Anthurium is a large genus of about1000 species in the family Araceae, native to the tropical regions of the Americas.
Anthurium has large, lance-shaped or heart-shaped leaves and brightly colored, heart-shaped flower bracts. The spathe, which everyone calls a flower, is just a modified leaf. Its function is to protect the flowers. The real flowers are actually many tiny flowers growing along the spadix, arising from the base of the spathe. Anthurium is popular among flower lovers because of its bright colors, unusual appearance and lasting qualities of flowers.
Name meaning
The genus name is derived from the Greek words “anthos”(flower) and “oura” (tail), referring to the tail-like spadix.
The plant is also known as the “Flamingo Flower” because of its unusual and unique shape.
Anthurium symbolism
Anthurium represents health, happiness, abundance and beauty.
Interesting facts about Anthurium
Flower Structure
What we think of as Anthurium flowers are not actually flowers at all. It is just a modified bract (spathe).
The real flowers are growing around the spadix (the “finger” that sticks out from the spathe), so the actual flower is a fleshy spike of many tiny flowers.
Is Anthurium poisonous?
Anthurium contains chemical compounds that can cause intense pain and irritation when chewed or swallowed. All parts of the plant are poisonous and can cause stomach issues if ingested.
The plant is poisonous to both humans and animals, so be sure to keep it away from children and pets.
Benefits and Uses
Anthurium is a great natural air purifier for your home, especially when the pollution levels are at peak.
In 1989, NASA launched a Clean Air study to determine which household plants are best at purifying the air. In NASA’s Clean Air Study, Anthurium andraeanum was scientifically proven to remove toxins from the air.
Anthurium andraeanum will filter formaldehyde, xylene, toluene, and ammonia out of your environment.
Flamingo flowers are one of the most popular tropical flowers with a long vase life, lasting up to six weeks.
Anthurium Plant Data
Plant Type:
Perennials
Color:
These plants range in color from red to pink, purple, yellow, white and green.
Hardiness Zones:
10-12
Blooms in:
Spring, Autumn, Summer
Height:
The species can grow up to 90 cm (3 ft) in height.
Soil needs:
Anthurium grows best in rich, well drained soil, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
