Anthuriums, or Flamingo Flowers, are tropical plants with glossy, heart-shaped, long-lasting “flowers” that are actually modified leaves called spathes. Native to the Americas, they thrive in bright, indirect light (not direct sun), symbolize hospitality, and act as natural air purifiers.
Here are some fun facts about Anthuriums:
- Not a Flower: The colorful heart-shaped part is a spathe (bract), while the tiny, real flowers grow on the spike in the center, known as the spadix.
- Long-Lasting: The blooms can last up to 8 weeks or more.
- The “Tail Flower”: The name is derived from the Greek words anthos (flower) and oura (tail), referring to the spadix.
- Symbolism: They symbolize hospitality, happiness, and abundance.
- Variety: There are over 600 species.
- Air Purifiers: They remove toxins like ammonia and formaldehyde from the air.