Oilcloth Flower Anthurium scherzerianum

'Flamingo Flower' is a houseplant with showy red and yellow flowers and attractive green leaves.  It is native to tropical Costa Rica.  

It prefers medium to high light, moist well-drained soil, and low to medium relative humidity. Too little light will cause the plant to bloom less and grow slowly, south or west-facing windows are best. Water when the soil is dry to the touch. High-phosphorus fertilizer will encourage more blooms, as well as pruning away old spent blooms. Wipe down the leaves of indoor plants periodically to remove dust. No serious pest problems.

It cannot perform at its best when grown in heavy soils.  Light and airy soil is required.  In addition to the soil requirement, proper watering is also crucial.  Overwatering, as well as under watering, can lead to root rot or wilt of your plant.  Checking for proper can be as simple as sticking your finger into the soil.  If the soil is moist, don't water.  If the soil contains little moisture, it's time to water.   The more light your plant receives, the more water it will require.

Being a plant that thrives on high humidity, creating a humid environment where it does not exist can benefit the plant.  Humidifiers can achieve high humidity as well as placing the plant in a plastic container with a tight seal.  The greenhouse effect will provide the humidity needed.  

Choosing a container that is not deeper than 5" will aid in preventing root rot.  Ensure that proper drainage is provided by having sufficient drainage holes and using porous containers.  It can be repotted every few years, depending on its growth.  

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Common insects include aphids, fungus gnats and spider mites.  Overwatering can lead to root rot.

Toxic for pets, particularly cats and dogs.  

Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Houseplants, Succulents, and Cacti", a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.   

More information on Anthurium.