Anthurium Scherzerianum

If you’re looking for a houseplant that brings a long-lasting pop of color without being fussy, you’ve found it. The Anthurium scherzerianum is vibrant and easy to grow, making it a perfect choice for both beginners and seasoned plant lovers. Often called the Flamingo Flower, its glossy, heart-shaped leaves and uniquely curly, bright red spathes can brighten any room for months.

This particular anthurium species stands out for its compact growth and charming, twisted spadix. Unlike its larger cousin, the Anthurium andreanum, the scherzerianum is more forgiving and adapts well to typical home conditions. It’s a plant that rewards even minimal care with spectacular, waxy blooms that seem to last forever.

Why Choose This Anthurium?

There are so many reasons to bring one of these plants home. First, its flowering period is exceptionally long, often lasting several weeks per bloom. Second, it’s a natural air purifier, helping to clean the air in your home. Finally, its manageable size means it fits perfectly on desks, shelves, or as a table centerpiece without taking over.

Long-Lasting Color: Each vibrant spathe can remain colorful for up to eight weeks.
Low Maintenance: It doesn’t demand constant attention or perfect conditions.
Pet-Friendly Caution: While not severely toxic, it can irritate mouths and tummies if chewed by pets, so placement matters.

Perfect Light and Location

Getting the light right is the key to keeping your plant vibrant and encouraging those famous blooms. Anthurium scherzerianum thrives in bright, indirect light. Think of the light in a room with a north or east-facing window, or a few feet back from a south or west window.

Avoid direct afternoon sun, which can scorch its beautiful leaves. If you notice the leaves turning pale or yellow, it might be getting to much light. On the other hand, if it stops flowering and the leaves become dark green and leggy, it’s likely craving more brightness.

Signs of Light Stress

Brown, crispy patches on leaves: Too much direct sun.
No flowers, stretched growth: Not enough light.
Leaves losing glossy sheen: Often a light or humidity issue.

Watering and Humidity: Getting it Just Right

Overwatering is the most common mistake with anthuriums. They like their roots to be moist but never soggy. A good rule is to water thoroughly when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Then, let any excess water drain away completely—never let the pot sit in a saucer of water.

As tropical plants, they appreciate humidity. Average home humidity is often acceptable, but they’ll be happiest with a bit extra. You can group plants together, place the pot on a tray of pebbles with water, or use a room humidifier. Misting the leaves occasionally helps, but good air circulation is crucial to prevent fungal issues.

Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture with your finger.
Water thoroughly until it runs from the drainage holes.
Empty the cache pot or saucer after 15 minutes.
Reduce watering frequency in the cooler, darker winter months.

The Best Soil and Potting Mix

Your Anthurium scherzerianum needs a chunky, airy potting mix that mimics its natural epiphytic roots. A standard houseplant soil is too dense and will hold to much water. You can easily make a perfect mix at home.

A simple recipe is to combine equal parts of regular potting soil, orchid bark, and perlite. This blend ensures excellent drainage and aeration around the roots, preventing rot. Repotting is only needed every 2-3 years, or when you see roots circling the pot or growing from the drainage holes.

Feeding for Fantastic Flowers

To support those vibrant blooms, your plant will benefit from regular feeding during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply it about once a month. In fall and winter, you can stop fertilizing altogether as the plant’s growth slows down.

Be careful not to over-fertilize, as salt buildup can damage the roots. If you see a white crust on the soil surface or leaf tips turning brown, flush the soil with plain water to leach out excess salts.

Simple Propagation Steps

Want to make more plants? Propagating Anthurium scherzerianum is straightforward through division. The best time to do this is when you’re repotting in the spring.

Gently remove the plant from its pot and shake off excess soil.
Look for natural divisions—clumps of stems with their own roots.
Using your hands or a clean knife, carefully separate a division.
Pot each new section in its own container with fresh, well-draining mix.
Water lightly and provide warm, humid conditions while they establish.

Common Issues and Easy Solutions

Even easy-going plants can have occasional problems. Here’s how to troubleshoot common issues.

Brown Leaf Tips: Usually caused by low humidity, underwatering, or fluoride in tap water. Try using filtered or rainwater.
Yellowing Leaves: Often a sign of overwatering. Check your soil and watering schedule.
No Flowers: Insufficient light is the most likely culprit. Move it to a brighter spot (without direct sun).
Pests: Watch for aphids, mealybugs, or spider mites. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth or use insecticidal soap.

FAQ About Growing Anthurium Scherzerianum

How often does the flamingo flower bloom?
With good care, it can bloom intermittently throughout the year, often with several flowers at a time. Its peak is typically spring and summer.

Is it safe for cats and dogs?
It contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause oral irritation. It’s best to keep it out of reach of curious pets.

Why are the leaves on my plant turning brown?
Brown leaves can result from several factors: too much direct sun, low humidity, or a buildup of minerals from tap water. Assess its environment and adjust care.

Can I grow it in a bathroom?
Yes! Bathrooms often provide the perfect humid environment, as long as there is enough natural light from a window.

What’s the difference between Anthurium scherzerianum and andreanum?
The scherzerianum is generally smaller, with a curly orange spadix and a more matte spathe. The andreanum has a straight spadix, a glossier, heart-shaped spathe, and is often larger.

With its cheerful, long-lasting flowers and simple needs, the Anthurium scherzerianum truly lives up to its reputation. By providing the right light, careful watering, and a cozy humid spot, you’ll enjoy its vibrant display for years to come. It’s a plant that proves you don’t need a green thumb to enjoy a spectacular touch of the tropics indoors.