Anthurium Care: Watering, Light & Keeping Blooms Coming
Anthurium andraeanum
Anthuriums produce the long-lasting glossy heart-shaped 'flowers' (actually modified leaves called spathes) that florists love. Indoors, they bloom on and off year-round in the right conditions.
Watering
Water when the top inch of soil is dry. They like consistent moisture but rot if kept soggy. Always pot in soil that drains freely.
Light
Bright indirect light. Direct sun bleaches the spathes; low light stops flowering entirely.
Humidity
50%+ humidity keeps leaves glossy and encourages blooms. They tolerate average home humidity but reward a humidifier with more flowers.
Soil
Chunky orchid/aroid mix: orchid bark, perlite, sphagnum, and a little potting soil. They're epiphytic and need air at the roots.
Fertilizing
Phosphorus-rich bloom fertilizer (e.g. 5-10-5) at quarter strength every 2 weeks in spring and summer keeps spathes coming.
Toxic to pets and humans (calcium oxalate). The sap irritates skin.
Frequently asked questions
Why isn't my anthurium flowering?
Most often: not enough light, too much nitrogen, or stress from repotting. Move closer to a bright (indirect) window and switch to a bloom-boosting fertilizer.
How long do anthurium flowers last?
Each spathe lasts 6–8 weeks. Healthy plants push new ones every couple of months.
Why are my anthurium leaves turning yellow?
Usually overwatering. Check that the soil drains and let the top inch dry between waterings.
Is anthurium toxic?
Yes — calcium oxalate. Keep away from pets and small children.
What soil does an anthurium need?
Chunky aroid/orchid mix — never plain potting soil, which holds too much water around their epiphytic roots.
Track your Anthurium in PlantbookOS
Adaptive reminders learn your plant's actual dry-down rate in your home — not a generic schedule. Log waterings by voice, snap photos to track growth, and ask FloraAI when something looks off.