Where Do You Place Anthurium? Optimal Spot Guide

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Anthuriums, known for their vibrant and long-lasting flowers, are popular indoor plants native to Central America, northern South America, and the Caribbean. These striking beauties can add a touch of tropical charm to any room. However, finding the perfect spot for your anthurium is essential to ensure its success and longevity, as they have specific care needs that must be met.

A well-lit location with plenty of daylight is the ideal position for anthurium plants. Although they can tolerate lower light levels, avoid exposing them to direct sunlight as this can lead to leaf burn. While these tropical plants thrive in warm temperatures, it is crucial to maintain a room temperature of around 16-22°C (60-72°F) for optimum growth and flowering.

Incorporating the principles of Feng Shui, one can also use the Bagua guide to map out the most harmonious locations for anthuriums within the home. The Bagua is a nine-section grid that can be overlaid on a floor plan to help determine the most suitable placement for these stunning plants, boosting both their aesthetics and energy within your living space.

Anthurium Basics

Plant Origin and Family

Anthurium plants are native to Central America, northern South America, and the Caribbean, specifically found in areas of the Andes Mountain range in Colombia and Ecuador. They belong to the Araceae family and are well-known for their unique and colorful “flowers,” which are actually modified leaves called bracts. The true flowers of the plant grow from the center structure, known as an inflorescence.

These tropical plants thrive in warm environments with extra humidity, making them a fitting choice for indoor spaces. When positioned in a well-lit area, but not in direct sunlight, anthuriums can maintain their vibrant colors without the risk of burning or developing a yellow glow on their leaves. To avoid drafty and unfavorable conditions, it is recommended to place these plants away from hot radiators and windows.

Different Species

There are around 1,000 species of anthurium, which exhibit a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. A few popular species include:

• Anthurium andraeanum: Known for its bright, heart-shaped bracts, it is one of the most common species that’s grown as a houseplant.
• Anthurium scherzerianum: This species is characterized by its spiral-shaped inflorescence and is another popular choice for indoor cultivation.
• Anthurium crystallinum: Recognizable by its large, velvety leaves, this species makes an attractive foliage plant.
• Anthurium hookeri: With its elongated leaves and unique pattern, this species is often called the “Bird’s Nest Anthurium.”

Though these plants require similar care, it is important to research the specific needs of your chosen anthurium species to ensure its optimal growth and health. The versatility of anthurium plants makes them an ideal addition to any indoor space, and proper positioning can significantly contribute to their growth and longevity.

Ideal Placement within the Home

Light Requirements

Anthurium plants thrive in areas with bright, indirect light. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can scorch their leaves and cause them to yellow. Pay attention to the sun patterns in your chosen space, and adjust the plant’s position as needed to maintain consistent light exposure. Ensuring adequate light will help your anthurium produce long-lasting, beautiful blooms¹.

Temperature and Humidity

Anthuriums require consistent temperatures ranging from 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit². Avoid placing them near drafty windows or heating vents, as drastic temperature changes can harm the plant³. High humidity is essential for the plant’s well-being, so consider using a humidifier or placing the anthurium on a tray filled with pebbles and water⁴.

Potting and Support

When potting your anthurium, choose a container that allows the plant to grow into it, rather than one it will quickly outgrow⁵. This helps prevent excessive repotting and minimizes root disturbance. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent soggy soil, which can lead to root rot⁶. Some anthuriums may require support, such as a stake or small trellis, to help maintain their upright structure as they grow⁷.

Outdoor Anthurium Placement

Garden Considerations

When planning to grow anthuriums outdoors, it’s essential to select the right location in your garden. These beautiful tropical plants thrive in well-draining soil and should not be subjected to standing water. Ensure that the area where you plant your anthuriums has proper drainage to prevent root rot. Additionally, consider growing them in containers so they can easily be moved indoors if necessary, as temperatures below 60°F (15°C) can harm the plants ¹.

Climate

Anthuriums are primarily suited for tropical climates such as those found in Florida and Hawaii². To successfully grow these plants outdoors, you need to live in an area that falls within USDA Zone 10 or higher³. This means that ambient temperatures typically do not drop below 30°F (-1°C). If you reside in a cooler region, it’s best to grow anthuriums indoors as houseplants or in a greenhouse.

Sunlight

Proper sunlight exposure is crucial for the thriving and blooming of anthurium plants. They require bright, indirect light and should be shielded from direct sunlight, which can cause sunburn or scorch their leaves. If growing anthuriums in your garden, place them in a spot where they will receive dappled light, such as under a tree or near tall, protective plants. For container-grown outdoor anthuriums, position the pots in an area with partial shade to ensure they receive the ideal amount of light.

Design and Aesthetic Ideas

Complementary Plants

Anthuriums pair well with various other houseplants to create a stunning indoor display. Some complementary plants include ferns, spider plants, and pothos. Ferns add softness and texture to the arrangement, while spider plants bring a touch of greenery and air-purifying qualities. Pothos, with its trailing leaves, creates a lovely cascading effect.

You can also mix and match anthuriums with plants that exhibit contrasting leaf shapes and sizes. For example, pairing anthuriums with rubber plants or monsteras can create an engaging visual composition.

Creating an Indoor Garden Space

An indoor garden can bring a breath of fresh air to your living space, and incorporating anthuriums can elevate the atmosphere. To create a vibrant, tropical indoor garden, consider these ideas:

• Place your anthuriums on shelves, windowsills, or plant stands at various heights. This will create a sense of depth and visual interest.
• Group anthuriums with other tropical plants, such as bromeliads, bird of paradise, and philodendrons. This combination will help establish a lush, exotic feel.
• Experiment with various containers and pots. Using a mix of textures, materials, and colors can add visual appeal and enhance the overall aesthetic of your garden space.

Incorporating these design elements and aesthetic ideas can help transform your indoor space into a beautiful, calming retreat with the addition of anthurium plants. Remember to keep your anthurium in a spot with indirect sunlight, away from drafts or direct heat sources. This will ensure its longevity and allow this stunning plant to complement your design perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ideal location for Anthurium

Anthuriums thrive in warm spots with a bit of extra humidity, as they’re originally found in areas of the Andes Mountain range in Colombia and Ecuador. To keep your Anthurium happy, place it in a room with a temperature between 70 and 90°F (21 and 32°C), and provide a humidity level of 80% or above if possible.

Sunlight needs for Anthurium

Anthuriums need bright, indirect sunlight to grow and produce their vibrant flowers. Direct sunlight can harm the plant, so choose a location with filtered light, such as near a window with sheer curtains. Avoid exposing your Anthurium to prolonged direct sunlight, as it can cause leaves to become scorched or discolored.

Anthurium in the bathroom

Bathrooms can be an excellent location for Anthuriums as they typically have higher humidity levels due to the steam from showers and baths. Ensure that your bathroom has enough natural, indirect light for the plant to thrive. If your bathroom lacks light, you might want to supplement it with artificial lighting.

Anthurium and window placement

Place your Anthurium near a window that provides bright, indirect light. East- or West-facing windows are ideal, as they receive softer, filtered sunlight for most of the day. Make sure to keep the plant away from direct sunlight and avoid placing it near cold drafts or heat sources like radiators.

Feng shui with Anthurium

Incorporating Anthuriums into your home’s feng shui design can bring positive energy. The vibrant red or pink flowers symbolize love, happiness, and abundance. Place the Anthurium in areas where you want to encourage positive relationships, such as the living room, bedroom, or office.

Keeping Anthuriums happy

To maintain a healthy Anthurium, follow some basic care guidelines:

1. Provide bright, indirect sunlight.
2. Keep the temperature between 70 and 90°F (21 and 32°C).
3. Maintain a humidity level of 80% or above, using a humidifier if needed.
4. Water the plant once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
5. Fertilize with a one-quarter strength, phosphorus-rich fertilizer every three to four months.

By following these tips, your Anthurium will thrive and brighten your space with its beautiful, long-lasting blooms.

Daniel Elrod

My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17.  I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.