Heart-leaf Philodendron
Philodendron hederaceum
Sweetheart Plant, Sweetheart Vine, Parlor Ivy
The Heart-leaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) is a beloved and classic houseplant, adored for its lush, heart-shaped leaves and forgiving nature. This fast-growing, trailing vine is the perfect choice for both beginners and seasoned plant parents, adding a cascade of tropical greenery to any indoor space. Its versatility allows it to be displayed in hanging baskets, on shelves, or trained to climb, making it a timeless addition to your home.
📝 Heart-leaf Philodendron Care Notes
🌿 Care Instructions
⚠️ Common Pests
📊 Growth Information
🪴 In This Guide 🪴
☀️ Heart-leaf Philodendron Light Requirements (Best Indoor Lighting)
Optimal Light for a Happy Philodendron (Bright, Indirect)
Getting the lighting right is the key to lush, vibrant growth for your Heart-leaf Philodendron.
Ideal Lighting: This plant thrives in medium to bright, indirect light. A spot a few feet away from an east or west-facing window is perfect. This provides the gentle, filtered sunlight it would receive on the floor of a tropical rainforest.
Avoid Direct Sun: Harsh, direct sunlight will scorch the delicate leaves, causing them to turn yellow and develop burnt patches. If a south-facing window is your only option, be sure to filter the light with a sheer curtain.
Low Light Tolerance: One of the best qualities of the Heart-leaf Philodendron is its ability to tolerate lower light conditions. It will survive and even grow in a less-than-ideal spot, but the growth will be slower, the leaves may be smaller, and the plant can become leggy as it stretches towards the light source.
Signs of Too Much or Too Little Light
- Too Little Light: Long, spindly stems with large gaps between the leaves (leggy growth), and smaller-than-average leaves.
- Too Much Light: Yellowing leaves, scorched brown spots, or a washed-out, pale look to the foliage.
💧 Watering Your Heart-leaf Philodendron (How-To Guide)
When to Water Your Philodendron
Proper watering is crucial for a healthy Heart-leaf Philodendron. It’s a plant that would rather be a little too dry than a little too wet.
Watering Frequency – The best rule of thumb is to water thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches of the soil are dry to the touch. This typically means watering about once a week during the spring and summer growing season. In the fall and winter, growth slows down, and you should reduce watering frequency to every 10-14 days.
Best Way to Water Your Philodendron
Watering Method – When you water, do so thoroughly. Pour water over the soil until it flows freely out of the pot’s drainage holes. This ensures the entire root system gets a good drink. After watering, discard any excess water from the saucer to prevent the plant from sitting in water, which is a leading cause of root rot.Overwatering vs. Underwatering Signs
Know the Signs – Yellowing leaves are the classic sign of overwatering. If you see this, check the soil. If it’s soggy, let it dry out more between waterings. Drooping, wilting leaves can be a sign of both over and underwatering. Always check the soil’s moisture level before you water to be sure.Water Temperature Matters
Water Quality - Use lukewarm or tepid water. Cold water can shock the roots of this tropical plant. If your tap water is heavily treated, letting it sit out overnight can help dissipate some of the chlorine.🪴 Best Soil for Heart-leaf Philodendron (Potting Mix Guide)
Choosing the Right Potting Mix
The right soil is the foundation for a healthy plant, providing essential nutrients, aeration, and moisture retention.
Soil Composition – A Heart-leaf Philodendron needs a potting mix that is well-aerated and fast-draining to prevent waterlogging. A high-quality, peat-based potting mix is an excellent choice. These mixes retain moisture without becoming overly saturated.
DIY Philodendron Soil Mix – For an ideal custom blend, mix equal parts standard potting soil, peat moss (or coco coir), and perlite. This creates a light, airy medium that gives the roots room to breathe and prevents compaction.
Importance of Good Drainage
Good Drainage is Key – No matter what soil mix you use, ensure your pot has drainage holes. This is non-negotiable for preventing root rot, the most common issue for these plants. Adding a layer of pebbles at the bottom of the pot does not improve drainage and is a common myth; good soil and drainage holes are all you need.🍼 Fertilizing Your Heart-leaf Philodendron (Feeding Guide)
Best Fertilizer for Philodendrons
Feeding your Heart-leaf Philodendron provides the nutrients it needs to produce lush, beautiful foliage, especially during its active growing season.
Fertilizer Type: A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer designed for houseplants is ideal. Look for a formula with an N-P-K ratio like 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, which supports overall plant health.
How Often to Fertilize
Frequency: Fertilize your philodendron once a month during the spring and summer. During the fall and winter, the plant enters a dormant period, so you should stop fertilizing to allow it to rest.How to Apply Fertilizer
Application: To avoid burning the roots, always dilute the fertilizer to half the strength recommended on the packaging. Apply it to soil that is already moist, never to dry soil.Signs of Fertilizer Issues
Signs of Over-fertilizing: A white crust on the soil surface, brown and crispy leaf tips, or wilting can all be signs of too much fertilizer. If this happens, flush the soil with water and reduce the frequency of feeding.🌡️ Heart-leaf Philodendron Temperature Tolerance (Ideal Range)
Ideal Temperature for Philodendrons
Coming from a tropical environment, the Heart-leaf Philodendron enjoys warm and stable temperatures.
Ideal Temperature Range: This plant is happiest in average home temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C). It can tolerate a slightly wider range, but it’s best to avoid temperatures below 60°F (15°C).
Protect from Temperature Extremes
Avoid Sudden Changes: Keep your philodendron away from drafts, open windows in winter, and direct blasts from air conditioners or heating vents. Sudden temperature fluctuations can stress the plant and lead to leaf drop.💦 Heart-leaf Philodendron Humidity Needs (Keeping Leaves Lush)
Ideal Humidity for Philodendrons
While surprisingly tolerant of average household humidity, providing some extra moisture in the air will result in larger, more luscious leaves.
Ideal Humidity Range – The Heart-leaf Philodendron thrives in moderate to high humidity, ideally around 40-60%. It can adapt to lower levels but will truly flourish with a bit more moisture.
Easy Ways to Increase Humidity
Here are a few simple methods to boost the humidity for your philodendron:
- Misting: A light misting with room temperature water every few days can provide a temporary humidity lift.
- Pebble Tray: Place the plant on a tray filled with pebbles and water. The evaporation will create a humid microenvironment. Ensure the bottom of the pot isn’t touching the water.
- Humidifier: The most effective method for maintaining consistent humidity is to use a room humidifier, especially during dry winter months.
- Grouping Plants: Cluster your philodendron with other plants that love humidity. The combined transpiration will naturally raise the ambient humidity.
- Location: Placing your plant in a naturally humid room like a bathroom or kitchen can also do the trick.
🌸 Heart-leaf Philodendron Flowers (A Rare Sight)
The Heart-leaf Philodendron is grown for its stunning foliage. While it is technically a flowering plant, it very rarely blooms indoors. In its native habitat, a mature plant will produce small, greenish-white spathe-and-spadix flowers, but the conditions required for this are nearly impossible to replicate in a home environment. You can enjoy your plant for its decades-long lifespan without ever seeing a flower, and that’s perfectly normal.
🏷️ Heart-leaf Philodendron Varieties (Types of Philodendron hederaceum)
While the classic deep green Heart-leaf is the most common, there are several stunning cultivars to collect:
- ‘Brasil’: This is one of the most popular varieties, featuring the classic heart-shaped leaves with beautiful splashes of golden-yellow and chartreuse variegation down the center.
- ‘Micans’: This variety has velvety, iridescent leaves that can appear deep green or reddish-purple depending on the light. The new leaves emerge in a shade of chartreuse with pink edges.
- ‘Lemon Lime’: As its name suggests, this cultivar has vibrant, electric chartreuse or lemon-lime colored leaves. It’s a fantastic pop of color but needs slightly brighter indirect light to maintain its brilliant hue.
- ‘Variegata’ (Cream Splash/Silver Stripe): A rarer and highly sought-after variety, this philodendron has deep green leaves with splashes and patches of creamy white or silvery variegation.
🪴 Potting and Repotting a Heart-leaf Philodendron
Your Heart-leaf Philodendron is a fast grower and will need to be repotted every 2-3 years to give its roots fresh soil and more space to grow.
Choosing a Pot and Soil
Potting Mix: A fresh, well-draining, peat-based potting mix is perfect.
Pot Selection: Always choose a pot with drainage holes. Select a new pot that is only 1-2 inches wider in diameter than the current one. Moving to a pot that is too large can lead to the soil staying wet for too long, increasing the risk of root rot.
When to Repot Your Philodendron
Repotting Frequency: It’s time to repot when your plant becomes root-bound. Telltale signs include roots growing out of the drainage holes, water running straight through the pot without being absorbed, or the plant’s growth slowing dramatically. The best time to repot is in the spring.How to Repot a Philodendron (Step-by-Step)
Repotting Process:
- Water your plant a day before you plan to repot it to minimize stress.
- Gently remove the plant from its current pot. You can tap the sides to help loosen it.
- Loosen the root ball and gently shake off some of the old soil.
- Inspect the roots and trim away any that are black, brown, or mushy.
- Place a layer of fresh potting mix in the new pot.
- Center the plant in the new pot at the same depth it was previously planted.
- Fill in the sides with more fresh soil, gently patting it down.
- Water the plant thoroughly and let any excess water drain away.
✂️ How to Prune a Heart-leaf Philodendron for Fuller Growth
Pruning is the secret to a full, bushy Heart-leaf Philodendron. It’s a simple process that encourages the plant to look its best.
Why and When to Prune
- Encourage Bushiness: To prevent your philodendron from becoming long and stringy, regularly trim the ends of the vines. This signals the plant to branch out, creating a much fuller appearance.
- When to Prune: You can do light pruning any time of year, but for a more substantial trim, it’s best to do it in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.
Pruning Technique
- How to Prune: Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Make your cut just after a leaf node (the little bump on the stem where a leaf grows). You can trim the vines to any desired length to control the plant’s size and shape.
Propagate Your Cuttings
- Don’t Waste Cuttings: The pieces you trim off are perfect for propagating new plants. It’s an easy way to get more plants for free!
- Remove Old Leaves: Regularly snip off any yellowing or dead leaves to keep the plant healthy and direct its energy toward new growth.
🌱 How to Propagate a Heart-leaf Philodendron
One of the greatest joys of owning a Heart-leaf Philodendron is how incredibly easy it is to propagate. The most common and successful method is using stem cuttings.
Water Propagation for Philodendrons
Propagating in Water
- Using sterile scissors, take a healthy stem cutting that is 4-6 inches long. Make sure the cutting has at least 2-4 leaves and a few nodes.
- Remove the leaf or two closest to the cut end of the stem to expose the nodes.
- Place the cutting in a jar of room temperature water, ensuring at least one or two of the exposed nodes are submerged. The leaves should remain above the water.
- Put the jar in a location with bright, indirect light.
- Change the water every few days to keep it fresh. Roots should start to appear from the nodes within a couple of weeks.
- Once the new roots are about an inch long, you can transplant the cutting into a pot with soil. For more detail, check out our guide on water propagation.
Soil Propagation for Philodendrons
Propagating in Soil
- Prepare your stem cuttings just as you would for water propagation.
- (Optional) For a higher success rate, dip the cut end of the stem into a rooting hormone powder.
- Plant the cutting directly into a small pot filled with a moist, well-draining potting mix. Make sure at least one node is buried beneath the soil.
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. You can cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to create a mini-greenhouse effect, which will increase humidity and encourage rooting.
- After a few weeks, you can test for root growth by giving the cutting a very gentle tug. If you feel resistance, roots have successfully formed. For a complete walkthrough, see our soil propagation guide.
🐛 Common Heart-leaf Philodendron Pests and How to Treat Them
Common Pests
While generally pest-resistant, the Heart-leaf Philodendron can occasionally fall victim to common houseplant pests. Regularly inspect the leaves (especially the undersides) to catch any problems early.
- Spider Mites - These tiny pests thrive in dry conditions and are hard to see with the naked eye. The first sign is usually fine webbing on the plant. You may also see tiny yellow or white stippling on the leaves.
- Mealybugs - These look like small, white, cottony masses and are typically found clustered on the stems or in the nooks where leaves meet the stem.
- Scale Insects - Scale appears as small, brown, immobile bumps on the stems and leaves. They feed on the plant’s sap, which can weaken it over time.
- Aphids - Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that tend to cluster on new growth, sucking sap and leaving behind a sticky residue called honeydew.
Pest Treatment
If you discover pests, the first step is to isolate your philodendron to prevent them from spreading to your other plants. For most common pests, you can begin treatment by wiping the leaves down with a damp cloth or spraying the plant with water. For more stubborn infestations, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, ensuring you coat all surfaces of the plant. Repeat the treatment as necessary according to the product’s instructions.🩺 Troubleshooting Common Heart-leaf Philodendron Problems
Your Heart-leaf Philodendron is great at communicating its needs through its leaves. Here’s how to diagnose and fix common issues.
- Yellowing Leaves - This is the number one sign of overwatering. The soil is likely staying too wet for too long. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out completely before watering again, and make sure your pot has excellent drainage.
- Brown, Crispy Edges - Brown and crispy leaf tips are usually a sign that the air is too dry. This plant is native to humid environments. Increase humidity by misting, using a pebble tray, or placing a humidifier nearby. This can also be a sign of underwatering.
- Wilting or Drooping - This can be caused by both overwatering and underwatering. The best way to know for sure is to feel the soil. If it’s bone dry, give the plant a thorough watering. If the soil is soggy, the roots are likely suffocating and developing root rot, which prevents them from taking up water.
- Leggy Growth - Long, stretched-out stems with lots of space between the leaves are a clear indication that your plant needs more light. Move it to a location with brighter, indirect sunlight.
- Small Leaves - If the new leaves emerging are much smaller than the older ones, your plant is likely asking for more light or nutrients. Move it to a brighter spot and consider feeding it with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Brown or Black Spots - Dark, soft spots on the leaves can be a sign of a bacterial or fungal infection, often caused by water sitting on the leaves for too long. Try to water the soil directly and avoid getting the foliage wet.
🖼️ Styling and Display Ideas for Your Heart-leaf Philodendron
The trailing habit of the Heart-leaf Philodendron makes it an incredibly versatile plant for decorating your home. Here are some popular ways to show it off:
- Hanging Baskets: This is the classic way to display a philodendron. Let its vines cascade beautifully from a macrame or woven hanging planter.
- High Shelves: Place it on top of a bookshelf, cabinet, or floating shelf and allow the vines to drape elegantly down the side, creating a living waterfall of green.
- Climbing Plant: Encourage its natural climbing tendency by providing a moss pole or a small trellis. You can also use small, clear wall hooks to guide its vines up a wall, creating a stunning living art piece.
- Mantelpiece Accent: Its trailing nature makes it a perfect softening accent for a fireplace mantel or the top of a tall piece of furniture.
- Mixed Container Garden: Use the Heart-leaf Philodendron as the “spiller” element in a large planter with other houseplants, allowing it to trail over the pot’s edge.
🌟 Heart-leaf Philodendron Care Tips (Pro Advice)
💧 Less is more with water: The most common mistake is overwatering. Always check the soil first. If the top 1-2 inches are dry, it’s time to water.
✂️ Prune for a fuller plant: Don’t be afraid to trim leggy stems. Regular pruning encourages a bushier, more compact plant and gives you plenty of cuttings to propagate.
☀️ Bright but indirect light is best: While it tolerates low light, it will grow much faster and fuller in a spot with bright, filtered sunlight.
🧼 Wipe the leaves: Dust can accumulate on the leaves, blocking light and hindering photosynthesis. Gently wipe them down with a damp cloth every month or so to keep them clean and glossy.
🔄 Rotate for even growth: To prevent a one-sided plant, give your philodendron a quarter turn every time you water. This ensures all parts of the plant get access to light.
🌡️ Keep it warm: As a tropical native, this plant loves warmth. Keep it in a spot with stable temperatures, away from cold drafts or hot air from vents.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the leaves on my Heart-leaf Philodendron turning yellow?
Yellow leaves are the most common sign of overwatering. This plant prefers for its soil to dry out partially between waterings. Make sure the pot has good drainage and you’re not letting it sit in a saucer of water. Cut back on watering and the plant should recover.How can I make my Heart-leaf Philodendron fuller?
A leggy philodendron is usually reaching for more light. Move it to a brighter location with indirect sunlight. To encourage a fuller, bushier shape, regularly prune the trailing stems. This will prompt the plant to send out new growth from the top, and you can use the cuttings for propagation!Is the Heart-leaf Philodendron toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes, all parts of the Heart-leaf Philodendron are toxic to pets and humans if ingested. It contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation, swelling, and digestive upset. It’s best to keep this plant in a location that is out of reach of pets and children, like a high shelf or a hanging basket.What's the difference between a Heart-leaf Philodendron and a Pothos?
They look similar, but the easiest way to tell them apart is by their leaves and stems. The Heart-leaf Philodendron has thinner, softer, and more distinctly heart-shaped leaves. Pothos leaves are typically thicker, waxier, and more spade-shaped. The new leaves on a Philodendron emerge with a protective sheath, which eventually dries and falls off.Can I grow a Heart-leaf Philodendron in low light?
Yes, the Heart-leaf Philodendron is known for its tolerance of low light conditions, making it a great choice for less-than-sunny spots in your home. However, it will grow faster and have more vibrant leaves in medium to bright indirect light. In very low light, the growth may become slow and leggy.Why are my philodendron's leaves so small?
Small new leaves are often a sign that the plant needs more light or nutrients. While it can tolerate low light, it won’t grow to its full potential. Try moving it to a brighter spot and feeding it with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to encourage larger leaf development.How often should I repot my Heart-leaf Philodendron?
This is a fast-growing plant, but it doesn’t mind being slightly root-bound. You’ll likely need to repot it every 2-3 years, or when you see roots growing out of the drainage holes. Choose a new pot that is only 1-2 inches larger in diameter.Does the Heart-leaf Philodendron clean the air?
Yes, it’s an excellent air-purifying plant. It has been shown to be effective at removing formaldehyde, a common indoor air pollutant, from the environment, making your home healthier and more beautiful.ℹ️ Heart-leaf Philodendron Info
Care and Maintenance
🪴 Soil Type and pH: Well-draining potting mix with peat moss.
💧 Humidity and Misting: Average to high, 40-60%
✂️ Pruning: Trim leggy vines to encourage fuller, bushier growth.
🧼 Cleaning: Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and help them breathe.
🌱 Repotting: Every 2-3 years or when root-bound.
🔄 Repotting Frequency: Every 2-3 years
❄️ Seasonal Changes in Care: Reduce watering and stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Growing Characteristics
💥 Growth Speed: Fast
🔄 Life Cycle: Perennial
💥 Bloom Time: Rarely flowers indoors
🌡️ Hardiness Zones: 11-12 (outdoors)
🗺️ Native Area: Central America and the Caribbean
🚘 Hibernation: No (growth slows in winter)
Propagation and Health
📍 Suitable Locations: Hanging baskets, shelves, desktops, climbing supports
🪴 Propagation Methods: Easy via stem cuttings in water or soil.
🐛 Common Pests: spider-mites, mealybugs, scale-insects, aphids, and fungus-gnats
🦠 Possible Diseases: Root rot, bacterial leaf spot
Plant Details
🌿 Plant Type: Vine
🍃 Foliage Type: Evergreen
🎨 Color of Leaves: Green, chartreuse, variegated
🌸 Flower Color: Greenish-white (rare indoors)
🌼 Blooming: Rarely blooms indoors
🍽️ Edibility: Not edible; toxic if ingested.
📏 Mature Size: Vines can reach 10 feet or more indoors
Additional Info
🌻 General Benefits: Excellent air purification, easy to care for.
💊 Medical Properties: None
🧿 Feng Shui: Promotes a calming and positive energy flow.
⭐ Zodiac Sign Compatibility: Taurus
🌈 Symbolism or Folklore: Love, growth, and connection.
📝 Interesting Facts: The Heart-leaf Philodendron is often confused with Pothos, but you can tell the difference by its distinctly heart-shaped leaves and thinner, more delicate stems. It’s an incredibly resilient plant that can tolerate a wide range of conditions, making it a go-to for beginners.
Buying and Usage
🛒 What to Look for When Buying: Look for a plant with vibrant, glossy leaves and plenty of new growth. Avoid plants with yellowing leaves or long, bare stems, as these can be signs of overwatering or insufficient light.
🪴 Other Uses: Ideal for living walls, terrariums, or as a trailing element in mixed container gardens.
Decoration and Styling
🖼️ Display Ideas: Let it trail from a hanging macrame planter, drape it along a mantelpiece, or train it to climb a moss pole for a vertical accent.
🧵 Styling Tips: Pairs well with other easy-care plants like the Snake Plant or ZZ Plant for a low-maintenance, high-impact green space.
🪴 See also 🪴
Complete Guide to Philodendron Florida Beauty x Tortum Care and Growth
Complete Guide to Philodendron Mayoi Care and Growth
Complete Guide to Philodendron White Princess Care and Growth
Complete Guide to Philodendron Polypodioides Care and Growth
Complete Guide To Lemon Lime Philodendron Care and Growth
Complete Guide to Philodendron Pink Princess Care and Growth
