Philodendron
Philodendron spp.
A diverse genus of tropical aroids (Araceae) with climbing and non-climbing species, popular as easy indoor houseplants with heart-shaped to lobed leaves.
Caution: Toxic to Pets
Toxicity: toxic
Contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; chewing causes oral irritation, swelling, drooling and vomiting in pets and humans. Keep out of reach.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Place philodendrons in bright, indirect light near an east or north-facing window or a few feet back from a west or south window. Use a sheer curtain to diffuse harsh sun. They tolerate lower light but will grow more slowly and may become leggy; rotate periodically for even growth.
Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm (about 1 inch) of soil is dry. Saturate until excess drains, then discard drain water. Do not keep the pot constantly soggy; soggy soil causes root rot. Reduce watering frequency in cooler months and increase during active spring/summer growth.
Humidity
Prefers medium to high humidity (about 40–60%+). Improve humidity with a humidifier, pebble tray, grouping with other plants, or light misting. Avoid placing directly above radiators or near cold drafts.
Temperature
Best between 16–29°C (60–85°F). Avoid prolonged exposure below 10–12°C (50–54°F) and protect from cold drafts and sudden temperature drops.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Yellowing lower leaves
Cause: Overwatering, poor drainage, or natural leaf senescence
Solution: Check roots for rot, improve drainage, reduce watering frequency, trim yellow leaves. Repot if soil is compacted or roots are mushy.
Brown, crispy leaf edges
Cause: Low humidity, underwatering, or salt buildup from fertilizers
Solution: Increase humidity, water more consistently, flush soil periodically to remove salts and reduce fertilizer concentration.
Leggy, sparse growth
Cause: Insufficient light
Solution: Move to brighter, indirect light, prune back long stems to encourage bushier growth, and rotate plant for even light exposure.
Wilting, mushy stems or leaves
Cause: Root rot from prolonged waterlogged soil or poor airflow
Solution: Remove from pot, trim rotten roots, repot in fresh, well-draining mix, reduce watering and ensure good drainage.
Sticky residue or webbing on leaves
Cause: Pests such as mealybugs, scale, aphids, or spider mites
Solution: Isolate plant, wipe leaves with soapy water or alcohol swabs, use insecticidal soap or neem oil and repeat treatments until pests are gone.
✂️How to Propagate Philodendron
Stem cuttings: cut a 10–15 cm stem with at least one node and a couple of leaves. Remove lower leaves and place the node in water or a moist, well-draining mix; change water weekly and transplant when roots are 2–4 cm. Air-layering: wound a stem just below a node, apply rooting hormone, wrap moist sphagnum around the wound and cover with plastic until roots form, then cut and pot. Division: remove plant from pot, gently separate root clumps ensuring each section has stems and roots, then pot into fresh soil.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Araceae
Native to: Tropical Central and South America and the Caribbean.
Natural Habitat: Epiphytic or hemiepiphytic in tropical rainforests, climbing trunks and trailing through shaded understory where humidity is high, light is filtered, and substrates are loose and organic-rich.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
Reduce watering and hold back fertilizer; plants grow slowly in cooler, shorter days. Maintain humidity and avoid cold drafts and heaters.
Spring
Resume regular watering and begin light feeding. Inspect for pests, repot if rootbound, and increase humidity and light exposure as needed.
Summer
Increase watering during active growth but allow topsoil to dry between waterings. Provide bright, indirect light and maintain higher humidity to encourage vigorous growth.
Fall
Gradually reduce fertilizer and slow watering as growth tapers. Prune leggy stems, check for pests, and prepare for lower light and cooler temperatures.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my philodendron?
Water when the top 2–3 cm (1 inch) of soil is dry — typically every 7–14 days depending on light, pot size, and season.
Does philodendron need direct sunlight?
No. It prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid hot midday sun which can scorch leaves; low light slows growth but is tolerated.
Is philodendron toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes. Contains calcium oxalate crystals that cause irritation, drooling, and vomiting if chewed or ingested.
What's the best soil for philodendron?
Use a well-draining, airy potting mix with peat or coco coir plus perlite or orchid bark to retain moisture while allowing airflow.
How do I propagate a philodendron?
Propagate easily by stem cuttings with at least one node, rooting in water or moist mix; air-layering and division also work well.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025