The Philodendron ‘Golden Crocodile’ is a captivating houseplant known for its striking foliage. Its most distinctive feature is the unique texture of its leaves, which often resemble crocodile skin with their rugged surface and deeply toothed, jagged edges. New leaves emerge with a bronze tint, transitioning to a vibrant golden yellow, and some older leaves may mature to a lime green, creating a dynamic display of color. This plant’s eye-catching appearance makes it a popular choice for plant enthusiasts.
Caring for Golden Crocodile Philodendron
Light Needs
The Golden Crocodile Philodendron thrives in bright, indirect light. Placing it within three feet of an east or west-facing window provides ideal illumination. While this philodendron can tolerate lower light, its vibrant golden coloration is best maintained with ample indirect light. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the plant’s foliage. If natural light is insufficient, supplemental grow lights can meet its requirements.
Watering Practices
Proper watering is fundamental for the health of your Golden Crocodile Philodendron. Water the plant when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensuring good drainage is important.
Allowing the soil to dry out completely for extended periods can result in limp or wilted leaves. When watering, provide a thorough soak until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Always empty any excess water from the saucer to prevent the plant from sitting in standing water.
Soil Requirements
The Golden Crocodile Philodendron prefers a well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter. An ideal potting medium allows for proper aeration while retaining sufficient moisture for the plant’s roots. Components like perlite or bark chunks enhance drainage and prevent soil compaction. A mixture incorporating peat moss or coconut coir can also aid in moisture retention. A good mix includes all-purpose potting soil, orchid bark, perlite, charcoal, and worm castings.
Temperature and Humidity
This tropical plant thrives in temperatures ranging from 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (18-27°C) during the day. Keep the plant away from cold drafts or areas where temperatures consistently drop below 60°F (16°C), as this can stress the plant. The plant also appreciates average to above-average relative humidity, ideally above 50%. Increasing humidity can be achieved by misting the leaves, grouping plants, or using a humidifier or pebble tray.
Fertilizing Your Plant
Fertilizing the Golden Crocodile Philodendron supports its growth during its active season. Feed the plant every two to four weeks during spring and summer, using a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. During fall and winter, reduce frequency or cease fertilizing entirely. Avoid over-fertilization, as too many nutrients can cause leaf burn or stunt growth.
Pruning and Support
Pruning the Golden Crocodile Philodendron maintains its shape and removes old or damaged leaves. Spring, just before the growing season, is an ideal time for extensive pruning. Use clean, sharp shears and make cuts just above a leaf node to encourage new growth.
This philodendron can exhibit a vining or climbing habit. Providing a support structure, such as a moss pole or totem, encourages larger leaves and an upright growth pattern. It can be grown without support, but providing it allows the plant to reach its full potential.
Propagating Golden Crocodile Philodendron
Propagating the Golden Crocodile Philodendron is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem section that includes at least one or two nodes, which are the small bumps on the stem where leaves and roots emerge. Make a clean cut below a node using sharp, sterilized pruning shears. Allow the cutting to “callous” for a day or so before placing it in water or soil, which can help prevent rot.
For water propagation, place the cutting in a clear jar, ensuring the node is submerged while keeping the leaves out of the water. Change the water weekly to keep it fresh and prevent bacterial growth. Roots should begin to develop from the node within a few weeks. Once the roots are a few inches long, transfer the cutting to a suitable potting mix.
Alternatively, stem cuttings can be placed directly into a well-draining soil mix. Ensure at least one node is buried in the soil. Maintain consistent moisture in the soil, but avoid overwatering, and provide bright, indirect light. Covering it with a plastic bag can also aid in successful rooting. Regular inspection for new growth indicates successful propagation.
Addressing Common Golden Crocodile Issues
Common issues can affect the Golden Crocodile Philodendron, often signaled by changes in its foliage. Yellowing leaves, particularly older ones, can be a natural part of the plant’s aging process.
However, widespread yellowing often indicates overwatering, where soggy soil suffocates roots and impedes nutrient uptake. If the soil is excessively wet, allow it to dry out, and consider repotting into fresh, well-draining soil. Conversely, underwatering can also lead to yellowing, often accompanied by wilting. In such cases, a thorough watering should help rehydrate the plant.
Browning leaf tips or edges typically suggest low humidity. Increasing ambient humidity through misting, using a humidifier, or placing the plant near a pebble tray can mitigate this issue. Leggy growth, characterized by long stems with sparse leaves, usually points to insufficient light. Moving the plant to a location with brighter, indirect light will encourage more compact and bushier growth.
Pests like spider mites and mealybugs can infest Golden Crocodile Philodendrons, leading to discolored or damaged foliage. Regular inspection of the leaves, especially the undersides, helps detect pests early. If pests are present, they can be managed by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or treating with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ensuring proper air circulation can also help deter some pests.