The Anthurium originates in the tropical rainforests of South America and belongs to the large Arum family (Araceae). These plants are epiphytes, which means they grow on other plants in nature without extracting nutrients from them. The stems of the Anthurium are 15-30 cm long and the flowers are so small (3 mm) that they are difficult to see. The flowers grow on a fleshy spadix, which is surrounded by a bract. The bract can vary in colour depending on the species: from black, brown and dark green, through white, pink and orange, to bright red and purple. These colourful bracts give the Anthurium the appearance of being in bloom all year round. The stunning blooms are also sold as luxury cut flowers.

Location

The ideal place for the Anthurium is in front of a north-facing window. This will provide the houseplant with enough light to bloom beautifully without incurring leaf damage. If the location in front of a window faces west or east, position the plant one or two metres away. A south-facing window requires a distance of at least three metres, so the window needs to be large enough for the plant still to catch enough light. Too much sunlight will cause the leaves to turn yellow or scorch, whereas with too little sun, the plant will produce fewer new leaves or flowers or none at all. You should also make sure the plant is not in a draught.

Watering

Although the Anthurium doesn't need a lot of water, it does prefer a slightly moist soil. It's best to water it a little at a time, ensuring that the excess water can drain off to prevent root rot. In the winter months, the plant needs less water and the soil can be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.

Spraying and Temperature

Although not essential, the Anthurium benefits greatly from regular waterings. They increase the humidity of the living environment, which the plant appreciates because of its tropical origin. In addition, it helps the plant to stay healthy and even increases the chance of new flowers. The water spray also rinses the dust straight off the leaf, resulting in an attractive sheen and enabling it to catch more light. Plenty of reasons to spoil the Anthurium with a regular spray! This should preferably be done with rainwater or decalcified water to prevent lime spots on the leaves. The Anthurium loves warmth and requires a minimum temperature of 16°C during the day and 10°C at night.

Pruning

You can keep the Anthurium in good condition by cutting off faded flowers and old unsightly leaves. The plant then no longer has to invest energy in them. This will also stimulate the production of new leaves and flowers. Trim the wilted flowers and leaves as low as possible.

Nutrition

With its almost continual flowering, the Anthurium will benefit from some extra nutrition — preferably plant food intended for flowering plants. The recommended quantity and the number of feedings are stated on the plant food packaging. Never give more than the recommended amount stated on the packaging, as this can harm the plant. In the autumn and winter months, extra nutrition is not necessary. Refraining from fertilising during this period stimulates the Anthurium to form buds.

The plant genus Anthurium consists of 600 species and belongs to the Arum family. The most popular variants are available from Nieuwkoop Europe. Feel free to contact us for more information.

Anthurium elliptic

The Anthurium ellipticum has several cultivars including the Anthurium ellipticum "Jungle" hybrids and the "Jungle bush", both of which you will find in our range. The Jungle hybrid variety has long, sturdy, upright bracts with a beautiful gloss. The Jungle bush is a smaller species, featuring large and copious foliage. Hence the name "Jungle bush." Both are green varieties that do not display a conspicuous bloom.

Anthurium andraeanum

When there's any talk of the Anthurium, most people will mean the profusely flowering Anthurium andreaeanum, also known as the flamingo plant. With bracts that can vary in colour from brown to black, and from white, pink and red to purple, this houseplant will brighten any room. The varieties in our range include Anthurium andraeanum "Sierra" with deep red bracts, the striking purple-coloured "Cirano", and the romantic "Sweet Dream" with soft pink bracts. For a more discreet variety, consider the white flowering Anthurium andraeanum "Alaska" or the hardy black Anthurium andraeanum "Black".

Anthurium "Arrow"

The elegant Anthurium "Arrow" owes its name to the large arrow-shaped leaves. This plant has long petioles that grow from small stalks. The flower of the Anthurium "Arrow" is not particularly eye-catching, but the special growth habit and strong, sturdy leaves more than compensate for that.

View our Anthurium assortment