
Scientifically, these hybrids are collectively referred to as Anthurium andraeanum (Hort.). They’re man-made hybrids produced through crossing different types of Anthuriums. Obviously, the Anthuriums you’ll find in your local plant store don’t technically have a natural habitat. Naturally, Anthurium flowers range from vibrant orange to lipstick red, but hybridization and selective cultivation have resulted in a range spanning from white to green to pink and everything in between. An Anthurium “flower” is actually a spadix (flower spike) enclosed in a waxy, leaf-like covering called a bract. And because the “flowers” are actually modified leaves, they provide long-lasting color on the plant. Some people might even say Anthurium flowers look plastic or almost fake-they’re that perfect.


You’ll recognize an Anthurium by its large, vaguely heart-shaped green leaves and especially its shiny, leathery flowers. Related: Make Anthurium Clarinervium Thrive: Expert Care Tips for Beginners In fact, it’s so well-known that “Anthurium” usually refers to Anthurium andraeanum specifically, even though it’s the name for the entire genus. Also known as flamingo flower, flamingo lily, laceleaf, or painter’s palette, this houseplant is popular specifically due to its lovely blooms.

In most other aroid plants (like Philodendron gloriosum, Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’, Alocasia ‘Polly’, and other Alocasia varieties), this flower is white and not much of an eye-catcher-the plants are grown primarily for their foliage.Īnthurium andraeanum is an exception. The flowers, known as spathes, consist of a long spadix (flower spike) and a leaf-like covering (called a bract). The genus Anthurium is a member of the family Araceae, the aroids, which are characterized by their flowers. If you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission. Disclosure: All products on this page are independently selected.
