Anthurium are tropical epiphytes: in nature they grow on trees rather than in soil. Collector species such as Warocqueanum, Crystallinum and Clarinervium have velvety, veined leaves, while others are grown for long-lasting flowers.
Quick facts
- Light: Bright, indirect light. Velvet types scorch in direct sun but become leggy in deep shade.
- Water: Water when the top third of the mix is dry. The roots need air, so the mix should be damp but never waterlogged. Do not let the pot sit in water.
- Soil: A very airy epiphytic mix: mostly orchid bark and perlite with a little coco coir or sphagnum. Dense potting soil suffocates the roots.
- Temperature and humidity: 18–30 °C (65–85 °F). Velvet types do best at 60% humidity or higher. Gentle air movement helps prevent fungal problems.
- Aerial roots are normal. Cover them with mix or moss rather than cutting them.
- Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth now and then so they can photosynthesise.
- Feeding: balanced liquid fertiliser at half strength every 3–4 weeks in spring and summer; none in winter or low light.
- Pets: toxic to cats and dogs if chewed (contains calcium oxalate crystals). Keep out of reach.
Velvet-leaf species
Velvet species (Warocqueanum, Crystallinum, Clarinervium, Papillilaminum, King Veitchii) grow slowly and produce one new leaf at a time. New leaves are soft and easily damaged, so keep humidity steady and avoid moving the plant while a leaf is unfurling.
Common problems
- Yellow lower leaves: Overwatering, or an old leaf naturally dropping.
- Brown leaf edges: Low humidity or salt build-up.
- Black, mushy roots: Waterlogged or too dense a mix. Repot into a much airier mix.
- No new leaves: Low light, cold or simply patience. Velvet types are slow.
Just arrived from Indonesia?
A long journey stresses any plant. Follow our first two weeks recovery guide before you repot, prune or fertilise.
Shop Anthurium
Browse the Anthurium collection or see all variegated plants.
Other care guides: Monstera · Philodendron · Syngonium · Scindapsus · Aglaonema · Epipremnum