About

A fast-growing, climbing, evergreen shrub to around 2m in height, with glossy green lobed foliage on hairy leaf stems, which look like they are covered in fluffy, green moss. Makes a perfect houseplant to inject some textured greenery and a tropical feel into your home, and a great air purifying plant too.

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, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2

Plant details

Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants
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

CultivationGrow in standard houseplant compost in bright, filtered or indirect light. Mist daily. During the growing season, water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly; water moderately at other times. 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 and glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects and glasshouse red spider mite