Anthurium is a genus of about 1000 species of flowering plants native to the Americas, from Mexico and the Caribbean south to northern Argentina and Uruguay. The genus is the largest in the arum family, Araceae.
Anthurium species are often grown as ornamental houseplants due to their attractive foliage and colorful flowers. The flowers are usually red, pink, or white and are borne on a spadix surrounded by a colorful, heart-shaped bract. The foliage is typically glossy and leathery, and the plants can reach up to 3 feet in height.
Characteristics of Anthuriums
The characteristics of anthurium plants vary depending on the species. Most species are epiphytic, meaning they grow on other plants or trees, while some are terrestrial.
They are typically found in moist, shady areas, while epiphytic species prefer drier, more exposed locations. They are sensitive to cold temperatures and should be protected from frost.
Anthurium leaves are typically large. Some others are heart-shaped, oval, or lance-shaped. The leaves are usually dark green. Depending how they are treated or what is the environment looks like, they may also possess lighter green.
They have unique leaves veins that can be used to identify them. The veins are usually white or yellow and can be seen either on the underside of the leaves or the front leaves. Each and every species of anthuriums have distinct and different veins.
Anthurium Growth
Anthurium species heights can reach up to 3 feet, but most species are much smaller. Anthuriums are relatively easy to care for and can be grown indoors or outdoors. They prefer bright, indirect light and should be kept in temperatures between 65-85°F.
They should be watered regularly, but the soil should be allowed to dry out between watering. Fertilizer should be applied every two weeks during the growing season. Pruning is not necessary, but can be done when there are dead leaves.
Anthurium plants love humidity, so misting them with water can help keep them healthy. If the air is too dry, a humidifier can be used to increase the humidity.
How to Propagate Anthurium Plants
Anthuriums are relatively easy to propagate. They can be propagated by division, stem cuttings, or air layering. Division is the easiest method and involves dividing the plant into two or more sections and replanting them in separate containers.
Stem cuttings can be taken from the tips of the stems and rooted in water or soil. The suggested growing media for growing propagated anthurium plants would be most of growing media except water. While it may be safer to do water propagation, in the case of anthurium plants wouldn't like as much water compared to other genus.
Growing Anthuriums from Seeds
Anthuriums can also be grown from seeds, although this is a more difficult and time-consuming process. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist. The seeds should germinate in about two weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a few inches tall, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
In order to get the seeds to germinate, they must be kept in a warm, humid environment. A heat mat can be used to provide the necessary warmth, and a humidity dome can be used to keep the air moist. The seedlings should be kept in bright, indirect light and watered only when it is not moist.
Anthurium seeds come from the flowers of the plant, and they are very small. It is important to handle them carefully and not to damage them. They are found in the center of the flower, and they are colored in green then turned in yellow as they get older. When the seeds turn to red, they are ready to be harvested.
The flowers of anthurium plants can be mated with other anthuriums to produce new varieties. This is why anthurium lovers love so much anthurium plants due to their wide-range of varieties.
A crossed anthurium plants will produce a new variety with different characteristics. The characteristics will combine the 2 or more anthuriums crossed.
Anthurium Best Spot
Anthuriums can be grown indoors or outdoors, but they should be protected from direct sunlight and cold temperatures. If grown indoors, they should be placed near a window that receives bright, indirect light.
If grown outdoors, they should be placed in a partially shaded area. As mentioned above, the true color of anthuriums is green and/ or darker green. Should you have lighter green, it can be either mistreatment or their true color.
Anthuriums are relatively easy to care for and can make a great addition to any home or garden. With the right care and attention, they can thrive and produce beautiful flowers and foliage for many years.
Prepare anthurium plants for winter
Anthuriums are sensitive to cold temperatures and should be protected from frost. If grown outdoors, they should be brought indoors before the first frost. If grown indoors, they should be kept away from cold drafts and temperatures below 65°F. The soil should be kept slightly moist, but not soggy.
Whatever season it is, fertilizers should be applied every two weeks or your suited desire during the growing season.
In the winter though, most plants should be watered less frequently. They are watered less because they are not actively growing. If you keep giving them the same amount of water during winter, better check the roots for root rot.
Anthurium Pests and Diseases
Dead leaves on anthuriums are usually caused by too much or too little water, or by too much or too little light. If the leaves are yellowing, it may be a sign of too much fertilizer or too much direct sunlight. If the leaves are wilting, it may be a sign of too little water or too much heat or cold temperatures.
If the leaves are spotted or discolored, it may be a sign of a fungal or bacterial disease. If the leaves are covered in a white, powdery substance, it may be a sign of powdery mildew. If the roots are brown or mushy, it may be a sign of root rot. Root rot is caused by too much water or poor drainage.
Anthuriums are sensitive to pests and diseases. The plants should also be kept clean and free of debris.
Common pests and diseases on anthuriums include aphids, mealybugs, scale, spider mites, and root rot. If the pests and diseases are not treated, they can cause serious damage to the plants. To prevent pests and diseases, the plants should be inspected regularly and any affected leaves should be removed.
Although, these pests and diseases on anthurium plants can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.