Anthurium ‘Big Red Bird’
 
Common Names Big Red Bird Anthurium, Red Lance Anthurium, Bird’s Nest Anthurium
 
Zones 10A–11 (outdoors); Zone 8B+ with protection
 
Anthurium ‘Big Red Bird’ is a bold, rosette-forming hybrid from the Pachyneurium section, known for its long, lance-shaped leaves that emerge green and mature to deep red under bright light or cooler temperatures. Native to tropical Central and South America, this cultivar offers dramatic foliage with wavy margins and a reddish central vein, making it a favorite for interiorscapes and shaded tropical gardens. Its upright, self-supporting habit resembles a bird’s nest, with new leaves unfurling inward toward the midrib.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Upright, rosette-forming; moderate growth rate
Height: 3–6 ft. tall; 2–4 ft. wide
Trunk: Herbaceous; short internodes with basal swelling
Leaves: Lanceolate; glossy green to deep red; 24–36 in. long with wavy margins
Petiole: Slender, reddish to maroon; upright and arching
Inflorescence: Rare in cultivation; pale green spathe with creamy white spadix
Fruit: Occasionally produced in mature specimens; small berries if pollinated
Ecology: Hybrid from Anthurium sect. Pachyneurium; selected for red pigmentation and leaf texture2
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Bright indirect light to part shade; red coloration intensifies with exposure
Watering: Keep substrate lightly moist; allow top inch to dry between waterings
Soil: Chunky, well-draining mix; ideal blend includes orchid bark, perlite, coco coir, and compost
Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C); protect from frost and cold drafts
Humidity: High (60–90%); misting or humidifiers recommended indoors
Propagation: By division or stem cuttings with aerial roots
Tolerance: Sensitive to low humidity and overwatering; not drought-tolerant
 
Landscape Use Ideal for tropical interiorscapes, greenhouse collections, and shaded patio containers. Pairs well with Anthurium ‘Red Crystallinum’, Philodendron ‘Rojo Congo’, and Calathea ‘Dottie’ for layered moody foliage compositions.