Philodendron splendidum is a highly sought-after aroid, known for its unique, striking appearance. This hybrid plant results from a cross between Philodendron melanochrysum and Philodendron verrucosum. Its distinguishing features are velvety, dark green leaves, which can grow quite large, and prominent, contrasting pale green or yellowish veins that create a captivating pattern. This combination of texture and coloration makes it a splendid addition to any indoor plant collection.
Caring for Your Splendid Plant
Philodendron splendidum thrives with consistent, bright indirect light. Placing it near an east or west-facing window, where it receives gentle morning or late afternoon sun, is beneficial. Direct, intense sunlight, especially during midday, can scorch its delicate leaves, leading to brown patches. Insufficient light causes the plant to stretch, producing smaller, less vibrant leaves.
Allow the top one to two inches of potting mix to dry out before rewatering. This prevents root rot. When watering, thoroughly saturate the soil until water drains from the pot’s bottom. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent standing water around the roots, as consistent moisture without proper aeration causes root issues.
A well-draining, airy, and rich potting mix is important for Philodendron splendidum health. A suitable blend includes orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir or peat moss. This combination provides adequate moisture retention and excellent aeration, mimicking the loose, organic matter found in its natural habitat. Such a mix supports healthy root development by preventing compaction.
This plant originates from tropical environments, necessitating high humidity levels, ideally between 60% and 80%. Maintaining this humidity prevents brown, crispy leaf edges. Optimal temperatures range from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Increase humidity using a humidifier, a pebble tray, or by grouping it with other plants.
During its active growing season, spring and summer, Philodendron splendidum benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half or quarter strength, every two to four weeks. Reduce or cease fertilization during the cooler, dormant months of fall and winter. Over-fertilizing can lead to nutrient burn, manifesting as crispy leaf margins.
As a vining plant, Philodendron splendidum benefits from vertical support. A moss pole or trellis encourages larger leaf development and promotes a more upright growth habit. Aerial roots will attach to the support, allowing the plant to mature and display its full potential. Without support, the plant may sprawl, resulting in smaller leaves and a less robust appearance.
Propagating Splendid Philodendron
Propagating Philodendron splendidum is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem section with at least one node and two to three leaves. A node is the small bump on the stem where a leaf or aerial root emerges, containing the meristematic tissue necessary for new growth. Using clean, sharp pruning shears, make a cut just below a node.
After taking the cutting, you can root it in water, sphagnum moss, or a well-aerated potting mix. If rooting in water, place the cutting in a clear container, ensuring the node is submerged, and change the water every few days to prevent bacterial growth. For sphagnum moss, moisten the moss and gently wrap it around the node, placing it in a clear container or bag to maintain humidity. When rooting directly in soil, plant the cutting with the node buried, and keep the soil consistently moist.
Maintain high humidity and warm temperatures for successful rooting. Placing the cutting in a propagation box or covering it with a clear plastic bag creates a mini-greenhouse effect. Roots typically form within weeks to months, indicating establishment. Once a robust root system develops, the new plant can be transplanted into a larger pot.
Common Problems and Solutions
Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering. Allowing the soil to remain soggy deprives roots of oxygen, leading to stress. Ensure the potting mix drains well and adjust your watering schedule to allow the top layer of soil to dry before rewatering. Yellowing can also signal a nutrient deficiency; consider a balanced fertilizer if watering practices are correct.
Brown, crispy leaf edges are a symptom of low humidity or underwatering. Given this plant’s tropical origin, consistently dry air can cause the leaf tips to desiccate. Increase ambient humidity around the plant using a humidifier or pebble tray. If the soil is consistently dry, adjust your watering frequency to ensure the plant receives adequate moisture without becoming waterlogged.
Slow growth or smaller leaves can point to insufficient light or a lack of proper support. If the plant is not receiving enough bright indirect light, its growth will stagnate, and new leaves will be noticeably smaller. Move the plant to a brighter location. Without a moss pole or trellis to climb, the plant may not produce its characteristic large foliage.
Pest infestations can affect Philodendron splendidum, with spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips being potential culprits. Regularly inspect leaf undersides and stem crevices for pests. If detected, isolate the affected plant to prevent spread. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil, ensuring thorough coverage of all plant surfaces.