Can Anthuriums Grow In Water?

Short Answer

Yes — anthuriums can grow in water, and they look stunning doing it. With the right setup, these tropical beauties (also called flamingo flowers or laceleaf) will happily push out glossy leaves and colorful spathes while their roots shimmer in a glass vase. The key is oxygen, clean water, and keeping the crown of the plant out of the waterline. If you’ve ever rooted cuttings in a jar, you already understand the basics.

Why Anthuriums Can Live In Water

Anthuriums are epiphytes in nature, which means they’re used to growing on trees with their roots exposed to air, humidity, and periodic moisture. That airy preference is why they thrive in chunky potting mixes — and it’s also why they can adapt to water culture if you give them oxygen-rich conditions and gentle nutrition.

• They tolerate exposed roots and high humidity
• They readily grow new water roots after cleaning off soil
• They bloom well in bright, indirect light even in a vase

From my own collection: my pink Anthurium andreanum has lived in a tall, clear vase on my kitchen counter for over a year. It blooms every few months as long as I refresh the water weekly and feed lightly.

Best Methods: Vase Culture vs. Semi-Hydro

Vase Culture (Pure Water)

This is the classic “anthurium in water” look — roots visible in a glass vessel with clean water.

• Best for: Display, easy routine, cuttings, and smaller plants
• Pros: Beautiful, simple, easy to monitor roots
• Cons: Needs frequent water changes; roots can rot if the crown is submerged; algae can build up in bright light

Semi-Hydro (LECA or Inert Media + Water Reservoir)

Roots sit in lightweight clay balls (LECA) or another inert medium with a small water reservoir below. This increases oxygen at the root zone.

• Best for: Long-term stability, larger plants
• Pros: More oxygen, less chance of rot, steadier moisture
• Cons: Slightly more setup; must learn your reservoir line and feeding routine

Step-by-Step: Move Your Anthurium From Soil To Water

What You’ll Need

• A healthy anthurium (avoid stressed or freshly repotted plants)
• A tall glass vase or jar with a narrow neck (stabilizes the plant)
• Filtered or dechlorinated water (room temperature)
• Optional: aquarium air stone for extra oxygen, activated charcoal, LECA, or glass pebbles for support

The Process

• Gently remove the plant from its pot and loosen the roots.
• Rinse off all soil under lukewarm water. Be thorough — leftover soil invites rot.
• Trim away any mushy or black roots with clean scissors.
• Optional rinse: a quick dip in a mild 3% hydrogen peroxide solution (about 1 part H2O2 to 4 parts water) for 2–3 minutes helps sanitize.
• Place the plant so the roots are submerged but the crown and base of the stem remain above water.
• Add a few pebbles or LECA to keep it upright. I like a narrow vase that naturally holds the stems.
• Set it in bright, indirect light and let it settle for 2–3 weeks before feeding.

Water Quality And Feeding

• Use filtered, rain, or distilled water if your tap is hard. Aim for a gentle pH around 5.8–6.5.
• Change the water weekly (twice weekly in hot weather). Rinse the vase each time.
• Add a pinch of activated charcoal to the vase to keep water fresh and reduce odor.
• After 3–4 weeks, begin feeding with a liquid hydroponic fertilizer at 1/8 to 1/4 strength. Feed every other water change during active growth.
• Flush with plain water monthly to prevent mineral buildup.

Light, Temperature, And Humidity

• Light: Bright, indirect light is perfect. Morning sun is fine; avoid strong midday rays that heat the water and cook roots.
• Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C). Keep roots away from cold drafts or hot appliances.
• Humidity: 50–70%. A nearby humidifier or grouping plants together helps.

Care Routine Checklist

• Keep the crown above the waterline
• Refresh water weekly and clean the vase
• Feed lightly, start low and watch the plant
• Wipe off algae from glass as needed
• Rotate the vase occasionally for even growth

Troubleshooting And FAQs

Why are the leaves yellowing?

Often it’s low light, old leaves aging out, or overfeeding. Reduce fertilizer, improve light, and ensure regular water changes.

Why are the roots turning brown and mushy?

That’s rot. Trim mushy roots, sanitize the vase, refresh with clean water, and keep the crown high and dry. Consider an air stone for oxygen or switch to semi-hydro with LECA.

Why no blooms?

Most anthuriums bloom in bright, indirect light with steady nutrition and warmth. Feed lightly, ensure enough light, and avoid dramatic temperature swings. Some varieties bloom seasonally; patience pays off.

How long can anthuriums live in water?

Indefinitely with good care. I’ve kept plants in water for 12–24 months continuously. If growth slows or roots sulk, shifting to semi-hydro often perks them back up.

Is algae a problem?

A little is cosmetic. Use an opaque or tinted vase, keep fertilizer mild, and clean during water changes.

Can I start with a cutting?

Yes. Take a stem cutting with at least one node and aerial root, remove lower leaves, and root it in water. Transition to semi-hydro or keep as a vase plant once roots are 2–4 inches long.

Is it safe for pets?

Anthuriums are toxic if chewed (calcium oxalate). Keep out of reach of pets and children, and avoid placing low on the floor.

When To Go Back To Potting Mix

If your home runs very cool, very bright, or you’re struggling with rot, your plant may prefer a chunky potting mix. A blend of orchid bark, perlite, and a bit of peat or coco with some charcoal is ideal. Transition by letting water roots adapt: pot gently and keep humidity high for the first few weeks.

My Honest Take After Years Of Growing

Growing anthuriums in water is not just possible — it’s delightful. I love how easy it is to monitor root health, how clean the display looks, and how guests always ask, “Is that really growing in water?” My best results come from these habits:

• Weekly water refreshes without fail
• Very light, consistent feeding
• Bright, indirect light and warm temperatures
• Never letting the crown get soggy

So, can anthuriums grow in water? Absolutely. For a sculptural, low-mess, and conversation-starting houseplant, a water-grown anthurium is hard to beat. Start with a healthy plant, keep the routine simple and consistent, and you’ll enjoy glossy leaves and vibrant spathes dancing above those elegant, pearl-white roots for months on end.