About
A, evergreen perennial vine subshrub growing on the trunks of trees in seasonally dry tropical rainforests in Brazil. A rare plant in cultivation but becoming more available. These are only produced on mature plants. Flowers consist of pale green, sheath-like spathes, with a white spadix, or column. Leaves can be from 15-20cm in length. Juvenile glossy, green, leaves are lobed, becoming sharply indented almost to the mid-rib of the leaf when mature.
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
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
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Native toBrazil
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