Philodendron ‘Jungle Boogie’, also known as ‘Tiger Tooth’ Philodendron, is a tropical plant valued for its distinct foliage. Its elongated leaves feature deeply serrated, “toothed” edges, giving them a unique, ruffled appearance. New growth emerges in a bright green or yellow shade, maturing into a deeper, rich green.
Understanding Jungle Boogie’s Natural Growth
Philodendron ‘Jungle Boogie’ is naturally a semi-climbing aroid. In its native rainforest habitat, it seeks out and wraps its roots around tree trunks or other supportive structures. This behavior is facilitated by its aerial roots, which attach the plant to surfaces, absorb moisture, and provide stability as it ascends.
Without adequate support, the ‘Jungle Boogie’ stem elongates, leading to a sprawling or trailing growth habit. While younger plants may appear bushy, they will eventually lean or sprawl as they mature and their stems can no longer support their own weight. Providing a climbing structure allows the plant to mimic its natural environment and prevents it from becoming leggy or unruly.
Benefits of Encouraging Climbing Growth
Encouraging your Philodendron ‘Jungle Boogie’ to climb offers several advantages for its health and appearance. A primary benefit is the potential for larger, more mature leaves. When given vertical support, its leaves can grow significantly larger, sometimes reaching 12 to 18 inches in length, and may exhibit more pronounced “tiger tooth” serrations.
Climbing also contributes to more vigorous and healthier overall growth. Support helps the plant direct energy into producing new foliage and a stronger stem structure. Improved air circulation around the plant is another advantage, which reduces the risk of fungal issues. Additionally, encouraging climbing results in a more natural and aesthetically pleasing display.
Providing Climbing Support
Providing appropriate support is essential for encouraging the ‘Jungle Boogie’ to climb. Moss poles and coco coir poles are suitable options, as their fibrous surfaces allow aerial roots to easily grip and penetrate. Stakes and trellises can also be used. When selecting a support, ensure it is sturdy enough to bear the plant’s weight and consider an extendable one for significant vertical growth.
To install the support, place it deep into the plant’s pot for stability. If repotting, insert the pole first, then position the plant, filling the pot with a well-draining soil mix. Gently guide the plant’s stem towards the support, using soft plant ties, garden velcro, or twine to loosely secure it. Avoid tying too tightly, as this can damage the stem.
To encourage aerial roots to adhere, keep the pole consistently moist, especially with moss or coir poles. Misting regularly helps create a humid environment that prompts the aerial roots to grow into the material. Initial guidance and periodic re-tying may be necessary as the plant grows. If the plant outgrows its current support, you can extend stackable poles or repot with a taller one.
Care Considerations for a Climbing Plant
Adjusting general care practices can further support the climbing habit of Philodendron ‘Jungle Boogie’. When growing on a moss or coir pole, increased humidity is beneficial, as it encourages aerial roots to attach and thrive. Placing a humidifier nearby, grouping plants, or using a pebble tray can help maintain humidity levels, ideally above 60%. Keeping the moss pole moist by misting or watering it when you water the plant is important for aerial root adhesion and nutrient absorption.
Watering frequency may need adjustment, as the substrate in the pole can dry out faster than the potting mix. While the plant’s soil should still be allowed to dry out about 50% between waterings to prevent root rot, the moss pole itself may require more frequent moistening. Some growers water the top of the moss pole, allowing water to slowly drip down and moisten both the pole and the potting mix. Adequate bright, indirect light is also important for all parts of the climbing plant, as well-lit conditions promote robust growth and larger leaves. Avoid direct sun exposure, which can scorch the leaves.
Selective pruning can help maintain the plant’s shape and encourage bushiness while it climbs. Removing any damaged or yellowing leaves allows the plant to direct energy toward healthy new growth. Pruning can also be done to manage the plant’s size or to encourage branching by cutting just above a leaf node.