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How to Grow Tropical Humidity-Loving Plants (Anthurium & Philodendron)

Tropical Humidity-Loving Plants (Anthurium & Philodendron)

Anthurium andraeanum / Philodendron spp.

flower

Anthurium and Philodendron are tropical foliage and flowering plants that thrive in warm, humid conditions. Both are popular houseplants known for their vibrant, glossy leaves and unique flowers (in Anthurium's case). They prefer indirect light and consistent moisture, making them ideal for indoor cultivation in controlled environments.

Looking for a specific variety?

Anthurium andraeanum Philodendron hederaceum Philodendron pinnatum Anthurium clarinervium Philodendron gloriosum Anthurium warocqueanum

When should you plant Tropical Humidity-Loving Plants (Anthurium & Philodendron) in your zone?

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Example Tropical Humidity-Loving Plants (Anthurium & Philodendron) timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

  1. Plant Tropical Humidity-Loving Plants (Anthurium & Philodendron)

    Around Apr 17

    Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.

  2. Tend & protect

    Late spring–summer

    Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.

  3. First Tropical Humidity-Loving Plants (Anthurium & Philodendron) blooms

    Mid-to-late summer

    Before the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Tropical Humidity-Loving Plants (Anthurium & Philodendron) dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

☀️
Sun: Bright, indirect light; 12,000-15,000 lux preferred. Avoid direct sunlight which causes leaf burn
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Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. High humidity of 60-80% is critical; mist regularly or use humidity trays
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Spacing: 12-24 inches depending on mature size inches
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Days to maturity: Variable; flowering begins at 1-2 years for Anthurium
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Planting depth: Plant at same depth as in original container; do not bury stems

Soil

Type: Well-draining potting mix with orchid bark, peat moss, and perlite
pH: 6.0-6.5
Amendments:
Orchid bark Perlite Coconut coir Sphagnum moss Activated charcoal for drainage

Growing Zones

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Zones 10b-12 outdoors; best grown indoors in zones 2-10 with climate control

10b 11a 11b 12a 12b

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Growth Stages

1

Establishment

2-4 weeks

New transplant with initial root adjustment. Plant shows minimal new growth while acclimating

Maintain consistent humidity and temperature (65-80°F). Avoid fertilizing for 4-6 weeks. Monitor for root rot

2

Vegetative Growth

Ongoing

Plant develops new leaves and stems. Foliage expands and nodes become more visible along stems

Increase fertilizing frequency to monthly with balanced, diluted fertilizer. Provide bright indirect light. Support climbing Philodendrons with moss poles

3

Pre-Flowering

Variable, typically 6-12 months

Plant reaches maturity and develops flower buds (Anthurium). Leaf size may increase as plant prepares for blooming

Maintain optimal humidity (70-80%). Increase phosphorus-rich fertilizer to promote flowering. Ensure 12+ hours of bright light daily

4

Flowering

6-12 weeks per flower; Anthurium blooms year-round with proper care

Anthurium displays iconic waxy, heart-shaped spathes in red, pink, or white. Philodendron flowering is rare indoors

Maintain high humidity. Continue watering and fertilizing. Avoid moving plant to prevent bud drop. Remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms

5

Maintenance & Propagation

Years of productive growth

Mature plant in steady production. New growth and occasional flowering continue with routine care

Repot every 18-24 months in spring. Prune aerial roots and leggy stems to encourage bushier growth. Propagate via stem cuttings in water or moss poles

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Other tropical houseplants (Monstera, Calathea, Pothos) Ferns (Boston Fern, Maidenhair Fern) African Violets Begonias Bromeliads

Avoid planting near:

Cacti and succulents (conflicting water needs) Mediterranean herbs (rosemary, sage) Dry-loving houseplants

Common Pests

  • Increase humidity to 70%+, spray leaves with water, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 7-10 days

  • Remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs, apply horticultural oil, isolate affected plant

  • Increase humidity, spray with insecticidal soap, use yellow sticky traps for monitoring

  • Remove manually with soft brush, apply neem oil weekly for 3-4 weeks

  • Improve drainage, reduce watering frequency, repot in fresh soil, remove affected roots, ensure air circulation

Uses

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Air Purification & Interior Decoration

Household

Both Anthurium and Philodendron are NASA-recognized air-purifying plants that remove formaldehyde, xylene, and ammonia from indoor air while adding tropical elegance to home and office spaces. [source]

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Traditional Cultural Uses

Culinary

In some tropical cultures, certain Philodendron species have been used in traditional medicine and food preparation, though most modern cultivated varieties are ornamental only. [source]

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Cut Flower Arrangements & Tropical Design

Craft

Anthurium flowers are premium cut flowers prized by florists for their longevity and exotic appearance. Both plants provide striking foliage for tropical and modern floral designs. [source]

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Habitat Creation for Tropical Insects

Wildlife

In warm climates, these plants attract pollinators and beneficial insects indoors and outdoors. High humidity and dense foliage provide microhabitats for beneficial arthropods. [source]

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Phytochemical Research & Traditional Medicine

Medicinal

Anthurium and Philodendron contain compounds studied for antimicrobial and antioxidant properties in ethnobotanical research, though clinical evidence remains limited. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Not applicable for foliage plants. For Anthurium, cut flower spathes with 3-4 inches of stem when fully developed for fresh arrangements (lasting 2-6 weeks). Harvest pups/offsets for propagation when they develop 2-3 aerial rootlets. Propagate via stem cuttings in water or sphagnum moss; cuttings root in 3-4 weeks

Fun Facts

  • 🌱 Anthurium is one of the longest-blooming houseplants—a single flower can last 2-3 months, and well-cared-for plants can produce flowers year-round
  • 🌱 Philodendron's name means 'tree-lover' in Greek, referring to its climbing nature in tropical rainforests where it often grows as an epiphyte on tree trunks
  • 🌱 Both plants can develop large 'fenestrated' leaves (with natural holes) in specific varieties as they mature, mimicking an adaptation that may help them withstand storms and improve light penetration in dense tropical canopies

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

pH Transplant
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