Anthurium ‘Zizou’ earns its keep with waxy red ‘flowers’ that keep coming for most of the year and deep-green leaves that look good in between. Get its light and watering right and it’ll reward you with colour again and again.
About Anthurium ‘Zizou’
The anthurium, or flamingo flower, is native to the warm, humid forests of Central and South America, where it grows in dappled shade. ‘Zizou’ is a neat, red-flowered variety of Anthurium andraeanum that stays compact enough for a shelf or side table. What looks like a flower is really a glossy modified leaf (the spathe), with the true flowers on the pale spike in the centre.
How much light does my anthurium need?
Bright, indirect light is ideal — a metre or so from a bright window, or beside a north or east-facing one. Too little light and it stops flowering; direct sun scorches the leaves. If the blooms have dried up, more indirect light is usually all it needs.
How often should I water my anthurium?
Water when the top 2–3cm of soil is dry, roughly weekly in summer and less in winter. Soak it until water runs from the base, let it drain, and empty the saucer. Anthuriums hate wet feet, so it’s safer to underwater than over.
What's the best temperature for my anthurium?
Warm, steady room temperature between 18 and 24°C is perfect. Keep it clear of cold draughts, radiators and anything below about 15°C, which can make it drop its flowers.
Does my anthurium need any extra love?
It’s a tropical plant, so it appreciates humidity — mist it, group it with other plants or use a pebble tray, and a bright bathroom suits it well. Feed monthly from spring to late summer, wipe the leaves occasionally, and remove faded blooms to encourage new ones.
Is my anthurium toxic to pets?
Yes, mildly. The leaves and stems contain calcium oxalate crystals that can irritate the mouth and stomach if eaten. It’s unpleasant rather than dangerous, but best kept out of reach of pets and children.
When should I repot my anthurium?
Repot every two years or so, or when roots appear through the drainage holes, moving up one pot size in spring. A light, free-draining mix — peat-free houseplant compost with a little bark or perlite — keeps it thriving.
