Philodendrons are a large and diverse genus of tropical plants, popular for their lush foliage and easy care. The genus name, derived from the Greek words phileo (to love) and dendron (tree), hints at their natural inclination: many species are naturally climbing plants. This behavior is deeply rooted in their biology as they seek light in the dense rainforest understory.
This upward growth habit, known as hemiepiphytism, is a survival strategy allowing them to ascend trees to reach the brighter canopy. In their native Central and South American habitats, these plants begin life on the forest floor, grow toward a tree trunk, and then attach themselves to climb toward the sun.
Distinguishing Climbing and Self-Heading Types
Not all Philodendrons exhibit the same growth pattern; the genus is divided into two main categories based on their habit: climbing and self-heading. Climbing varieties, often called vining types, have long, slender stems that require external support to grow vertically. Classic examples include Philodendron hederaceum (Heartleaf Philodendron) and Philodendron erubescens.
The second group is known as self-heading. These plants grow upright, maintaining a compact, bushy form with short, thick stems and leaves forming a rosette or dense cluster. They do not need external support. Well-known self-heading types include Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ and the species formerly known as P. selloum, which has been reclassified as Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum.
Self-heading Philodendrons have short internodes—the space between where leaves emerge—which results in their dense, upright structure. Understanding this difference is important for proper houseplant care, as climbing types will sprawl or trail without assistance.
How Philodendrons Physically Climb
Philodendrons ascend surfaces using specialized structures called aerial roots. Unlike the roots that anchor the plant in the soil, these roots emerge from the stem nodes above the ground. In their natural environment, aerial roots allow the plant to firmly attach to the bark of trees.
These roots serve two primary functions: anchorage and absorption. The smaller, tougher roots firmly grip the support structure, providing the stability necessary for vertical growth. Once attached, the roots can also absorb moisture and nutrients from the surface they are clinging to, such as a mossy tree trunk.
The aerial roots are part of the plant’s feeding and hydration system. When a climbing Philodendron successfully attaches and climbs, it often produces larger leaves—a phenomenon known as maturation—because it has secured better access to light and resources.
Supporting Vertical Growth
For houseplant owners, facilitating this natural climbing behavior is important for the plant’s health. Providing a vertical structure encourages the plant to mature, leading to larger leaves and a robust growth habit. The most common support structure is a moss pole, which effectively mimics the texture and moisture retention of a rainforest tree trunk.
The Philodendron’s aerial roots will embed themselves into the moist surface of the moss pole for stability and hydration. Other options, such as wooden stakes or trellises, can be used, but a moss pole provides a humid micro-environment. To maximize the benefit, keep the pole consistently moist by watering it directly when watering the soil.
Training the plant involves gently guiding the stem and aerial roots toward the support structure, sometimes using soft ties or clips to initiate the connection. As the plant grows, new aerial roots will naturally adhere to the pole, allowing the Philodendron to thrive in an upright position. Providing this support maintains vigorous, healthy growth and prevents the plant from trailing over the edge of the pot.