anthurium care rhs Anthurium 'Livium Red'

Anthurium ‘Livium Red’ is a vibrant, long-lasting flowering plant that makes a beautiful alternative to cut flowers. Its glossy green foliage and bold red spathes bring weeks – sometimes months – of colour, making it a thoughtful gift for Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, anniversaries or simply to brighten someone’s home. Compact and elegant, it feels special without being fussy.

Scientific Name
Anthurium andraeanum (tail flower, named after French botanist Édouard André) ‘Livium Red’

Belongs to the Araceae family (the aroid family), alongside Philodendron, Monstera and Spathiphyllum. Most ornamental Anthuriums are hybrids developed from Anthurium andraeanum and related tropical species.

Common Name
Flamingo Flower, Laceleaf

Origin
The parent species originate from tropical regions of Central and South America, where they grow in warm, humid rainforest environments, often as epiphytes or in loose forest soil.

Light
Prefers bright, indirect light to encourage regular flowering. It will tolerate moderate light, but flowering may reduce. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the leaves and fade the spathes.

Water
Allow the top third of the compost to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly and ensure excess drains away. Reduce watering slightly in winter when growth slows.

Humidity
Enjoys higher humidity. Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms or near a humidifier. In drier UK homes, especially during winter, a pebble tray can help.

Soil
Use a free-draining, airy houseplant mix with added bark and perlite to mimic its natural growing conditions.

Food
Feed every 2–4 waters during the growing season (spring to early autumn) with a balanced liquid fertiliser to support continued flowering. Reduce feeding in autumn and pause in winter.

Temperature
Thrives between 18–27°C. Avoid temperatures below 16°C and protect from cold draughts.

Pet-safe
Toxic if ingested due to calcium oxalate crystals. Keep out of reach of pets and children.

Sprouts Top Tips
Anthuriums can flower repeatedly throughout the year – give them bright light and regular feeding, and trim old blooms at the base to encourage new ones.