One of the most attractive flowering plants that has enjoyed consistent popularity for many years is the anthurium. A brightly colored bract from which the spadix proudly rises makes this plant so attractive. Properly cared for, it blooms almost all year round and looks like an elegant splash of color even at times when hardly any other houseplant has flowers.
What is the botanical name of anthurium?
The botanical name of the anthurium, also known as the flamingo flower, is “Anthurium” and belongs to the arum family. The genus name is made up of the Greek words “Anthos” (flower) and “Oura” (tail), which means “tail flower”.
The genus name
It is made up of two Greek words:
- Anthos for flower
- Oura for tail
results in “tail flower,” which refers to the flower spadix that protrudes attractively from the bract.
But why flamingo flower?
If you look closely at the flower of an anthurium, this name is almost self-explanatory. With a little imagination, the color and shape of the attractive ornamental plant are reminiscent of tropical birds. The bract looks like a bird's body, from which the long neck rises elegantly.
The flamingo flower, an arum plant
What all arum plants have in common is the bract, from which the flower protrudes like a rod. This family of plants owes its name to Moses' older brother, Aron. He was given the office of high priest by God. According to legend, the representatives of all twelve tribes of Israel placed a staff on the Ark of the Covenant, but only Aron's turned green, as a sign of his election.
Quick care tips
Caring for the anthurium is relatively easy. It prefers a bright and warm location, but it does not tolerate full sun well. Keep the substrate evenly moist without overwatering. The flamingo flower reacts quite sensitively to waterlogging and root rot is often the result. Since the anthurium is slightly poisonous, you should wear gloves when working on the plant.
Tip
The anthurium is also very popular as a cut flower. It radiates exoticism, self-confidence and, thanks to its bright coloring, glamorous elegance. This makes it a piece of jewelry that also attracts attention in the vase.
