The Philodendron hastatum, known as the Silver Sword Philodendron, is a popular houseplant. Its distinctive silvery-blue, sword-shaped leaves develop an elongated, pointed form as they mature, adding a luminous quality to any indoor collection. Originating from Brazil’s tropical rainforests, this plant thrives in warm, humid, and shaded environments.
Silver Sword Philodendron Care
Light
The Silver Sword Philodendron thrives in bright, indirect light to maintain its distinctive foliage color. Placing it near an east or northeast-facing window, or slightly pulled back from a west or southwest-facing window, provides optimal conditions. Too much direct sunlight can lead to scorched leaves, while insufficient light may cause the plant to become leggy, with increased space between leaves, and its silvery sheen may diminish.
Watering
Water the Silver Sword Philodendron when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry. Allowing the soil to dry between waterings prevents root rot, to which this plant is susceptible if overwatered. During the active growing season in spring and summer, the plant requires more frequent watering, which should be reduced in cooler months when growth slows.
Soil
The Silver Sword Philodendron requires a well-draining, airy soil mix. An ideal aroid mix includes components like peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark, providing both moisture retention and drainage. A common blend is equal parts indoor potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark mix. This chunky substrate ensures proper root aeration.
Temperature and Humidity
This tropical plant prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F (18°C) and 80°F (27°C). Protect it from cold drafts and sudden temperature drops, as temperatures below 60°F (15°C) can cause stress. The Silver Sword Philodendron enjoys high humidity, with levels above 60% being beneficial. To increase humidity, use a humidifier, place the plant on a pebble tray with water, or group it with other plants.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season (spring and summer), the Silver Sword Philodendron benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, monthly or every two to four weeks. Reduce or stop fertilization during fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows. Over-fertilizing can lead to root burn, so follow dilution instructions.
Repotting Your Silver Sword Philodendron
Repot your Silver Sword Philodendron every one to three years, or when it becomes root-bound. Signs include roots growing out of drainage holes or circling the pot, and soil drying quickly. The best time to repot is during the active growing period (spring and summer). Select a pot only 1 to 2 inches wider than the previous one to prevent excess soil moisture. Use fresh, well-draining soil to provide space for root expansion.
Propagating Silver Sword Philodendron
Propagate the Silver Sword Philodendron using stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with at least two to three leaves and a few nodes, where roots develop. Make a cut just below a node with clean, sharp scissors or a knife. Remove any leaves that would be submerged to prevent rotting.
Cuttings can be rooted in water or sphagnum moss. For water rooting, place the cutting in a jar, ensuring at least one node is submerged, and change the water regularly. For sphagnum moss, nestle the cutting in damp moss, maintaining consistent moisture. Once roots are several inches long, plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix.
Common Problems and Solutions
Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure the plant is in well-draining soil and adjust watering to allow the soil to dry between waterings. Lower leaves turning yellow and dropping can also signal underwatering or insufficient light.
Browning leaf tips or edges are a symptom of low humidity. Increase humidity with a humidifier, pebble tray, or by grouping plants. Large, dry brown spots indicate leaf burn from too much direct sunlight. Stunted growth results from inadequate light or a root-bound condition.
Pest infestations, such as thrips, mealybugs, or spider mites, can affect the Silver Sword Philodendron. These pests are more prevalent in dry environments, so maintaining proper humidity helps deter them. Regularly inspect the plant for early detection and treatment, such as wiping leaves with a damp cloth.