The “Jungle Fever Plant” refers to a captivating hybrid within the Philodendron genus, often recognized for its distinctive and deeply lobed foliage. This aroid cultivar displays elongated, narrow leaves that develop unique undulations and serrated edges as they mature. Its striking appearance makes it a favored choice among houseplant enthusiasts seeking a visually appealing addition to indoor spaces.
Caring for Your Jungle Fever Plant
Light
Jungle Fever plants thrive in bright, indirect light, mimicking their natural understory habitat. Place them near an east or north-facing window, or a few feet back from a south or west-facing window. Too much direct sun can scorch leaves, while insufficient light leads to leggy growth and smaller, less vibrant foliage.
Watering
Allow the top two to three inches of potting mix to dry out before watering thoroughly. This prevents roots from sitting in stagnant water, which can lead to root rot. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Overwatering is a more frequent cause of decline than underwatering, so it is better to err on the side of slightly dry soil.
Soil
Jungle Fever plants need a well-draining, airy potting mix rich in organic matter for strong root development. A suitable blend includes peat moss or coco coir, perlite, and orchid bark or coarse sand. This mixture allows for good airflow around the roots, preventing compaction and reducing the risk of fungal issues.
Temperature and Humidity
Jungle Fever plants prefer temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C), avoiding drops below 55°F (13°C). High humidity, ideally above 60%, benefits their foliage and overall vigor. Increase humidity with a pebble tray, a humidifier, or by grouping plants to create a localized humid microclimate.
Fertilizing
During spring and summer, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every two to four weeks. Reduce frequency in fall and winter as the plant’s growth slows. Over-fertilizing can lead to salt buildup, root burn, and leaf discoloration. Always water the plant before fertilizing to prevent root damage.
Propagating Jungle Fever Plant
Propagate Jungle Fever plants using stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem section with at least two to three nodes, which are the small bumps where leaves and roots emerge. Make a clean cut just below a node, ensuring the cutting includes at least one leaf. Cuttings can root in either water or a moist, well-draining potting mix.
For water rooting, place the cutting in a clear container with filtered water, ensuring at least one node is submerged. Change the water every few days to maintain freshness. For soil propagation, insert the cut end into a mix of perlite and peat moss, keeping the medium consistently moist. Roots typically form within a few weeks, allowing transplanting to its permanent home.
Common Issues and Solutions
Common issues include yellowing leaves, which may indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiencies, and browning leaf tips, often pointing to low humidity or inconsistent watering. Adjusting your watering schedule and increasing ambient humidity can often resolve these problems.
Pest infestations, such as spider mites and mealybugs, can affect these plants. Regularly inspect the undersides of leaves for early detection. If pests are present, wipe them away with a damp cloth or apply an insecticidal soap solution. For more severe infestations, a horticultural oil can be used for complete coverage.
Safety and Toxicity
Like many Philodendron species, the Jungle Fever plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can be irritating if ingested. It is toxic to pets and humans if consumed. Symptoms may include oral irritation, swelling of the mouth and throat, difficulty swallowing, and gastrointestinal upset. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets.