About
This creeping, terrestrial species found growing in tropical rainforest in Peru and Ecuador. Strong leaf stalks which arise directly from the creeping stem support heart-shaped semi-glossy evergreen leaves. The lateral veins are sunken on the upper leaf surfaces giving a quilted effect. Juvenile leaves are green with splashes of silver grey between the veins. Mature leaves are green and can be very large; over a metre across in some cases. The flowering spathe is only produced on mature plants and is purple and white, while the spadix, or column, inside the spathe is cream. These are usually produced during the warmer months. Its large, ornamental foliage makes it attractive to grow as a houseplant.
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, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1A
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Native toPeru, Ecuador
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. Allow the surface of the compost to become just dry before thoroughly watering the compost once more. Avoid plants sitting in water which can cause the roots to rot. During the growing season, April to September, apply a liquid houseplant fertiliser monthly. Water less frequently in winter, when growth slows right down, and stop feeding until the spring. Repot every 2-3 years. Plants can be trained to climb a moss pole indoors and reach 2.5m high. If allowed to creep naturally, plants are best suited to a wide shallow container rather than a deep pot. 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