Anthurium Scherzerianum White – Rare

Anthurium Scherzerianum White, also known as the Flamingo Lily or Pigtail Plant, is a popular houseplant prized for its unique, waxy, and long-lasting flowers.

Here is a guide to caring for the Anthurium Scherzerianum White variety:

Light

• Bright, indirect light is best. This plant thrives with at least six hours of bright, filtered sunlight daily.
• Avoid direct sun. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause brown edges.
• Too little light will result in poor growth and fewer blooms. Place it near a south- or west-facing window, but use a sheer curtain to filter the light, or place it a few feet back from the window.

Watering

• Water thoroughly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. The top inch or two of soil should feel dry before you water again.
• Do not let the plant sit in water. Anthuriums are susceptible to root rot, so ensure the pot has drainage holes and empty any excess water from the saucer.
• Use filtered or rainwater. Anthuriums are sensitive to the lime and salts found in hard tap water. Letting tap water sit out for a day can also help.

Humidity & Temperature

• High humidity is crucial. Anthuriums are native to tropical rainforests and prefer humidity levels of 50% or higher.
• Increase humidity by using a humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, or grouping it with other plants. Misting the leaves with non-calcareous water can also help, but be careful not to overdo it, as this can lead to fungal issues.
• Ideal temperature range is between 65°F and 85°F (18°C-30°C). Temperatures below 60°F (15°C) can damage the plant.

Soil & Potting

• Use a coarse, well-draining, and acidic potting mix. A good mix mimics their epiphytic (tree-dwelling) nature in the wild.
• Recommended soil mix: A blend of orchid potting media (bark, perlite) and a houseplant potting mix is a great option. You can also create a mix using a combination of peat moss or coco coir, perlite, and a bit of compost.
• Repotting: Repot every two to three years in the spring, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a new pot that is only one size larger than the old one.

Fertilizing

• Feed during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced liquid fertilizer or one high in phosphorus to encourage blooming.
• Dilute the fertilizer to one-quarter or one-third of the recommended strength to avoid burning the roots.
• Do not fertilize in the fall and winter, as this is the plant’s resting phase.

Other Care Tips

• Pruning: Remove old, yellow, or dead leaves and spent flowers by pinching or cutting them at the base to encourage new growth and blooms.
• Pests: Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests such as aphids, spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs.
• Toxicity: Anthurium plants are toxic to humans and pets if ingested, so keep them out of reach of children and animals.
• Cleaning: Gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust, which can interfere with photosynthesis.