Exploring the Colorful World of Anthuriums
Anthuriums are known for their vibrant and diverse color range, from rich reds, oranges, and pinks to softer shades like white, purple, green, and peach. Some varieties even feature a combination of colors, with hues blending together or creating a speckled effect as if painted by nature itself. The flowers come in different shapes—some are cupped, others flat, and some even take on heart-shaped or teardrop forms. One of the most striking features of anthuriums is their impressive vase life, often lasting up to a month with proper care.

Growing Anthuriums: The Right Environment
Anthuriums thrive in well-draining soils, and the mix can vary depending on the grower’s preference. At Kalani Tropicals, we’ve had great success with using black and red cinder, which is abundant here in Hawaii. The soil is often a blend of cinder, coconut husks, tree fern fiber, bark, sawdust, charcoal, and even macadamia nut shells. This combination allows for proper drainage and healthy root development, giving the plants everything they need to flourish.

Shade-Loving Plants
Anthuriums are naturally shade-loving plants, which makes them perfect for growing in shaded areas. Many growers plant them beneath fern trees or house them in shade houses, where the plants can thrive without direct sunlight. These plants are versatile, doing just as well in pots as they do planted in the ground. For every new leaf that an anthurium produces, a beautiful flower soon follows. If cared for well, these plants can grow quite large.

The Remarkable Obake Anthurium
One particularly impressive variety is the Obake anthurium, a hybrid created right here in Hawaii. The flowers of this variety can grow up to 11 inches wide and 9 inches long, making them a stunning addition to any collection. The name “anthurium” comes from the Greek words “anthos,” meaning flower, and “oura,” meaning tail, referencing the tail-like spadix that gives the flower its unique shape.

A Glimpse of Our Anthurium Collection
At Kalani Tropicals, we’re proud to grow a wide variety of anthuriums, each with its own unique beauty. Below is a small photo sampling of some of the vibrant anthurium flowers we’re currently growing in our greenhouse. These stunning flowers bring a touch of tropical elegance to any space!