About
Anthurium, the flamingo flowers, are a spectacular genus of tropical evergreen perennials grown for their large, glossy, heart-shaped or arrow-shaped leaves and their extraordinary, long-lasting, waxy, spathe-and-spadix inflorescences in vivid shades of red, pink, white and orange. Among the most striking of all houseplants and greenhouse perennials.
About the genus
Anthurium are evergreen perennial or subshrubby aroids native to tropical America, producing large, often heart-shaped or arrow-shaped, glossy leaves and a showy, waxy spathe surrounding a central spadix. The spathe may be red, pink, white, orange or green. Popular as long-lasting cut flowers and ornamental houseplants.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Annual Biennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow
Native toEurasia
ToxicityHumans/Pets (dogs, cats): Harmful to skin with sunlight. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. It is a biennial or short-lived perennial. See cow parsley for more information
PruningDeadhead to prevent prolific self-seeding
PropagationPropagate by seed. Sow seeds in a cold frame in autumn or spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slug, snail and caterpillar damage on young growth
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews