Pigtail anthurium care guide
Anthurium scherzerianum
Quick answer
Water your pigtail anthurium when the top 3 cm (1.2 in) of soil feel dry. In summer that’s typically every 6 to 8 days.
Not sure it’s this plant?Check yours with a photo, freeAt a glance
- Light
- Bright, indirect light
- Typical interval
- Every 6 to 8 days · summer
Every 11 to 17 days · winter - Climate
- 18–28 °C (64–82 °F)
- Humidity
- 60–80%
- Pet safety
- Toxic to cats and dogs
When and how to water
3 cm (1.2 in)
- Summer · Jun–AugEvery 6 to 8 days
- Winter · Dec–FebEvery 11 to 17 days
Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Light and placement
Bright, indirect light
Pigtail anthurium thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it 1–2 meters back from an east or west window, or behind a sheer curtain on a south window.
Feeding
Feed your pigtail anthurium every 14 days while it’s actively growing. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp. Feeding dry roots can scorch them.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Climate18–28 °C (64–82 °F)
Humidity60–80%
During leafy growth, aim for 18–28 °C (64–82 °F). For routine indoor care, keep it above about 15 °C (59 °F) and avoid cold drafts. This is a care guideline, not an exact damage threshold. Cooler overwintering depends on the species and its rest conditions.
It does best at 60–80% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Toxic to pets?
Yes. Keep it out of reach.
Wear gloves when you cut or repot it. Keep the sap away from your eyes and skin, and wash your hands afterwards.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
Full pigtail anthurium toxicity guide →
Pet-safe alternatives with similar light
Common questions
How often should I water a pigtail anthurium?
Water your pigtail anthurium (Anthurium scherzerianum) when the top 3 cm (1.2 in) of soil feel dry. In summer, that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 11 to 17 days.
Sources4 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineTaxonomy · accepted name · species profile · cultivation context
- North Carolina State University Extension Gardener Plant ToolboxIndirect light · moisture · humidity · temperature · feeding · repotting · pests · root rot · toxicity
- Royal Horticultural SocietyPosition · compost recipe · water · orchid feed · humidity · temperature · pests and diseases
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlCommon name · rendered scientific name · insoluble calcium oxalates · clinical signs for dogs and cats
Last reviewed:
