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Anthurium

Anthurium is a large genus of flowering plants in the arum family (Araceae), native to the tropical Americas.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Anthurium is a large genus of flowering plants in the arum family (Araceae), native to the tropical Americas. It includes roughly 825 to 1,000 species, many of which are grown as ornamental houseplants and cut flowers. Common names include flamingo flower, tailflower, and laceleaf.

Description

Anthurium is a diverse genus of herbaceous flowering plants. Many species have showy spathes and spadices, which make them popular ornamental plants.

Distribution and habitat

The genus is native to tropical America and is distributed widely across Central and South America and the Caribbean. Species occur in tropical forests and other warm, humid habitats, and many are epiphytic.

Cultivation and uses

Several Anthurium species are widely grown as houseplants and florist flowers because of their striking appearance and long-lasting floral displays. They are also used in decorative indoor planting and cut-flower production.

Toxicity

Anthurium plants contain calcium oxalate crystals, which makes them poisonous if ingested. This is a common characteristic of many members of the Araceae family.

Key facts

  • Anthurium is the largest genus in the arum family, Araceae.
  • The genus is native to the Americas, from northern Mexico to northern Argentina and parts of the Caribbean.
  • Many species are cultivated for their long-lasting, brightly coloured floral structures.
  • The plants contain calcium oxalate crystals and are considered poisonous.
  • Anthurium species often grow as epiphytes on other plants.
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Canadian context

Anthurium is widely sold in Canada as an indoor ornamental plant and florist crop, especially for homes, offices, and tropical-themed floral arrangements.

Frequently asked questions

What is Anthurium?
Anthurium is a genus of flowering plants in the family Araceae, native to tropical regions of the Americas.
How many species are in Anthurium?
Sources commonly give the genus about 825 to 1,000 species, depending on the treatment used.
Why are Anthurium plants popular?
They are popular because of their colourful, long-lasting spathes and their suitability as indoor ornamental plants and cut flowers.
Are Anthurium plants poisonous?
Yes. They contain calcium oxalate crystals and are considered poisonous if eaten.
What are common names for Anthurium?
Common names include flamingo flower, tailflower, pigtail plant, and laceleaf.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthurium
    Supports: Genus size, family, native range, common names, growth habit
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/plant/Anthurium
    Supports: Approximate species count, family, native range, ornamental use, toxicity
  3. University of Florida IFAS Extension — https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP042
    Supports: Common names, plant type, flower description, cultivation and ornamental use