About
This vining species found growing in the rainforests of Colombia, using its aerial roots to cling to and climb the trees into their canopies. The glossy, green leaves are deeply indented resembling palm fronds on mature plants, but are more broadly lobed on juvenile plants. They can grow to 60cm long and 30cm wide. Plants can reach over 2m high in cultivation if given the support of a moss pole on which to climb. Plants adapt well to indoor conditions making them useful houseplants. Mature plants only, can produce flowers consisting of a green, sheath-like spathe, surrounding a white spadix or column.
About the genus
Philodendron can be shrubs, trees or climbers, with glossy, leathery, evergreen, simple to pinnately divided leaves, and tiny flowers borne within arum-like white, green or reddish spathes
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1A
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitClimbing
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Native toColombia
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant/allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling 47836,philodendron-melanochrysum,Philodendron melanochrysum,black-gold philodendron,A fairly slow-growing
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass, grow in an open, ericaceous, well-drained, but moisture-retentive mix, which can include, lava rock or pumice, fine fir bark and leafmould or chopped sphagnum moss, choosing a position in bright but diffused light. During the growing season, allow the surface of the compost to become just dry before thoroughly watering the compost. Avoid plants sitting in water which can cause the roots to rot. Apply a liquid houseplant fertiliser monthly during April to September. Water less frequently in winter, when growth slows right down, and stop feeding until the spring. Repot every 2-3 years. See Philodendron and houseplant cultivation for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by stem-tip or leaf bud cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects, glasshouse red spider mite and mealy bugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free