Anthurium scherzerianum
This compact flamingo flower is known for its coiled, corkscrew spadix and bright red spathes. It stands out where space is tight and light is moderate. It performs best as a warm houseplant with bright, indirect light and regular moisture. It is native to Central America, especially Costa Rica. In North America it is grown indoors except in frost-free zones. Flowering can occur through the year in steady light.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: evergreen aroid; epiphytic perennial
- Height × spread: 12 to 18 in (30 to 45 cm) × 10 to 12 in (25 to 30 cm)
- Bloom window: intermittent year-round indoors
- Color & flower form: bright red spathe; orange-red coiled spadix
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: 11 to 12; indoors elsewhere
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Awards/registration: RHS Award of Garden Merit
- Cut-flower notes: shorter stems than A. andraeanum; vase life commonly 2 to 3 weeks when properly conditioned
- Pet safety: avoid
How it differs
- Distinct spiral spadix not seen in other common anthuriums
- More compact habit suited to small containers
- Tolerates slightly lower light than many flowering anthuriums
Strengths
- Reliable bloom indoors with bright, indirect light
- Manageable size for shelves and desktops
- Good color impact from small plants
Care in one minute
- Site: bright, indirect light near an east or shaded south window.
- Soil: airy aroid mix with bark and perlite; pH 6.0 to 6.5.
- Water: keep lightly moist; let the surface dry slightly between waterings.
- Feeding: light monthly feed during active growth for better bloom.
- Grooming: remove spent spathes; wipe leaves; monitor pests.
- Overwintering: keep above 60°F (16°C) with stable humidity.
Watch‑outs
- Leaf tips brown in dry air below 40% humidity
- Mealybugs and soft scale can occur on leaves and spadices
- Fewer long stems for cutting compared with A. andraeanum
Best uses (tags)
containers; interiors; small spaces; cutting; shade-tolerant
Provenance note
Native to Costa Rica and nearby Central America. Recognized by the Royal Horticultural Society with an Award of Garden Merit for performance under glass.
References
- Royal Horticultural Society: Anthurium scherzerianum
- NC State Extension: Anthurium scherzerianum
- UC Davis Postharvest: Anthurium Cut Flowers
- ASPCA: Flamingo Flower (Anthurium) toxicity
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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