The Philodendron Burle Marx (Philodendron burle-marxii) is a popular houseplant with distinctive, glossy, arrow-shaped green leaves. Native to Brazil, this tropical plant is named after landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, who pioneered tropical plant use in modern designs. It typically grows as a low-lying shrub or climbing vine, reaching 2-3 feet indoors. Its easy-going nature and attractive foliage make it a favored tropical choice.
Essential Burle Marx Care
Light
The Philodendron Burle Marx thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural dappled sunlight habitat. Placing it near a north-facing window or a few feet from an east or west-facing window, or with sheer curtains, provides ideal conditions. Direct, harsh sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves, causing discoloration or burning. Conversely, insufficient light can cause slowed growth and leggy growth.
Watering
Proper watering is important for a Burle Marx Philodendron, as both overwatering and underwatering cause issues. Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Water more frequently in spring and summer; reduce in fall and winter. Ensure complete drainage to prevent root rot.
Soil Requirements
The Philodendron Burle Marx requires a well-draining, airy, and nutrient-rich potting mix. Standard indoor potting soil compacts, causing root rot from poor drainage. An ideal mix includes perlite, orchid bark, or coco coir for aeration and drainage. A common blend is equal parts indoor potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark or coco coir, providing necessary chunky texture. Soil pH should be slightly acidic (5.0-6.5).
Temperature and Humidity
As a tropical plant, the Philodendron Burle Marx prefers warm and humid conditions. Optimal indoor temperatures are 65-80°F (18-27°C). Protect from cold (below 50°F/10°C) and drafts, which inhibit growth. While tolerating average household humidity, it thrives in 60-80% humidity. Increase humidity with a pebble tray, grouping plants, or a humidifier.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season in spring and summer, the Philodendron Burle Marx benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20 or 10-10-10), diluted to half strength, every 2-4 weeks. Water before fertilizing to prevent root burn. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows.
Pruning and Repotting
Pruning the Philodendron Burle Marx is not strictly necessary but can maintain its shape, size, or promote bushier growth. As a fast grower, pruning manages spread and encourages new branching. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to remove any yellowing, damaged, or leggy stems, ideally in spring or summer. Cut just above a leaf node to encourage new growth.
Repotting is generally needed when the plant becomes root-bound, indicated by roots circling the pot or growing from drainage holes. The best time to repot is during spring or early summer. When repotting, select a new pot 1-2 inches larger to avoid overwatering. Gently remove, loosen the root ball, and replant with fresh, well-draining soil.
Propagating Burle Marx
Propagating the Philodendron Burle Marx is straightforward, typically done through stem cuttings to create new plants or make the original bushier. To propagate:
- Select a healthy stem with 1-3 leaves and a few nodes.
- Cut just below a node using sterilized shears.
- Remove bottom leaves, exposing at least one node.
- Place cutting in water, submerging nodes. Keep in warm, bright, indirect light; change water weekly.
- Once roots are about an inch long (a few weeks), transplant to a small pot with well-draining soil.
- Alternatively, root cuttings directly in moist sphagnum moss or soil, ensuring high humidity.
Common Issues and Solutions
The Philodendron Burle Marx can encounter common issues. Yellowing leaves often signal improper watering (too much or too little) or insufficient light. Soggy soil can cause root rot, leading to yellowing and wilting; inspect roots and repot with fresh, well-draining soil. Brown leaf tips or edges indicate low humidity or inconsistent watering. Increasing humidity can alleviate this.
Leggy growth suggests insufficient light. Move to brighter, indirect light for more compact growth.
Common houseplant pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and fungus gnats can affect the Burle Marx Philodendron. Regularly inspect leaves, especially undersides, for early detection. If pests are found, isolate the plant and treat with horticultural sprays like neem oil.