Anthurium Hybrids Care Instructions

Taxonomic Name: Anthurium cultivated varieties

Arum Family

Herbaceous Plants

Few houseplants combine the potential for beautiful flowering with long-term durability. However, the hybrid anthuriums do just that. When in bloom, they sport flower heads with small, waxy spikes subtended by bracts that are red, hot pink, lavender, or white--depending on the plant variety. When not in bloom, their glossy, dark green leaves still provide plenty of visual interest. Propagated by "hi-tech" tissue culture methods, the hybrid anthuriums are some of the stars of the modern houseplant trade.

How to Care for Your Plant:

LIGHT: Bright indirect sunlight is preferable--for example, near an unobstructed eastern or northern window. Red Hot anthuriums will often survive in artificially lit spaces for many months, but eventually they must be returned to natural light or they will languish.

WATERING: Make sure the soil surface dries between waterings. When the soil surface is dry to the touch, water the plant thoroughly. At least a little water should come out of the pot's bottom drainage holes, but the plant should not stand in saucer water for more than thirty minutes.  

FEEDING: Sparingly use a high-phosphorus (high middle number) fertilizer. Apply at one-quarter the concentration and feeding frequency listed in the product directions. 

POTENTIAL PROBLEMS: Hybrid anthuriums may be sensitive to alkaline soil and to an accumulation of soil-borne lime and salts. Repot your plant every one or two years with plenty of fresh soil.