Philodendron hederaceum

Philodendron hederaceum, or commonly know as the heartleaf philodendron, or as Philodendron scandens, is a flowering plant species belonging to the family Araceae, and is native to Central America and the Caribbean.  Having glossy heart-shaped leaves, this highly ornamental plant is an evergreen climber and can grow up to 10-20 ft / 3-6 m.  The iconic heart-shaped leaves of this perennial can grow up to 12 in / 30cm long.  Once fully mature, the heartleaf Philodendron blooms spathes of white flowers, though this happens infrequently.  

Being native to the tropics and subtropics, the heartleaf Philodendron requires a temperature of at least 59 °F / 15°C or greater, during the wintertime.  In colder regions, this Philodendron requires to be indoors, or grown within covering during the cooler seasons.  Depending on light and temperature, watering every 5-7 days is best to keep optimal soil moisture, without letting the soil become soggy, to avoid root rot.  Being a relatively easy plant to care for, this plant should only be lightly fertilized every month, as well as having a reduction of waterings during the winter.  For optimal sunlight conditions, bright, indirect light is preferred.  If you would like to have a fuller bushier plant, pinching back the stems every month is suggested. 

The heartleaf Philodendron is slightly toxic, as Parts of the plant are known to contain calcium oxalate crystals in varying concentrations.  Keep this plant away from pets, and avoid internal exposure. 

3-6 hours of sun per day, with protection from intense mid-day sun

Water moderately, allowing the top 3cm to dry out between watering.

Philodendron Hederaceum

Philodendron hederaceum

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