surface.

Vein patterns

Anthurium leaves typically exhibit a network of veins that branch out from the central midrib (the main vein). These secondary veins extend towards the edges of the leaf, creating a complex and intricate pattern.

Locally, vein patterns are used as one of the considerations in assessing anthurium plants. An anthurium will be referred to Anthurium B due to minimal veins. Where another anthurium will be referred to Anthurium A due to spready veins.

There are cases where anthurium veins are colored in reddish color. As of today, only Anthurium Red Crystalinum are known to have such pattern of veins. Some locals have tried to cross these red vein anthurium with other type of vein colors / vein patterns. There’s not much of a distinct vein patterns achieved.

Red Anthurium Crystallinums are sold everywhere nowadays. Maybe you should buy anthurium red crystallinum and cross them with other anthuriums by yourself and see what outcome you may achieve. They’re really one of a kind!

Prominence

The veins of Anthurium leaves can vary in prominence. In some varieties, the veins are more raised and pronounced, creating a textured appearance on the leaf surface. In others, the veins may be sunken or less visible, giving a smoother appearance.

Contrasting colors

The veins of Anthurium leaves often contrast with the color of the leaf tissue. They can be of various colors, including white, red cream, light green, or even pinkish hues. This contrast adds visual appeal and creates striking patterns on the leaf surface.

Functionality

Veins play an important role in the transport of water, nutrients, and sugars throughout the leaf. They help distribute these essential resources to the leaf cells, ensuring proper growth and functioning of the plant.

As mentioned above, anthurium veins is also used by the Indonesian locals to determine a certain type of anthurium. Veins are symbols of anthurium plants and that’s one of the many ways to differentiate them.

Leaf division

The veins of Anthurium leaves can divide the leaf blade into distinct sections or lobes. In some species or cultivars, the veins may contribute to the formation of lobed or deeply divided leaf shapes.

The vein patterns in Anthurium leaves can vary among different species and cultivars. The specific vein characteristics of an Anthurium plant can contribute to its unique appearance and may be influenced by genetics, environmental conditions, and individual growth patterns. The intricate vein patterns add to the overall beauty and visual appeal of Anthurium foliage

4. Leaf Color

Green

The majority of Anthurium leaves are green, ranging from light and vibrant shades to deeper and darker greens. The green color is due to the presence of chlorophyll, which is essential for photosynthesis.

Variegated

Some Anthurium cultivars feature variegated leaves. Variegation refers to the presence of patterns, streaks, or patches of contrasting colors on the leaf surface. The variegation can include shades of white, cream, pink, yellow, or other colors, creating a visually appealing and unique appearance.

Common Variegated Anthurium Plants

For some reasons, not all anthuriums can generate variegated leaves. Even if there was a variegated leaf spotted, it may or may not continue later on in the following leaves. Meaning that it’s not consistent and most locals wouldn’t label them as “variegated anthurium” once it’s not showing anymore variegation.

Anthurium Clarinervium Variegated

They are commonly and top-selling anthurium species with variegation. Current known colors of variegation are white and yellow.

Anthurium Magnificum Variegated

Not even near the top-selling variegated anthurium. These guys are harder in generating variegated leaves. Current known colors of variegation are white and yellow.

Anthurium Crystallinum Variegated

This would be the second top-selling if not most on-demand variegated anthurium in the market.  Current known colors of variegation are white and yellow.

Anthurium Jenmanii Variegated

The underrated variegated anthurium. While it’s true that they are easier in generating variegated leaves, the market price of these guys is not as sky-high compared to the rest of variegated anthuriums. Current known colors of variegation are yellow and pink.

Anthurium Hookeri Variegated

One of the top-selling and on-demand variegated anthurium. Current known variegation colors are white, yellow, mint & pink.

Anthurium Vittarifolium Variegated

Still pretty much highly priced but not quite on-demand. Current known variegation color is yellow.

Anthurium Forgetii Variegated

Not many people know about these guys. The fact that it’s still priced pretty high and with somewhat “doubtful” type of variegation, the market can’t gamble too much on this one. Unless you find one with really firm colorization of variegated leaves, then just wait to buy these guys. Current known variegation colors are white and mint.

Anthurium Watermaliense Variegated

It’s the least variegated anthurium plants that plant lovers know. There’s not much information on this variant. Current known variegation colors are white and yellow.

Red and Burgundy

Certain Anthurium species or cultivars have leaves that naturally display shades of red, maroon, or burgundy. These deep and rich colors can be found on both the upper and lower surfaces of the leaves.

Silver and Gray

Certain Anthurium plants have leaves with silver or gray tones. These colors can create a unique contrast against other plants and add a touch of sophistication to the overall appearance.

The only anthurium leaves with such color would be anthurium dorayaki silver blush. It’s a hybrid originated from Indonesia.

It's important to note that the specific leaf colors can vary depending on the species, cultivar, and individual growth conditions. Additionally, Anthurium leaves may exhibit color changes as they mature or in response to environmental factors such as light intensity or temperature. The diverse range of leaf colors in Anthurium plants contributes to their overall beauty and makes them popular choices for indoor and outdoor ornamental use.

5. Leaf Size

In general, leaf size is often correlated with the plant's overall size. Larger plants tend to have larger leaves, which helps them capture more sunlight for photosynthesis. However, there are exceptions to this rule, and leaf size can also be influenced by other factors.

There’s not much to say on the “small” size of anthurium plants since these smaller sizes will eventually ending up growing larger or longer. The largest anthurium plant size I know (and I did grow them myself) was 80 cm in length and 65 cm in width. It was anthurium magnificum hybrid.

So, I’d say the anthurium magnificum variant would be the only one variant with the highest chance of getting largest leaves compared to the rest of anthurium species.

6. Leaf Longevity

Broadly speaking, the longevity of anthurium leaves depend on so many factors. These factors include, not limited to:

Anthurium species or cultivar

Some anthurium leaf species wither faster such as:

Anthurium crystallinum

Anthurium magnificum

Certain variants of anthurium clarinervium

 

Some others easily keep their older leaves intact, such as:

Anthurium vittarifolium

Anthurium radicans

Anthurium tweed

Anthurium dorayaki

Anthurium hookeri

Anthurium jenmanii

Anthurium forgetii

Certain variants of anthurium clarinervium

Environmental conditions

Care

Anthurium Stems

Did you know that anthurium plants have their respective type of stems? In length, the stems are either short or long. In terms of stem structure, did you know that certain anthuriums have particular structure of stems? Yes, they do. Let’s dig in. Note: they may not cover ALL OR ENTIRE SPECIES, however this event of occurrence has been spotted and noticed for frequent times.

1. Anthurium “Square” Stem

Literally, the stems are square on four sides. Note that there’s not even a slight bump or curve on the four-sides.

Common Anthurium Plants with this type of stem:

Anthurium magnificum

Anthurium dorayaki silver

2. Anthurium “D” Stem

Same as the square stem, this type of stem is forming the letter “D”. One side is flat smooth and the rest are curving.

Common Anthurium Plants with this type of stem:

Anthurium magnificum verde

Anthurium magnificum

Anthurium hookeri black

Anthurium hookeri pink variegated

Anthurium hookeri yellow variegated

Anthurium dorayaki silver

3. Anthurium “Round” Stem

This type of stem is the most common structure of stem on the existing known anthurium plants. There’s not flat or curve only round (circle).

Common Anthurium Plants with this type of stem:

Anthurium crystallinum

Anthurium radicans

Anthurium Plants Care

How to care anthurium plants

Since it’s tropical plants, when grown outside of this type of climate, certain measurements must be taken into account. Otherwise they won’t thrive to the fullest. Even if they’re grown in countries like Indonesia or South American countries, the following care guide ought to be considered.

Anthurium Light Requirements

Bright, Indirect Light

Placing anthurium plants in a location where they can receive bright but indirect sunlight is strongly recommended. Indirect sunlight keeps the anthurium leaves cool. In terms of the leaves’ longevity it is also very good.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Although they could tolerate direct sunlight, in terms of the plants’ longevity, but for the leaves that’s not good at all. Direct sunlight is very bad for the longevity of the leaves’ color and health. The leaves are gradually dying from scorch.

Low Light Tolerance

Anthurium plants absolutely favor bright, indirect light much better. However, they can tolerate lower light conditions at certain length of periods. If you have limited natural light in your home or office, there are still ways to keep your Anthurium healthy. Here are some tips for caring for Anthurium plants in low light conditions:

Choose the right location

Place your Anthurium plant in the brightest area available with indirect light. This could be near a north-facing window or away from direct sunlight in a well-lit room. Avoid placing it too far from any source of light, as it still requires some level of brightness.

Supplement with artificial light

If natural light is limited, you can use artificial lighting to supplement the light requirements of your Anthurium. LED grow lights or full-spectrum fluorescent lights can provide the necessary light spectrum for plant growth. Position the lights a few feet above the plant and keep them on for 10-12 hours per day.

Rotate the plant

If your Anthurium is in a low-light area, regularly rotate the plant to ensure that all sides receive some light. This will prevent the plant from leaning or growing towards the light source, promoting even growth.

Monitor watering

In low light conditions, Anthurium plants require less water because their growth rate slows down. Be careful not to overwater, as the plant may take longer to dry out. Allow the top inch of the soil to dry before watering again to prevent waterlogging.

Avoid fertilizer overload

With reduced light, the plant's growth rate slows down, so it requires less fertilization. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, and apply it every 2-3 months during the growing season. Avoid excessive fertilization, as it can lead to salt buildup in the soil.

Monitor plant health

Anthuriums in low light conditions may have slower growth and produce fewer flowers. Monitor the plant closely for any signs of stress, such as yellowing or wilting leaves. If the plant shows signs of decline, consider providing more light or relocating it to a brighter spot.

Remember that while Anthuriums can tolerate low light conditions, they will thrive and produce more vibrant blooms in brighter light. If possible, try to provide them with brighter conditions for optimal growth and flowering.

Avoid Dark Areas

Dark areas are 100% not recommended for an established anthurium plant. This type of area is commonly used to grow seeds in my local growers. Even those grown in darker areas still receive indirect sunlight. The dark area is useful to obtain good humidity. Where it is required by seeds. They grow faster in very humid areas.

Once the seeds sprout new growth, they must be exposed to sunlight.

Humidity

Since anthurium plants are native to tropical regions, it’s commonly known that they thrive in high humidity environments. An adequate humidity levels promote healthy foliage, encourage flowering, and prevent issues like dryness and browning of the leaves. Below are recommended humidity levels:

Moderate to High Humidity

Place your anthurium plants in a room with naturally higher humidity. Natural areas of humidity would be bathroom or kitchen. They tend to have more moisture in the air due to regular showering or cooking.

Bathroom is also good spot for acclimation. Of course, a good air circulation must be considered.

Humidity Tray or Pebble Tray

Not recommended

Room Humidifiers

Room humidifiers absolutely increase humidity levels. An appropriate humidity range for anthurium plants is 60% to 80. It’s really depending your environment, so make sure to always observe and adjust the levels.

Grouping Plants Together

This would be another natural humidifier. By gathering plants in one area and close one another, it’ll create microclimate with increased humidity. As they release moisture though transpiration, the collective effect can raise the humidity in their immediate surroundings.

Misting Anthurium

Regulating misting for anthurium plants will simulate the humid conditions it prefers. Only spray to the leaves is sufficient. It’s not watering, so you don’t want to really spray the leaves too much. A good time for misting would be in the morning.

Air Circulation

Air circulation is the exact opposite of humid area. It is the good flow of air where anthurium plants are grown. While stagnant air (humid) when exposed too much on established anthurium plant will inevitably cause problems like fungal diseases and pest infestations.

You may encounter your anthurium leaves edges turning brown or yellow, in addition due to overwater, it may also due to the lack of air circulation in that particular area.

Maintain proper spacing

Avoid overcrowding your Anthurium plants. Leave enough space between each plant to allow for air movement. Crowded plants impede air circulation and create a humid microclimate that could potentially promote disease. Grouping anthurium plants is good at a specific of numbers. Keep observing the plants.

Use fans

Position a small fan in the room where your Anthurium is located. Set it to a low or medium speed to promote gentle air movement. This will help prevent the buildup of stagnant air around the plant and promote better ventilation.

Placement of the fans is really conditional. One for sure, do not place it too close to your anthurium plants. You don’t want your anthurium plants that you buy costly ruined; the leaves. Especially the new leaves; they are prone to defects when being swayed or touched.

Open windows or doors

When weather conditions permit, open windows or doors to allow fresh air to circulate in the room. This helps remove stagnant air and replenish oxygen levels. However, be cautious of drafty or excessively cold conditions, as Anthuriums prefer warm temperatures.

Avoid drafts

While air circulation is important, it's crucial to protect your Anthurium plants from direct drafts, such as those caused by open windows, vents, or air conditioning units. Direct drafts can lead to stress and temperature fluctuations, which may negatively impact the plant's health.

Rotate the plant

Regularly rotate the Anthurium plant to ensure that all sides receive adequate airflow. This promotes even growth and prevents the plant from leaning towards a single direction in search of light.

By implementing these practices, you can create a well-ventilated environment for your Anthurium plants, reducing the risk of fungal diseases and maintaining their overall health.

Natural Ventilation

Natural ventilation would probably be pretty difficult to do especially in 4-seasons countries. It would require parts of your house to have few if not many holes to let the outside air coming in. This type of house is common in Indonesia.

Watering Anthurium

Anthurium Watering Frequency & Method

Watering frequency and method are inseparable. Both depends on various factors, including anthurium plants size, environmental conditions, potting medium used, and humidity levels. It's important to strike a balance to avoid overwatering or underwatering. Here are some general guidelines for watering Anthurium plants:

Check the soil moisture

Before watering, check the moisture level of the soil. Insert your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry at that depth, it's usually a good indication that the plant needs watering. If the soil feels slightly moist, you can wait a little longer before watering.

It’s commonly between 3 days or after 4 days that the growing medium is almost dried out or just simply need watering. It entirely depends on the type of growing media used.

Water thoroughly

When you water, ensure that you provide enough water to thoroughly moisten the entire root ball. Water until it drains out of the bottom of the pot, ensuring good water penetration. This helps flush out any accumulated salts and ensures adequate hydration.

Remember that “humid” is not keeping the water inside the growing media. You want the water to wet all the inside of the pot and just flow out under.

Consider the potting medium

Anthuriums are typically grown in a well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark. This type of medium allows excess water to drain away, reducing the risk of waterlogged roots. Adjust your watering frequency based on the characteristics of your potting medium.

Adjust watering according to environmental conditions

Environmental factors, such as temperature, humidity, and light levels, can affect the watering needs of your Anthurium. Higher temperatures and brighter light may increase the rate of water evaporation, requiring more frequent watering. Conversely, lower light conditions and cooler temperatures may slow down water usage, resulting in less frequent watering.

Observe plant response

Pay attention to how your Anthurium plant reacts to your watering routine. If the leaves appear yellowed or droopy, it may indicate overwatering. If the leaves appear dry, crispy, or wilted, it may indicate underwatering. Adjust your watering frequency accordingly to maintain optimal soil moisture.

Remember that these guidelines are general recommendations, and the watering needs of individual plants may vary. It's essential to observe your Anthurium closely and adapt your watering routine to suit its specific requirements (environment). By finding the right balance, you can ensure that your Anthurium remains healthy and well-hydrated.

Avoid Overwatering

Overwatering is one of the many causes of anthurium leaves to wither faster. In addition, it also causes the roots to rot. Here are some ideas you could implement to avoid killing your anthurium plants:

Water deeply but infrequently

When you water, do so thoroughly, allowing water to flow out of the drainage holes. This ensures that the entire root ball is adequately hydrated. However, it's important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering to avoid keeping the roots constantly saturated.

Avoid standing water

Don't let your Anthurium sit in a saucer or tray filled with water. Standing water can lead to waterlogged conditions, which can be detrimental to the plant's roots. Empty any excess water from the saucer after watering.

Consider the pot size

Ensure that your Anthurium plant is in an appropriately sized pot. If the pot is too large in proportion to the plant's root system, it can retain excess moisture, leading to overwatering. Choose a pot that allows for healthy root growth and proper drainage.

Remember that it's better to underwater slightly than to overwater an Anthurium plant. Anthuriums can tolerate slight drying of the soil between watering periods, but they are more sensitive to overwatering. By practicing moderation and paying attention to the plant's needs, you can help prevent overwatering and maintain a healthy Anthurium plant.

Room-Temperature Water

Do not water your anthurium plants with hot or cold water. Just use room-temperature water.

Water Quality

The water quality you use for Anthurium plants can have an impact on their overall health and growth. Here are some considerations for water quality:

Use filtered or purified water

Anthurium plants are sensitive to chemicals, such as chlorine and fluoride, which are commonly found in tap water. Using filtered or purified water can help remove these chemicals, providing a safer water source for your plants. You can use store-bought filtered water or install a water filtration system at home.

However, you are free to do your own trial and error by using tap water. Since it’s easier to use that water.

Avoid softened water

Water that has been treated with a water softener may contain high levels of salt, which can be harmful to Anthurium plants. Softened water should be avoided when watering Anthuriums, as the accumulation of salts in the soil can lead to root damage. If you have a water softener, it's best to use an alternative water source for your plants.

Rainwater

Collecting rainwater is an excellent option for watering Anthurium plants. Rainwater is naturally soft and free from chemicals, making it a beneficial choice for sensitive plants. Place containers or barrels outside to collect rainwater and use it for watering as needed.

Beware that you can use the rainwater to water your anthurium plants after few weeks being contained in the barrels. This is done to let the nature take out the unwanted chemicals in the rainwater.

We growers in Indonesia do not specifically use rainwater to water our anthuriums. We don’t contain them in barrels or such. We even spray our anthuriums that got watered by rainwater with our daily water used. It’s done so that it’ll balance the whatever substances contained in the rainwater.

Commonly, when not watered, a full intake of rainwater will inevitably rot the roots or presenting fungi to the leaves.

Adjust Watering on Different Seasons

The watering needs of Anthurium plants can vary depending on the seasons and environmental conditions. Here are some general guidelines for watering Anthurium plants during different seasons:

Spring and Summer

During the active growing season, Anthurium plants may require more frequent watering due to increased evaporation and higher temperatures. Monitor the soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch of the soil feels slightly dry. It's important to maintain moist but not waterlogged soil. Adjust the frequency of watering based on the specific needs of your plant and the prevailing weather conditions.

Fall

As temperatures start to cool down in the fall, Anthurium plants generally require less water. Reduce the frequency of watering and allow the soil to dry out slightly more between watering. However, continue to monitor the plant's moisture needs, as environmental conditions can still vary during this season.

Winter

During the winter months, Anthurium plants experience a period of rest. The plant's growth slows down, and it requires less water. Decrease the watering frequency further and allow the soil to dry out more between watering. Be cautious not to let the soil become completely dry, as this can lead to stress and damage to the plant. Monitor the soil moisture and adjust the watering schedule accordingly.

It's important to remember that these guidelines are general recommendations, and the specific watering needs of your Anthurium may vary based on factors such as humidity levels, indoor temperature, pot size, and the overall health of the plant. Always assess the soil moisture before watering and consider the plant's response to determine the appropriate watering frequency. Over time, you will develop a better understanding of your Anthurium's individual needs and be able to adjust your watering routine accordingly.

Soil for Anthurium plants

Anthurium plants thrive in a well-draining soil mix that provides good aeration and moisture retention. Here are some considerations when choosing or creating a suitable soil mix for Anthurium plants:

Organic matter

Anthuriums benefit from a soil mix that contains organic matter, such as peat moss or coconut coir. These materials help retain moisture while also improving the soil's structure and drainage.

Perlite or vermiculite

Adding perlite or vermiculite to the soil mix improves drainage and aeration, preventing waterlogging and ensuring that the roots have access to oxygen.

Orchid bark or pine bark

Including orchid bark or pine bark in the soil mix promotes good drainage and allows air circulation around the roots. These materials also break down slowly, providing organic matter over time.

Avoid heavy, compacted soils

Anthurium plants dislike heavy, compacted soils that can retain excessive moisture and lead to root rot. Avoid using soil mixes that contain a high proportion of dense materials like clay or garden soil.

pH level

Anthuriums generally prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. Ensure that the soil mix you choose or create falls within this range.

Commercial potting mixes

Pre-made potting mixes labeled specifically for tropical or foliage plants can be suitable for Anthuriums. These mixes are usually formulated with the right combination of organic matter, drainage materials, and pH balance. However, you ought to still check the contents before buying the potting mixes.

If you prefer to make your own soil mix, you can start with a base of peat moss or coconut coir and then add equal parts of perlite, orchid bark, and regular potting soil. Adjust the proportions based on the specific needs of your Anthurium and the prevailing humidity and temperature conditions in your growing environment.

Anthurium Fertilization

One or two things to note on anthurium plants is that they are the type of slow to medium growing. Not the fast type to grow plants. Expect one and a maximum of two leaves growing out monthly. That’s normal. However, the use of fertilizer is still recommended in order to keep the potting mixes to be filled with nutrition. It is correlated with the nutrition intake for the anthurium plants. You don’t want to let the potting mix to be running out of nutrition.

There are so many types of fertilizers for anthurium plants. To grow faster, make leaves greener/ darker, roots growth etc. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions: Read and follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging carefully. The recommended dosage and frequency of application may vary depending on the specific fertilizer brand and formulation.

Repotting Anthurium

Remember to repot your Anthurium plant every time the roots are overgrown, or when you notice the soil becoming overly compacted or waterlogging occurring. Repotting allows you to refresh the soil mix and ensure optimal growing conditions for your Anthurium plant.

Repotting Anthurium plants is an important maintenance task that helps ensure their continued health and growth. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to repot an Anthurium plant:

Choose the right time

The best time to repot an Anthurium plant is during its active growth period, typically in the spring or early summer. This allows the plant to recover quickly from any root disturbance.

Select a suitable pot

Choose a new pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Anthuriums prefer being slightly root-bound, so avoid pots that are excessively larger, as this can lead to waterlogging and slow root growth. Ensure the new pot has drainage holes at the bottom to allow excess water to escape.

Prepare the new potting mix

Prepare a well-draining potting mix suitable for Anthurium plants. A mix of peat moss, perlite, orchid bark, and regular potting soil is commonly used. Adjust the proportions based on the specific needs of your Anthurium and prevailing conditions.

Water the plant

Before repotting, thoroughly water the Anthurium plant. This helps moisten the soil, making it easier to remove the plant from its current pot without causing excessive root damage.

Gently remove the plant from its pot

Carefully turn the pot upside down while supporting the base of the plant with your hand. Tap or squeeze the sides of the pot to loosen the root ball. Once loosened, gently slide the plant out of the pot.

Inspect and prune roots (if necessary)

Examine the root system for any signs of rot, damage, or excessive growth. If you notice any rotting or damaged roots, trim them off with clean and sharp pruning shears. However, avoid cutting healthy roots unnecessarily.

Place the plant in the new pot

Position the Anthurium plant in the center of the new pot. Add fresh potting mix around the sides, ensuring the root ball is adequately covered. Gently press the soil to secure the plant in place, but avoid packing it tightly.

Water and settle the soil

After repotting, water the plant thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom of the pot. This helps settle the soil and ensures good contact between the roots and the new potting mix.

Allow the plant to adjust

Place the repotted Anthurium in a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight immediately after repotting, as it can stress the plant. Let the plant settle in its new pot for a few days before resuming normal care.

Adjust watering and fertilizing

After repotting, adjust your watering and fertilizing routine accordingly. Water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels slightly dry and resume regular fertilization during the active growing season.

Remember to monitor your Anthurium plant closely after repotting, ensuring it receives appropriate care and adjusts well to its new pot. Proper repotting can provide your Anthurium with fresh nutrients and space for healthy root growth, contributing to its overall well-being.