Learn Plant Care

Anthurium Care Guide

Anthurium andraeanum

By Learn Plant Care·Toxicity verified via ASPCA
Anthurium (Anthurium andraeanum)
Anthurium (Anthurium andraeanum) · Via Wikimedia Commons (CC)

Quick Answer

Anthurium needs watering every 1–2 weeks in summer and every 2–3 weeks in winter. It thrives in bright indirect and temperatures of 6585°F. Difficulty: Easy–Moderate. ⚠️ Toxic to pets — keep away from cats and dogs.

Difficulty

Easy–Moderate

Light

Bright indirect

Watering

Every 1–2 weeks

Humidity

Medium–High (60–80%)

Temperature

65–85°F

Growth Rate

Moderate

Toxicity

⚠️ Toxic to Cats⚠️ Toxic to Dogs Safe for Humans

Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control

Watering

Summer

Every 1–2 weeks

Winter

Every 2–3 weeks

Method: Water when top inch is dry

Light Requirements

Bright indirect

Needs bright indirect to bloom consistently. Avoid direct sun.

Soil & Potting

Soil: Chunky aroid mix (bark + perlite + potting mix)

Pot: Pot with drainage; well-aerated

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature: 6585°F (1829°C)

Humidity: Medium–High (60–80%)

Fertilizing

Frequency: Monthly spring/summer

Type: Phosphorus-rich fertilizer to encourage blooms

Common Problems

Brown spadix → Old bloom. Remove spent flowers at base.

Yellow leaves → Overwatering or too much direct sun.

No new blooms → Needs more light or phosphorus.

Brown tips → Low humidity. Increase with humidifier.

Propagation

Division, stem cuttings

Seasonal Care Calendar

🌸 Spring

Resume fertilizing with bloom-boosting fertilizer. Spring is when new bloom cycles typically begin.

☀️ Summer

Maintain bright indirect light. Water and feed consistently. May bloom continuously.

🍂 Fall

Reduce fertilizing. Deadhead any spent spathes.

❄️ Winter

Reduce watering. Keep warm — very sensitive to cold. Minimum 65°F.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get my anthurium to bloom more?
Needs bright indirect light and a phosphorus-rich fertilizer. Blooms last 2–3 months — deadhead spent spathes.
How often should I water an anthurium?
Every 1–2 weeks in summer, 2–3 weeks in winter. Let top inch dry between waterings.
Why are my anthurium flowers turning green?
Old flowers naturally fade to green before dying — this is normal. Remove spent blooms at the base.
Is anthurium toxic to pets?
Yes — toxic to cats, dogs, and humans. Causes oral burning and GI upset (ASPCA).
Why are my anthurium leaves turning yellow?
Usually overwatering or too much direct sun. Reduce watering frequency and move to indirect light.