
Philodendron polypodioides, also known as Philodendron pedatum, is a vining aroid in the plant family Araceae. It is native to the tropical forests of South America.
👀 Overview
Philodendron polypodioides is an attractive tropical plant admired for its elongated he leaves. Its vines can grow quite long in ideal conditions. This easy-to-grow philodendron makes a beautiful hanging basket or climbing plant for indoor spaces.
📖 Common name | Philodendron polypodioides, Thicket Philodendron |
🔬 Botanical name | Philodendron polypodioides |
🫴 Care Difficulty level | Moderate |
☠️ Toxicity | Toxic to pets and humans (contains calcium oxalate crystals) |
💨 Air-purifying Qualities | Moderate |
🌱 Soil Type and pH | Well-draining potting mix; slightly acidic to neutral |
☀️ Sun Exposure | Bright, indirect light |
🍪 Edibility | Not edible |
🌴 Plant type | Tropical Perennial |
🍃 Foliage Type | Evergreen |
🌿 Color of leaves | Bright green |
🌸 Flower color | Non-prominent in indoor cultivation |
💥 Bloom time | N/A |
🚀 Growth Speed | Moderate |
📏 Mature Size | Varies based on conditions, typically up to 2-3 feet indoors |
🔄 Life Cycle | Perennial |
🌍 Hardiness zones | 10-11 (mostly grown indoors) |
🗺️ Native area | Central and South America |
💚 Philodendron polypodioides Care
Caring for philodendron polypodioides requires bright indirect light, warm temperatures, high humidity, and moist well-draining soil. With the proper care, this tropical climber will thrive indoors for many years.
☀️ Light ☀️
Philodendron polypodioides thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. This means it prefers a spot near a window where sunlight comes in but is filtered through sheer curtains.
Direct sunlight should be avoided, as the intense rays will burn the leaves. However, early morning sunlight for 2-3 hours is fine.
This plant grows best with 12-16 hours of bright, indirect light per day. Insufficient light will result in slower growth, smaller leaves, and reduced variegation.
If your home does not receive enough natural light, supplement with grow lights. LED full spectrum bulbs providing 1000-2000 lumens per square foot work well. Keep lights on for 12-14 hours per day, positioning them 12-18 inches above the plant.
Rotate the plant periodically so all sides receive equal light exposure. Monitor for leaves turning brown or yellow, as this indicates too much light. Move to a shadier spot if this occurs.
During the summer, philodendron polypodioides can be placed outdoors in a shady location. Provide bright shade under a tree or patio. Bring the plant indoors before temperatures drop below 60°F.
When moving the plant to a new location, allow it to adjust to the light levels gradually over a week. A sudden change to brighter or darker conditions can shock the plant.
With the right balance of indirect sunlight, philodendron polypodioides will produce lush, vibrant foliage. Adjust the light as needed to keep the leaves a rich green color.
💧 Water
Philodendron polypodioides prefers consistently moist, well-draining soil. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom drainage holes. Never allow the potting mix to dry out completely.
While philodendron polypodioides is tolerant of occasional droughts, extended periods without water will cause leaf drop and decline.
Water needs can vary based on factors like temperature, humidity, light levels, and container size. In general:
- In spring and summer, water 1-2 times per week.
- In fall and winter, reduce frequency to every 10-14 days.
- Increase frequency with brighter light and higher temperatures.
- Larger plants and containers require more frequent watering.
Always check soil moisture before watering. Stick your finger into the top few inches of soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. You can also lift the pot to gauge the weight.
Water with room temperature filtered water or rainwater. Allow water to drain fully from the drainage holes before returning the pot.
Never allow philodendron polypodioides to sit in water, as this leads to root rot. Empty any water that collects in the saucer promptly.
Misting between waterings can help increase humidity. But misting should not replace thorough soakings when the soil is dry.
With the right watering regimen, you can maintain optimal moisture for lush, vibrant philodendron polypodioides growth. Adjust as needed based on the plant’s requirements.
🪴 Soil
Philodendron polypodioides thrives in a lightweight, well-draining potting mix. The soil should retain some moisture but also allow excess water to drain away readily.
A good quality potting soil for philodendron polypodioides contains:
- Peat moss – Improves moisture retention and aeration. Peat provides a fluffy texture.
- Perlite or pumice – Inorganic materials that keep soil loose and porous for drainage. Perlite is lightweight and pumice provides weight.
- Compost or worm castings – Small amounts of organic matter nourish plant roots. Compost introduces beneficial microbes.
- Bark or charcoal – Increases drainage and aeration in the soil mix. Bark and charcoal also absorb excess moisture.
Avoid heavy potting mixes with dense ingredients like clay or silt. These can become waterlogged.
Soilless mediums like sphagnum moss or coconut coir work well too. They offer moisture retention coupled with air pockets for roots.
When potting philodendron polypodioides, fill the container one-third full with potting mix. Set the root ball on top and fill in around it with more soil. Pack gently but don’t compress too firmly.
Allow fresh potting soil to dry out slightly before watering a newly planted philodendron. This helps prevent initial wetness from suffocating roots.
Re-pot philodendron polypodioides annually in fresh soil. This replenishes nutrients and improves drainage as old mixes degrade.
With a well-aerated, moisture-retentive soil, you can grow thriving philodendron polypodioides plants. Adjust components like perlite and peat as needed to tweak the soil drainage and moisture.
🍼 Fertilizer
Philodendron polypodioides benefits from regular fertilization during the active growing season to look its best. This provides the nutrients required for lush growth.
From spring through summer, feed philodendron polypodioides every 2-4 weeks. Discontinue fertilizing over winter when growth naturally slows.
Look for a balanced houseplant fertilizer that provides macro and micronutrients. Options include:
- Liquid fertilizers like fish emulsion or seaweed extract. Dilute to half strength and apply to moist soil.
- Water soluble powder formulas mixed into irrigation water. Rinse leaves after to avoid burn.
- Time release pellets or spikes inserted into the potting mix for gradual feeding.
- Compost tea made by steeping compost provides trace nutrients.
- Worm castings layered on the soil also slowly release nutrients.
Avoid over-fertilizing philodendron polypodioides, as excess salts can burn roots and leaves. Flush soil monthly by watering heavily to prevent buildup.
Reduce frequency in low light conditions where growth is slower. Only fertilize when actively growing before winter dormancy.
Look for signs of deficiency like yellowing leaves or stunted growth to determine if increased feeding is needed. Leach soil and resume fertilizer if so.
With a balanced fertilizer regimen tailored to growth rate, philodendron polypodioides will thrive and develop rich green foliage.
🌡️ Temperature
Philodendron polypodioides thrives in warm to high temperatures year-round. Ideal temperature range is 65-80°F (18-27°C).
- Minimum temperature: 60°F (15°C). Growth may slow below this point.
- Maximum temperature: 85°F (29°C). Above this can cause heat stress.
Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or above 90°F (32°C) can damage the plant.
Philodendron polypodioides enjoys warm conditions with little fluctuation between day and night temperatures.
- Keep indoor temperatures steady in the preferred range.
- Move plant away from drafty windows or air vents to prevent cold exposure.
- Use grow lights to provide ambient warmth as well as light.
In summer, philodendron polypodioides can be moved outdoors if temperatures remain above 65°F (18°C) at night.
Bring the plant back inside well before nighttime temperatures drop below 60°F (15°C) in fall.
Sudden temperature changes cause stress. When moving between indoors and outdoors, allow philodendron polypodioides to adjust gradually over 7-10 days.
With warm, consistent temperatures, philodendron polypodioides will remain actively growing. Monitor conditions and watch for signs of heat or cold stress. Maintain ideal temps for robust health.
💦 Humidity
Philodendron polypodioides thrives in relatively high humidity levels of 60-80%. This helps the large leaves stay perky and prevents leaf tip burn.
In dry indoor air, especially during winter when heaters run, humidity may easily fall below ideal levels for philodendron polypodioides. Take these steps to increase moisture in the air:
- Use a humidifier or vaporizer near the plant. Ultrasonic cool mist types work well to hydrate the air.
- Place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water. The evaporating water will provide localized humidity.
- Mist the plant daily using room temperature purified water. Avoid cold water, which can shock leaves.
- Grow philodendron polypodioides among other plants. A dense foliage grouping increases humidity through transpiration.
- Place bowls or trays of water around the plant. Wide, shallow containers have more surface area for evaporation.
- Shower or bathe with philodendron polypodioides in the bathroom 1-2 times per week. The steam provides a humid environment.
- Cover some of the soil with damp sphagnum moss to reduce evaporation.
- Run a humidifier near philodendron polypodioides when heating systems are running in dry months.
Monitor humidity levels with a hygrometer. Make adjustments as needed to maintain a minimum of 60% humidity for healthy philodendron polypodioides growth.
📃 Types of Philodendron polypodioides
There are a few different varieties of Philodendron polypodioides to choose from:
- Philodendron polypodioides var. polypodioides – This is the most common type. It has elongated, heart-shaped green leaves with silver variegation along the veins and edges.
- Philodendron polypodioides ‘Silver Cloud’ – This cultivar has more silver variegation on the leaves compared to the species. The leaves are almost white in color.
- Philodendron polypodioides ‘Burgundy’ – This variety has dark burgundy-colored stems and leaf veins. The leaves are more oval-shaped.
- Philodendron polypodioides ‘Green’ – As the name suggests, this variety lacks any variegation. The leaves are solid green in color with green stems.
- Philodendron polypodioides ‘Mini’ – A compact, miniature variety that grows only 6-12 inches tall. It has the typical elongated, variegated leaves but much smaller in size.
All types of Philodendron polypodioides require similar care in terms of light, water, humidity, and temperature. The main differences are in size and leaf coloration.
When selecting a variety, consider the level of variegation and mature size you prefer. The mini cultivar is best for small spaces while the species and other varieties can grow quite large under optimal conditions.
Blooming and Flowers
Philodendron polypodioides is grown for its ornamental foliage rather than flowers. However, under the right conditions, this plant can produce a bloom on a long inflorescence.
In the wild, philodendron polypodioides blooms in response to seasonal changes. Mimicking these conditions can sometimes trigger flowering in cultivation:
- Allow the plant to experience a dry period followed by increased watering. This simulates wet and dry seasons.
- Provide several weeks of cool temperatures around 60-65°F (15-18°C) followed by warmer temps.
- Increase light levels to very bright, indirect light without direct sun.
- Apply a high phosphorus fertilizer to stimulate blooming.
Even with ideal conditions, philodendron polypodioides may not bloom consistently. Flowers are not crucial to the health of the plant. Focus instead on proper care for foliage growth.
The inflorescence emerges from the base of the plant. It consists of a fleshy, pale green spathe up to 5 inches long enclosing a slender spadix covered in small flowers.
Flowers give way to reddish-orange berries. The berries are decorative but rarely form indoors. Pollination requires insects which are absent inside.
While philodendron polypodioides blooms are not showy, consider yourself lucky if your plant produces this interesting structure! Enjoy it as a bonus when providing ideal care for lush foliage.
🪴 Potting and Repotting Philodendron polypodioides
Philodendron polypodioides should be repotted into fresh soil every 2-3 years to provide proper nutrients and drainage. Repot in spring before active growth resumes.
Choosing a pot:
- Pick a container with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Plastic, ceramic, or terracotta pots work well.
- Size up 2-4 inches at each repotting as the plant grows. Philodendron polypodioides can reach 3-4 feet tall at maturity.
- Select an aesthetically pleasing pot that complements the plant’s foliage.
Soil mixes:
- Use a lightweight, porous potting mix formulated for aroids and epiphytes.
- Add perlite, orchid bark, or charcoal to improve drainage and aeration.
- Soilless mixes like peat and perlite or coconut coir work well.
Repotting steps:
- Carefully remove the plant from its current container and loosen the old soil from the roots.
- Prune any diseased or congested roots.
- Place a layer of potting mix in the new container. Position the plant inside and fill in around it.
- After repotting, avoid fertilizing for a month while roots establish.
- Initially provide more shade while the plant adjusts to the new pot.
With a roomy container and fresh growing medium every few years, philodendron polypodioides will continue growing vigorously. Timely repotting prevents decline from rootbound conditions.
✂️ Pruning Philodendron polypodioides
Pruning is an important part of caring for philodendron polypodioides. Trimming off certain growth helps maintain an attractive appearance and healthy plant.
Reasons to prune
- Remove yellow, dying, or dead leaves. Prune at the base of the leaf stalk.
- Trim off damaged, torn, or diseased foliage. Sterilize pruners between cuts.
- Cut back leggy stems to encourage bushier growth. Make cuts above leaf nodes.
- Prune to control size and shape if the plant is becoming overgrown.
- Pinching off stem tips can make the plant fuller.
When to prune
- Spring or summer is best for pruning philodendron polypodioides. Avoid pruning in fall.
- Time it just before or after repotting to allow for new growth.
- Prune whenever you notice damaged or unsightly growth.
Pruning tips
- Use clean, sharp pruners or scissors to make smooth cuts. Tearing leaves can damage the plant.
- Avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at one time to prevent stress.
- Always cut just above a node or branching point for the best regrowth.
Regular pruning encourages a lush, shapely philodendron polypodioides. Remove unwanted growth as needed to keep your plant looking its best.
🌱 How to Propagate Philodendron polypodioides
Philodendron polypodioides can be propagated by seed, stem cuttings, or division. Propagation is a great way to create new plants.
Propagating by Seed
- Seeds can be collected from the orange berries that sometimes form on mature plants.
- Sow seeds in a sterile seed starting mix. Cover lightly with mix.
- Maintain warm temperatures of 70-80°F and even moisture.
- Germination can be erratic and take 1-3 months. Be patient.
- Transplant seedlings when 2-3 leaves emerge. Grow on until large enough to repot.
Propagating by Stem Cuttings
- Take 4-6 inch cuttings from healthy stems using a clean, sharp knife or pruners.
- Remove lower leaves and trim the bottom with a slanted cut.
- Allow cut end to dry for 1-2 days before planting.
- Insert into moist propagation mix like peat and perlite.
- Enclose in a plastic bag or dome to maintain humidity.
- Keep soil slightly moist but not soggy.
- New roots and growth should emerge in 4-8 weeks. Gradually acclimate to normal conditions.
Propagating by Division
- Shake the plant from its pot and divide the rootball using your hands or a knife.
- Ensure each division has 3-5 leaves and healthy roots attached.
- Repot divisions in small pots using fresh potting mix.
- Water sparingly until new growth appears. Keep in bright, indirect light.
With proper care, new philodendron polypodioides plants will flourish. Propagation creates beautiful specimens to add to your collection or share with fellow plant lovers!
🐛 Common Pests
Philodendron polypodioides can be susceptible to insect infestations. Catching pests early and using integrated pest management allows you to deal with issues safely and effectively.
Mealybugs
- Cottony white insects that leave sticky honeydew on foliage.
- Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap spray. Q-tips dipped in alcohol can manually remove.
Scale Insects
- Small round bumps attached to leaves and stems that can be brown, white, or black.
- Prune off heavily infested stems. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap sprays.
Aphids
- Small pear-shaped soft-bodied insects that cluster on new growth.
- Knock off with a strong spray of water. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Thrips
- Tiny winged pests that cause silver scarring on leaves.
- Use sticky traps and predatory mites to control populations. Insecticidal soap spray is also effective.
Fungus Gnats
- Harmless flies that indicate overly damp soil.
- Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Use hydrogen peroxide drenches.
Isolate and treat infested plants promptly. Maintain optimal growing conditions and monitor closely to prevent future pest problems.
🩺 Common Problems With Philodendron polypodioides
Being able to identify and resolve issues with your Philodendron polypodioides will help ensure a healthy plant. Look out for these common problems:
Yellowing or wilting leaves
- This can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, or improper lighting. Check soil moisture and drainage, water when dry, and move plant to a suitable light location.
Leaf drop
- Natural seasonal leaf drop is normal. But excessive leaf drop can result from temperature stress, overwatering, pests, or low humidity. Improve conditions and prune away bare stems.
Slow growth
- Inadequate lighting, low temperatures, or lack of fertilizer can lead to reduced growth. Increase sunlight, maintain ideal temps, and feed regularly.
Root rot
- Fungal disease caused by overly wet soil. Plant declines and leaves yellow. Improve drainage, allow soil to dry out between waterings, and reduce watering frequency.
Pests
- Mealybugs, aphids, thrips – isolate and treat infestations early using organic sprays, soap, and oils. Check new plants closely.
Leaf spots or blight
- Various fungal diseases cause spots, patches, or blackening on leaves. Prune affected areas and apply copper fungicide if severe.
By identifying issues promptly and making appropriate adjustments to care, you can get your philodendron polypodioides thriving again. Maintain optimal conditions to prevent future problems.
🖼️ Display Ideas
With its stunning variegated foliage, Philodendron polypodioides makes a fabulous display plant. Here are some tips for showing it off:
- Let it trail from a hanging basket or wall mount. The cascading stems look beautiful dangling in the air.
- Situate in a bright window where the unique leaves can be illuminated.
- Pair with other tropical plants like ferns, orchids, or bromeliads for an exotic indoor jungle vignette.
- Plant in a decorative container like a glazed ceramic or carved wood planter to complement the foliage.
- Use as a centerpiece on a table or shelf where the long leaves can trail over the edges.
- Place on a plant stand or pedestal to elevate the display.
- Arrange spotlights or grow lights above to highlight the silver variegation.
- Add a moss pole or trellis for the stems to climb, showing off the leaf patterns.
- Prune and train the stems into a tree form or topiary for a sculptural shape.
With the right setting and companions, Philodendron polypodioides can be a true showstopper in any indoor space. Use its form and colors to create your ideal display.
👍 Pro Tips for Healthy Growth
- Provide high humidity by grouping plants together or using a humidifier. Philodendron polypodioides thrives in 60% humidity or higher.
- Flush the soil monthly with clean water to prevent fertilizer and mineral buildup.
- Wipe leaves periodically with a damp cloth to keep them dust-free and allow optimal photosynthesis.
- Rotate the plant every few weeks so all sides get even light exposure for uniform growth.
- Prune off any yellow or damaged leaves promptly to maintain vigor. Make cuts just above leaf nodes.
- Avoid repotting more than necessary, as philodendron polypodioides prefers being slightly root bound.
- Keep the soil slightly moist at all times – both severe dryness or wetness can damage roots.
- Mist frequently between waterings to boost moisture levels for this tropical plant.
- Provide a moss stick, pole, or trellis for stems to climb on, which encourages larger leaves.
- Propagate new plants from stem cuttings to create a lush, full potted arrangement.
With the proper care, your Philodendron polypodioides will thrive for many years. Use these tips to keep it growing strong and looking its best!
❓ FAQ
Q: How much light does a Philodendron polypodioides need?
A: Philodendron polypodioides thrives in bright, indirect light. Provide 12-16 hours of sunlight per day filtered through sheer curtains. Direct sun will scorch the leaves.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Philodendron polypodioides?
A: Daytime temperatures of 65-80°F (18-27°C) and above 60°F (15°C) at night are ideal. Avoid cold drafts below 50°F (10°C) and hot conditions above 90°F (32°C).
Q: How often should I water my Philodendron polypodioides?
A: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil becomes dry, about 1-2 times per week in summer and every 10-14 days in winter. Always check soil moisture before watering.
Q: What kind of potting mix does Philodendron polypodioides need?
A: Use a lightweight, well-draining potting mix. Add perlite, orchid bark, or charcoal to improve drainage and aeration. Soilless mixes like peat/perlite or coconut coir work well.
Q: Why are the leaves on my Philodendron polypodioides turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves often indicate overwatering or insufficient light. Allow soil to dry out between waterings and provide brighter filtered light. Fertilizer buildup or cold drafts can also cause yellowing.
Q: How do I increase humidity for my Philodendron polypodioides?
A: Use a humidifier, place the plant on a pebble tray, or group plants together to increase humidity. Misting leaves and showering with the plant also helps. Ideal humidity is 60-80%.
Q: How often should I fertilize Philodendron polypodioides?
A: Fertilize at half strength every 2-4 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer. Discontinue fertilizing in fall and winter.
Q: What causes brown leaf tips on Philodendron polypodioides?
A: Low humidity, inadequate watering, or excessive fertilizer can cause brown crispy leaf tips. Increase humidity, adjust watering, and reduce fertilizer concentration.
📝 Final Thoughts
With its stunning variegated leaves, Philodendron polypodioides makes a wonderful addition to any indoor plant collection. This tropical climber is sure to become a prized houseplant with proper care.
Provide Philodendron polypodioides with bright, indirect light, warm temperatures, high humidity, and regular watering with well-draining soil. Fertilize during the growing season for lush growth. Repot when rootbound.
Take care to avoid common problems like pests, diseases, and cultural issues that can arise from improper growing conditions. Identify and resolve any problems promptly.
Philodendron polypodioides can thrive for many years when given the right care. Be sure to prune and propagate your plant periodically to maintain its shape and fullness.
The gorgeous foliage of this philodendron species will brighten up any space. With its tropical appeal, it works well in home jungle environments alongside other plants.
Caring for houseplants is hugely rewarding when you are able to keep them growing happily for the long term. Follow the guidance in this care guide and you’ll be able to enjoy your Philodendron polypodioides for years to come!
📚 Further Reading
📗 Learn More about Philodendron polypodioides
📚 References
📘 Species 330985 – Sistema de Informação sobre a Biodiversidade Brasileira.
📘 Philodendron pedatum – Whole Compound – PubChem, National Center for Biotechnology Information.