In Greek, the name Anthurium means “tail flower,” and refers to the long tail-like projection of the flower. The plant is native to Central and South America, where it is grown as a perennial evergreen plant. In our area, Anthurium are considered houseplants.
There are over 600 species of Anthurium, many of which are grown in tropical climates or warm greenhouses; only a few are suitable for growing indoors.
A member of the Arum family, which also includes Peace Lilies, Philodendron, Dieffenbachia and Chinese Evergreen, these houseplants serve us well as indoor air cleaners, especially during the winter months when windows remain closed for long periods of time.
They are grown both for their attractive, glossy foliage and brightly colored flowers, which are quite elegant and beautiful. The heart-shaped flowers, frequently red, are really spathes, waxy, modified leaves that encircle a fleshy tail where the tiny real flowers are found.
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