The Philodendron Gigas is a captivating vining aroid, sought after for its impressive size and distinctive velvety leaves. Native to Panama, this plant can become a focal point in any indoor space, transforming into a statement piece that showcases a lush tropical environment.
What Defines a Mature Philodendron Gigas
A mature Philodendron Gigas displays distinct physical characteristics. The most notable is the significant increase in leaf size; mature foliage can reach up to a foot indoors, and up to four feet in its native habitat. These leaves transition from a coppery green hue in youth to a deep, rich green with pale veins as they age, often exhibiting a velvety texture and a metallic sheen. The leaf shape also evolves, becoming more elongated or heart-shaped with maturity. While fenestrations are less common, the stems provide sturdy support for the large leaves. Strong aerial roots also develop, enabling the plant to climb.
Cultivating Maturity: Essential Care Practices
Encouraging a Philodendron Gigas to reach its mature form involves specific care practices that mimic its natural rainforest environment. Each aspect contributes to larger leaves and vigorous overall growth.
Light
Philodendron Gigas thrives in bright, indirect light, which fuels the production of its large leaves. An east-facing window is often ideal, or a spot near a south or west-facing window where light is filtered to prevent scorching. Insufficient light can lead to stunted growth, smaller, less vibrant leaves, and a leggy appearance. Direct sunlight can easily burn the delicate foliage.
Humidity
High humidity is a factor for the healthy development of Philodendron Gigas, especially for aerial root growth and unfurling large leaves. Native to tropical rainforests where humidity can exceed 80-90%, this plant prefers indoor humidity levels consistently above 60%. To increase humidity, consider using a room humidifier, placing the pot on a pebble tray, or grouping plants to create a more humid microclimate. While misting can help, it carries a risk of fungal or bacterial issues on the velvety leaves.
Watering
Consistent moisture without overwatering is important for the Philodendron Gigas to support its active growth and large leaves. Water when the top two inches of soil feel dry, or when a moisture meter reads 3-4. Allow the pot to drain completely after watering, as soggy soil can lead to root rot and yellowing leaves. During the growing season, the plant requires more frequent watering, which can be reduced during cooler months when growth slows.
Soil and Nutrients
The ideal soil for Philodendron Gigas is a chunky, well-draining mix that retains some moisture and is rich in organic matter. A suitable blend includes components like orchid bark, perlite, sphagnum moss, coco coir, and worm castings, providing good aeration and drainage while preventing waterlogging. Regular fertilization during the growing season provides the energy needed for large leaf development. A balanced liquid fertilizer, or one slightly higher in nitrogen, diluted to half strength and applied every 2-4 weeks, promotes robust growth.
Providing Support (Moss Pole/Trellis)
Providing vertical support, such as a moss pole or trellis, helps Philodendron Gigas reach its mature potential. As a climbing plant, it naturally seeks to ascend, and this climbing behavior directly influences leaf size. Attaching aerial roots to a support encourages the plant to produce larger leaves and develop thicker stems, mimicking its natural epiphytic growth. Ensure the support is sturdy and tall enough for significant vertical growth, and regularly secure new growth to the pole to facilitate aerial root attachment.
Maintaining a Mature Philodendron Gigas
Once a Philodendron Gigas has achieved maturity, ongoing care shifts to managing its size and ensuring continued health. The plant’s substantial presence requires consistent attention to maintain its form and vitality.
Pruning for Size and Shape
Pruning a mature Philodendron Gigas helps manage its size, encourages bushier growth, and removes old or damaged leaves. The best time for significant pruning is in late winter or early spring before the new growth spurt. Use clean, sharp tools and avoid removing more than one-third of the plant’s size at once to prevent stress. Removing yellowing or dead leaves at their base improves the plant’s appearance, directs energy towards healthy new growth, and enhances air circulation.
Repotting Considerations
Repotting a large, mature Philodendron Gigas is a less frequent but more challenging task due to its size. Signs it needs repotting include roots emerging from drainage holes, slowed growth, or the plant becoming root-bound. Repotting every 2-3 years, or annually for younger, fast-growing plants, is often sufficient. Select a container only 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one to prevent excess soil from retaining too much moisture, which can lead to issues. Handle the large plant gently to minimize root disturbance.
Refreshing Support
As a mature Philodendron Gigas continues its vertical growth, the climbing support will need to be extended or refreshed. This ensures the plant always has something to climb, which maintains large leaf size and robust stem development. Periodically assess the plant’s height relative to its support and add extensions as needed, or replace the entire support if it becomes unstable or too short. Regularly securing new stems to the support encourages continuous upward growth and aerial root attachment.
Common Challenges with Mature Philodendron Gigas
Mature Philodendron Gigas plants can encounter challenges due to their size and specific needs. Understanding these issues allows for timely intervention and continued plant health.
Reversion or Stunted Growth
A mature Philodendron Gigas might start producing smaller leaves or exhibit stunted growth if its environmental needs are not met. Common causes include insufficient light, inadequate climbing support, or inadequate nutrients. To address this, evaluate light exposure and consider moving the plant to a brighter, indirect light location, ensure the moss pole or trellis provides proper support, and maintain a consistent fertilization schedule during the growing season.
Legginess
Mature Philodendron Gigas plants can become leggy, characterized by elongated stems with sparse foliage, especially if they do not receive enough light or proper support. This stretching occurs as the plant attempts to reach for more light. Increasing the intensity of indirect light and ensuring the plant has a sturdy support to climb can help mitigate legginess. Pruning leggy stems can encourage bushier growth lower down the plant.
Pest Management on Large Plants
Identifying and treating pests on a large, dense Philodendron Gigas can be more challenging than on smaller plants. Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Regular inspection of the leaves, especially the undersides, is important. For large plants, a systematic approach or spot treatments with insecticidal soap or neem oil can be effective, ensuring all affected areas are thoroughly covered.
Yellowing/Browning Leaves
Yellowing or browning leaves on a mature Philodendron Gigas often indicate an imbalance in care. Overwatering is a frequent cause, leading to root rot and yellowing. Conversely, underwatering can cause leaves to yellow and brown, often starting at the tips. Low humidity can also lead to browning leaf edges, while nutrient deficiencies (especially nitrogen) or over-fertilization can cause discoloration. Proper diagnosis involves assessing watering habits, humidity levels, and recent fertilization.