Flamingo flower care guide

Anthurium andraeanum

Also known as: Painter's palette, Laceleaf

Pets and children

Considered toxic

Leaves, flowers, and stems contain calcium oxalate; chewing causes mouth pain, swelling, drooling, and vomiting, so keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian, or a doctor for a child, if eaten.

How often to water Flamingo flower

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Every 5 days
Water thoroughly once the topsoil dries, as a guide; the thick roots dislike sogginess, so use a fast-draining mix and wait for it to dry.
Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Every 7 days
Generally water about two days after the soil dries; cooler weather slows drying.
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Every 10 days
Water lightly about three to four days after the soil dries, and mist to raise humidity in a dry room.

Light and placement for Flamingo flower

Bright light through a sheer curtain is about right; too little light stops flowering, direct sun scorches the leaves, and it likes an airy, humid spot.

Overwintering Flamingo flower

Overwintering guide: 10°C (50°F) or above

Overwinter it indoors above about 10°C, with around 15°C keeping the flowers coming; avoid cold drafts at the window and heater blast, and water sparingly.

Fertilizing and repotting Flamingo flower

Fertilizer

Diluted liquid feed about every two weeks from May to September, with a higher-phosphorus formula helping flowering; none in winter.

When to repot

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Common problems with Flamingo flower

  • Overwatering rots the roots; the leaves yellow and flowering stops.
  • Dry air browns the leaf tips and invites spider mites.
  • In a dim spot the flowers shrink and eventually stop.

Tips for growing Flamingo flower

  • Sphagnum or a coarse mix lets the roots breathe and helps prevent rot.
  • Cut faded flowers at the base of the stalk so energy goes to the next bloom.
  • Aerial roots appearing above the soil can be covered with sphagnum or buried at repotting.

These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.

Keep your plant log going

Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.

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