Anthurium andraeanum Flamingo Flower

Anthurium andraeanum – Flamingo Flower Description

Anthurium andraeanum, commonly known as the Flamingo Flower, is a classic tropical ornamental prized for its long-lasting, brightly coloured spathes and glossy green foliage. Native to the rainforests of Colombia and Ecuador, this species produces vibrant waxy spathes in shades of red, pink, orange, or white, each with a contrasting yellow or cream spadix. The blooms can last for weeks, making it a favourite both as a potted ornamental and a cut flower. Its upright, clumping growth and year-round flowering habit make it an ideal feature plant indoors or in shaded outdoor plantings.

Care Plan

Light:

• Prefers bright, indirect light.

• Tolerates medium light but flowering will be reduced.

• Avoid harsh direct sun, which can scorch leaves and spathes.

Watering:

• Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged.

• Allow the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry between waterings.

• Reduce watering slightly during cooler months.

Humidity:

• Thrives in high humidity (60%+).

• Average household humidity is tolerated but higher humidity promotes better growth and flowering.

Temperature:

• Optimal range: 18–28°C.

• Sensitive to cold; avoid temperatures below 15°C.

Soil:

• Requires a light, free-draining, organic-rich mix (orchid bark, coco coir, perlite).

• Good aeration around roots is essential.

Fertiliser:

• Apply a high-phosphorus liquid fertiliser every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer to encourage blooms.

• Reduce feeding in autumn and winter.

Maintenance:

• Remove faded spathes and yellow leaves to promote fresh growth.

• Repot every 2–3 years when root bound.

• Beneficial to stake larger plants to keep spathes upright.

Propagation: