Anthuriums: Colourful exotics for your home
Anthuriums, also known as flamingo flowers, are among the most popular houseplants in the world. With their colourful bracts and glossy, leathery leaves, they bring tropical flair to the windowsill. This comprehensive guide provides you with all the important care tips for Anthurium species, from choosing the right location to caring for the flowers. Read on to find out how these easy-care houseplants can thrive in your home.
Autor: Peter Karper
Origin of the anthurium's name
Anthuriums belong to the Araceae family, the arum family. The genus Anthurium comprises around 1000 species, all of which originally come from the tropical rainforest. These plants grow either epiphytically, i.e. on trees, or terrestrially in the ground. The two species Anthurium andreanum and Anthurium scherzerianum are particularly well known for their decorative, colourful bracts.
Anthurium clarinervium is another popular species that impresses with its large, heart-shaped leaves. These Anthurium species originate from the tropics and are very popular as houseplants due to their ease of care. Depending on the species, they grow either as an epiphytic plant or as a ground-dwelling plant.
Flowering time of anthuriums (flamingo flower)
Anthuriums can flower all year round, especially if they are kept under ideal conditions. Anthuriums bloom particularly well in a bright location and bring a tropical flair to any room. The flamingo flower is available in various sizes, from the small flamingo flower to the large flamingo flower, both of which impress with their unique beauty.
Characteristics of anthuriums and their bracts
The flamingo flower, also known as anthurium, is known for its striking bracts, which are often mistaken for flowers. These bracts are usually red, pink, white or other different colours and surround the so-called spadix, which bears the actual flowers. The large, decorative bracts and the glossy, lanceolate leaves give the flamingo flower its characteristic appearance.
Message & meaning of the anthurium
The anthurium symbolises exoticism, beauty and joie de vivre. Its striking bracts and tropical origin make it a symbol of joy and prosperity. The flamingo flower is often given as a token of admiration and appreciation, especially to convey positive emotions and enrich rooms with tropical beauty.
Care tips for the flamingo flower: care tips, fertilising and avoiding draughts
Anthuriums are easy to care for houseplants as long as you understand their tropical needs. The plants prefer a bright location without direct sunlight. Anthuriums do not tolerate bright sunlight or draughts well, so make sure they are in a sheltered spot. The right location is crucial for long-lasting flowering.
The substrate for anthuriums should be permeable and consist of a mixture such as orchid soil and potting soil. A well-drained substrate prevents waterlogging and the associated root rot. The plants should be sprayed regularly to mimic the high humidity of the tropical rainforest. Regular spraying with lime-free water ensures glossy foliage and promotes the plant's well-being.
Occasions for giving the Anthurium as a gift
The anthurium is suitable as a gift for many occasions. Whether as a token of admiration, a lucky charm or to convey joy and exoticism - the anthurium is versatile. It is particularly popular as a gift for birthdays, anniversaries or as an exotic floral greeting that enchants with its tropical look. The anthurium is also ideal as a gift for guests.
Card text templates for the flamingo flower
- "With this exotic flamingo flower, I would like to bring a piece of tropical flair to your home. All my love!"
- "This anthurium stands for joy and exoticism - may it bring you a smile!"
- "A little flower greeting full of colour and tropical beauty for you. Let the anthurium enchant you!"
Frequently asked questions about anthuriums
What is the best substrate for anthuriums?
The best substrate for anthuriums is a mixture of orchid soil, potting soil and expanded clay. This permeable substrate prevents waterlogging and ensures good aeration of the roots.
How do you care for a flamingo flower properly?
Flamingo flower care includes regular watering with lime-free water, a bright location without direct sunlight and spraying the leaves to ensure high humidity.
Are Anthuriums poisonous?
Yes, anthuriums are poisonous. The sap can cause skin irritation and ingestion of the plant parts can cause swallowing difficulties. Anthuriums should therefore be kept out of the reach of children and pets.
How can you propagate Anthuriums?
Anthuriums can be propagated by division or cuttings. Propagation during repotting, when the plant is divided anyway, is particularly suitable.
What is the ideal location for Anthuriums?
A bright location without direct sunlight is ideal for anthuriums. The plants do not tolerate direct sunlight or draughts, so choose a sheltered spot that still provides sufficient light.
Discover more types of flowers in our encyclopaedia
Delve deeper into the world of flowers and find out more about their meaning, care and origin:
*Note: If you click on a link that corresponds to the current page, the page will be reloaded.