Anthurium andraeanum 'Essencia' - Dark Red

Glossy. Bold. Timeless elegance with a tropical twist.

Anthurium andraeanum ‘Essencia’ in deep red is a striking cultivar of the classic flamingo flower – admired for its high-gloss, heart-shaped spathes and golden-yellow spadix. Native to the humid rainforests of Colombia and Ecuador, this species thrives in the filtered light and steamy air of the tropics, where it naturally grows as an epiphyte on trees. The ‘Essencia’ variety takes the drama even further, offering richer tones, longer-lasting blooms, and compact, manageable growth ideal for modern interiors.

Care Guide
Anthurium ‘Essencia’ is low-maintenance yet deeply rewarding when given the right environment:

• Light: Bright, indirect light is best to encourage blooms and glossy foliage. Avoid strong, direct sunlight which may dull or damage the leaves.

• Watering: Water when the top 2–3cm of soil is dry. Keep soil moist but never soggy – it dislikes overwatering.

• Humidity: Prefers higher humidity (60–80%). Will tolerate average levels but thrives in steamy spots like kitchens or bathrooms.

• Temperature: Keep in a warm space – ideally 18–26°C. Protect from temperature dips or cold drafts.

• Feeding: Feed every 4–6 weeks during the growing season with a high-phosphorus fertiliser to encourage flowering.

• Soil: Use a light, free-draining mix – orchid bark, perlite, and peat-free compost provide the perfect balance.

Best Placement in the Home
Perfect for a bright bathroom, stylish kitchen shelf, or coffee table centrepiece. This Anthurium looks especially stunning in minimal interiors, paired with matte ceramics or gold-accented pots.

Rarity & Ease
While not as elusive as some velvet-leaf species, the ‘Essencia’ dark red variety is still harder to come by, especially in smaller boutique stores. It’s easy to care for, making it a brilliant choice for gifting, beginners, or collectors looking for something classic with a twist.