Philodendrons are popular indoor plants, known for their diverse and attractive foliage. Many owners wonder if these plants ever produce flowers. While philodendrons do bloom, observing a flower on an indoor philodendron is a rare event compared to their natural tropical habitats.
The Philodendron Bloom Explained
A philodendron bloom is technically an inflorescence, a specialized structure with two main parts: a spathe and a spadix. The spathe is a modified, leaf-like bract that encases the spadix, similar to a calla lily flower. This protective spathe can vary in color (often green, white, or pale pink) and usually blends with the plant’s foliage.
Inside the spathe lies the spadix, a central, spike-like structure covered with numerous tiny flowers. The spadix is commonly creamy white or yellow and may emit a subtle fragrance, particularly at night, to attract pollinators in its native environment. In nature, the bloom’s primary purpose is reproduction, facilitating pollination by attracting specific insects like beetles.
Why Philodendrons Bloom (or Don’t)
Philodendrons require specific environmental conditions and maturity to produce flowers, especially in their native tropical settings. Plant age is a significant factor; philodendrons often need to reach a certain level of maturity, sometimes taking several years, before blooming. Some species, such as the split-leaf philodendron, may take 15 to 16 years to mature enough to flower.
Consistent warm temperatures, high humidity, and specific light conditions are important triggers for blooming. Philodendrons thrive in temperatures ranging from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C) and prefer humidity levels of 60% or higher. They also benefit from bright, indirect light, mimicking the dappled sunlight under a forest canopy. These ideal conditions are often difficult to replicate indoors, which explains why indoor philodendrons rarely bloom.
Encouraging Indoor Blooms
While blooming indoors remains rare, optimizing environmental conditions can increase the likelihood of your philodendron producing a flower. Providing bright, indirect light is beneficial; a location near a north or east-facing window with filtered sunlight is often suitable. Too much direct sunlight can scorch leaves, while insufficient light can hinder growth and flowering.
Maintaining consistent temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C) and high humidity levels (around 60% or more) can further support bloom development. Using a humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray with water, or grouping it with other plants can help increase local humidity.
Regular fertilization with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) provides essential nutrients for overall plant health and potential flowering. Ensuring the plant has reached sufficient maturity and is not overpotted, allowing it to become somewhat rootbound, can also contribute to bloom initiation.
What To Do When Your Philodendron Blooms
When a philodendron blooms, the inflorescence typically lasts for a relatively short period, often around two days, though some can persist for several weeks under optimal conditions. In nature, the bloom undergoes thermogenesis, where the spadix generates heat (up to 114°F / 45.5°C) to attract pollinators. The bloom might also emit a distinct, often earthy or musty, fragrance, particularly at night.
For indoor plants, pollination is generally not a concern unless you intend to collect seeds, which requires manual intervention. You can leave the bloom on the plant to enjoy its unique appearance, or carefully remove it once it begins to fade.
All parts of the philodendron plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic if ingested. These needle-like crystals can cause immediate pain, burning, and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat. Therefore, keep philodendrons out of reach of children and pets, and wear gloves when handling the plant, especially if removing blooms.