Benefits of an Anthurium Plant in Your Home
Discover how the anthurium offers more than decorative value, contributing to a healthier indoor environment and a greater sense of well-being in your space.
Anthuriums, with their glossy leaves and colorful spathes, are a popular choice for indoor spaces. Often called the flamingo flower or laceleaf, the plant offers benefits that extend from air quality improvement to symbolic meaning. These advantages can enhance a home’s environment and the well-being of its inhabitants.
Environmental Benefits
The anthurium improves a home’s environment through air purification. Research from NASA’s Clean Air Study identified the anthurium as effective at removing toxins like ammonia, formaldehyde, toluene, and xylene. These volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are often released by household items like cleaning products, furniture, and paints.
The plant also helps regulate humidity through transpiration. During this process, water is absorbed through its roots and then released as vapor from its leaves, which is beneficial in drier indoor climates.
Aesthetic and Decorative Value
The anthurium is prized for its brightly colored, heart-shaped spathes, which are often mistaken for flowers. These spathes are modified leaves surrounding a spike called a spadix, where the true flowers grow. They come in a vibrant palette of colors, including deep reds, soft pinks, and pure whites.
A primary advantage is the longevity of the colorful spathes, which can last for several months with proper care. This makes the anthurium a sustainable alternative to cut flower arrangements. Its glossy, dark green leaves provide a lush backdrop that remains attractive year-round.
Psychological and Symbolic Benefits
The presence of houseplants like anthuriums is linked to psychological well-being. Interacting with indoor plants can help reduce stress, improve mood, and create a more positive atmosphere. This connection to nature, known as biophilia, suggests that living plants can enhance focus and creativity.
The anthurium also carries specific cultural symbolism as a symbol of hospitality, happiness, and abundance. In Feng Shui, the anthurium is believed to attract positive energy, or chi, due to its open, heart-like shape.
Important Safety Information
Homeowners should be aware of the anthurium’s toxicity. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which are harmful if ingested by pets or humans. Symptoms of ingestion may include oral pain, swelling of the tongue and lips, excessive drooling, and vomiting.
To ensure safety, place the anthurium out of reach of children and pets. Locating it on a high shelf, in a hanging basket, or in a room that pets cannot access are effective strategies.