Editing Anthurium (section)

== Description and biology ==
''Anthurium'' is a genus of herbs often growing as [[epiphyte]]s on other plants. Some are terrestrial. The leaves are often clustered and are variable in shape. The [[inflorescence]] bears small flowers which are [[perfect flower|perfect]], containing male and female structures. The flowers are contained in close together spirals on the [[spadix (botany)|spadix]]. The spadix is often elongated into a spike shape, but it can be globe-shaped or club-shaped. Beneath the spadix is the [[spathe]], a type of [[bract]]. This is variable in shape, as well, but it is lance-shaped in many species. It may extend out flat or in a curve. Sometimes it covers the spadix like a hood. The fruits develop from the flowers on the spadix. They are juicy [[berry (botany)|berries]] varying in color, usually containing two seeds.<ref>Croat, T. B. [http://www.aroid.org/genera/anthurium/anthintro.php ''Anthurium'' description.] aroid.org</ref>

The spadix and spathe are a main focus of ''Anthurium'' breeders, who develop [[cultivar]]s in bright colors and unique shapes. ''Anthurium scherzerianum'' and ''A. andraeanum'', two of the most common taxa in cultivation, are the only species that grow bright red spathes. They have also been bred to produce spathes in many other colors and patterns.<ref>[http://www.kew.org/plants-fungi/Anthurium-scherzerianum.htm ''Anthurium scherzerianum'' (flamingo flower).] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131023021035/http://www.kew.org/plants-fungi/Anthurium-scherzerianum.htm |date=2013-10-23 }} Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.</ref>

''Anthurium'' plants are poisonous due to [[calcium oxalate]] crystals. The sap is irritating to the skin and eyes.<ref name=nc/>