Anthuriums are indeed a diverse and popular genus of houseplants, prized for their beautiful and long-lasting flowers and attractive foliage. There are many different Anthurium species to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and care requirements. Whether you prefer small or large leaves, bright or subtle bracts, there is an Anthurium out there that will suit your tastes and your home environment.
1. Anthurium crystallinum
Anthurium crystallinum boasts a remarkable white vein pattern on its dark green leaves. Initially, the heart-shaped leaves may exhibit a purple hue that eventually transforms into green as they mature. This anthurium’s flowers are not as attention-grabbing as its leaves. Indigenous to South America, Anthurium crystallinum commonly grows as an epiphyte, finding a perch on trees or other vegetation. Therefore, it is recommended to cultivate this plant in airy orchid soil since its aerial roots are not well-suited for conventional potting soil.
2. Anthurium warocqueanum
Anthurium warocqueanum, commonly referred to as the Queen anthurium, bears a striking resemblance to Anthurium crystallinum, sporting dark green leaves with striking white vein patterns and inconspicuous flowers. With proper maintenance, the lance-shaped leaves of the Queen anthurium can reach an impressive size of up to two meters, earning it the title “queen of anthuriums.” To thrive, Anthurium warocqueanum requires bright and humid conditions, consistent with its natural habitat.
3. Anthurium andreanum
Athurium andreanum, commonly recognized as the flamingo flower, flamingo lily, or painter’s palette, is a widely sought-after indoor plant. It features heart-shaped leaves that can span up to 40 cm in width, as well as a flower bulb that is surrounded by a vibrant bract. The hue of this bract varies according to the plant’s specific variety.
4. Anthurium scherzerianum
Anthurium scherzerianum, also known as the flamingo flower or pigtail plant, is yet another well-liked indoor plant. Its elongated leaves are relatively small, measuring approximately 30 cm. However, the pigtail plant generally compensates for its diminutive leaf size with dense flowers. Anthurium scherzerianum thrives in loose soil with an adequate water supply, and it can even survive in water alone, without the presence of soil.
It is common to find hybrids of Anthurium andreanum and Anthurium scherzerianum, including:
- Anthurium andreanum ‘Baron’: a variety with green-pink colored bracts
- Anthurium andreanum ‘Rosee Choco’: a variety with deep red bracts
- Anthurium andreanum ‘Midori’: a variety with green bracts
- Anthurium andreanum ‘Cheers’: a variety with pink bracts
- Anthurium andreanum ‘Acropolis’: a variety with white bracts.
5. Anthurium veitchii
Anthurium veitchii, also called the “king of anthuriums,” is a species with impressive foliage. Similar to Anthurium warocqueanum, the leaves of this species can grow exceptionally large. They are lanceolate in shape and feature ridges rather than the white vein patterns seen in other anthurium varieties. Anthurium veitchii is indigenous to warm and humid environments and grows epiphytically in nature, leading to a preference for highly aerated substrates like orchid soil.
6. Anthurium clarinervium
Anthurium clarinervium, commonly referred to as the heart leaf plant, bears a striking resemblance to Anthurium crystallinum. Both species feature dark green, heart-shaped leaves adorned with a striking white vein pattern. However, one can differentiate the two species by examining the color of their berries. Each produces fruit on its flowering bulb. Similar to most anthuriums, Anthurium clarinervium thrives in bright locations but not under direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
7. Anthurium magnificum
If you admire the appearance of Anthurium clarinervium and Anthurium crystallinum but desire a larger plant, Anthurium magnificum is the ideal choice. This species displays comparable foliage to its relatives but can grow significantly larger. In fact, it may require a support structure to grow upwards.
8. Anthurium forgetii
Anthurium forgetii is distinct from other anthuriums due to its small, rounded leaves that taper to a point. Unlike many of its relatives, this species is not renowned for its colored bracts. Its green leaves may be plain or patterned with white veins. Like most tropical and epiphytic anthuriums, Anthurium forgetii thrives in high humidity and prefers loose orchid soil.
9. Anthurium vittarifolium
Anthurium vittarifolium is a species of anthurium with long, green leaves that dangle from the plant like tails. This growth habit makes it a suitable plant for hanging baskets. In its natural tropical habitat, Anthurium vittarifolium is an epiphyte, meaning it grows on other plants and trees, from which its leaves can hang downward.
10. Anthurium metallicum
Anthurium metallicum is known for its lance-shaped leaves with light veins that resemble a knight’s shield. The plant can grow up to 40-50 cm tall and is hemi-epiphytic in nature, meaning it starts its life as an epiphyte and eventually touches the ground to use it as an anchor. While growing in orchid soil is beneficial for its growth, it is not strictly required.
11. Anthurium polyschistum
It’s important to note that while the leaves of Anthurium polyschistum may resemble hemp, it is not related to the cannabis plant in any way. It’s also worth mentioning that, due to the potential confusion around its common name, it may be a good idea to refer to this plant by its scientific name, Anthurium polyschistum, to avoid any misunderstandings.
12. Anthurium Luxurians
Anthurium luxurians is an unusual and attractive species of anthurium with leathery, heart-shaped leaves that have deep ridges, giving them the appearance of a diamond. These leaves are usually dark red or purple and tend to change color with age, from dark red to dark green. Anthurium luxurians grows best in partial shade and well-draining soil. A mixture of well-draining potting soil and orchid soil made from pine bark and Sphagnum moss is ideal for this plant.
13. Anthurium Hookeri
The leaves of Anthurium hookeri are glossy, dark green, and leathery in texture. They are heart-shaped with a slightly wavy margin and can grow up to 30-40 cm in length. The leaves emerge from a central rosette and are held upright on long, sturdy petioles.
14. Anthurium Dorayaki
With its glossy leaves and white venation, Anthurium Dorayaki makes for a beautiful centerpiece, adding an ornamental touch to any space.
15. Anthurium Regale
The leaves of Anthurium regale are large, heart-shaped, and can grow up to 1 meter in length. They are dark green in color and have a velvety texture, with prominent veins that create a ribbed appearance. The leaves emerge from a central rosette and are held upright on long, sturdy petioles.
