Flamingo flower (Anthurium scherzerianum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Flamingo flower on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Araceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 6 days
- Light: Indirect light
- Temperature: 15–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Flamingo flower
Anthurium scherzerianum, commonly known as the Fire Tongue Anthurium or small flamingo flower, is an epiphytic plant from the Araceae family, native to Costa Rica. It is characterized by its bright red or orange waxy spathes, often with a yellow central spiral, which give it an exotic and vibrant appearance. It is ideal for adding a touch of tropical color indoors, such as on desks, shelves, or as a centerpiece.
Native range
Costa Rica and Guatemala
Care tips
It prefers bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves and spathes. Keep the substrate consistently moist but avoid waterlogging, watering when the top layer of the soil feels slightly dry to the touch. Use a well-draining and airy substrate, such as an orchid mix or one based on coir and perlite. A common mistake is insufficient ambient humidity, which can lead to brown leaf tips; mist its leaves regularly or use a humidifier.
How to save a dying Flamingo flower
- Warning signs
- Yellow/brown leaves, dry edges, soft stems, poor or no flowering. Soft, dark roots.
- First aid
- Check roots, remove rotten ones. Repot into airy, well-draining substrate. Adjust watering and humidity.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (suffocated roots), lack of humidity, intense direct sunlight.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not completely damaged. Act quickly and with patience.