About
Philodendron mamei, the blotched philodendron, is a creeping, terrestrial philodendron from Ecuador producing heart-shaped, leathery, evergreen leaves to 45 cm across, deep green with attractive silver-grey mottling between the veins. Mature plants produce a purplish-green spathe with a cream spadix. A beautiful and ornamental houseplant or heated greenhouse plant.
About the genus
Philodendron are mostly large, tropical, evergreen perennials or climbers with very large, often deeply lobed or divided, glossy leaves. Among the most dramatic of all tropical foliage plants, grown in heated glasshouses, conservatories and as houseplants.
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
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Native toEcuador
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant/allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Harmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant/allergen - For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass, grow in well-drained, ericaceous, loam-based, peat free, potting compost, mixing in some extra perlite, choosing a position in bright but diffused light. During the growing season, April to September, 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. Water less frequently in winter, when growth slows right down, and stop feeding at this time 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