The Philodendron bipennifolium Aurea is an aroid known for its distinctive golden-yellow foliage and unique leaf shape. This cultivar stands out with vibrant lime-green to neon yellow leaves that deepen to greenish-yellow as they mature. Young plants have simple, ovate leaves that transform into deeply lobed, horse-head-shaped mature leaves, earning it the common name “Horsehead Philodendron.”
Philodendron Bipennifolium Aurea Care
Light
This philodendron thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it near a bright window, away from direct sun. Too much direct sunlight can scorch leaves and cause yellowing, while insufficient light leads to slower growth, leggy stems, and loss of vibrant golden variegation.
Water
Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out between waterings; water when the top one-third of the soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to yellowing leaves, drooping, and root rot. Underwatering can cause leaves to become crispy, wilt, or turn yellow with brown edges.
Soil
The Philodendron bipennifolium Aurea prefers a well-draining, airy, and rich potting mix that mimics its natural environment. A good blend includes components like perlite, orchid bark, and coco coir or peat moss to promote aeration and drainage. A slightly acidic pH balance, between 5.0 and 6.0, is beneficial for optimal growth. This chunky mix prevents dense soil and allows for healthy root development.
Temperature and Humidity
This tropical plant thrives in warmer temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is sensitive to cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F (10°C), which can cause leaves to droop or shed. High humidity levels, above 60%, are required. To increase humidity, use a humidifier, place the plant on a pebble tray, or group it with other plants.
Fertilizer
During its active growing season (spring and summer), the Philodendron bipennifolium Aurea benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 N-P-K formula, monthly at half the recommended strength. Over-fertilizing can lead to salt buildup, damaging roots and causing leaf tip burn or yellowing. Reduce or stop fertilizing entirely during fall and winter when growth slows.
Repotting Philodendron Bipennifolium Aurea
Repotting is necessary when the Philodendron bipennifolium Aurea outgrows its current container, every 1-3 years. Signs include roots circling the pot, emerging from drainage holes, or a noticeable slowdown in growth. Spring is the optimal time for repotting, as the plant is entering its active growing phase.
When repotting, select a new pot one to two inches larger in diameter than the previous one. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, loosening any root-bound sections, and inspect roots for rot or damage, trimming as needed.
Place a layer of fresh, well-draining potting mix at the bottom of the new pot. Position the plant at the same depth it was previously, and backfill with more soil, gently firming it around the roots. Water thoroughly after repotting to help settle the soil and minimize transplant shock.
Propagating Philodendron Bipennifolium Aurea
Stem cuttings are the most effective method for propagating Philodendron bipennifolium Aurea. The best time to take cuttings is during spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy stem with several leaves and at least one node, making a clean cut just below a node. Each cutting should be 4 to 6 inches long.
After taking the cutting, remove the lower leaves, ensuring only the nodes will be submerged. Cuttings can be rooted in water, changing the water every few days to keep it fresh, or directly in a suitable rooting medium like sphagnum moss or a well-draining soil mix with perlite or coco coir. Using rooting hormone can enhance success.
Place the cuttings in a warm spot with bright, indirect light; roots should begin to form within a few weeks. Once roots are at least an inch long, transfer the cuttings to soil.
Common Problems and Solutions
Loss of variegation in Philodendron bipennifolium Aurea indicates insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location with indirect sunlight can help restore its vibrant golden hues. Yellowing leaves are a sign of overwatering, where the soil remains too wet, leading to root issues. Allowing the soil to dry out more thoroughly between waterings and ensuring proper drainage can resolve this. Yellowing can also signal underwatering or nutrient deficiencies, requiring adjustments to watering frequency or balanced fertilizer application.
Browning leaf tips or edges are caused by low humidity, underwatering, or mineral buildup from water. Increasing ambient humidity through misting or humidifiers, consistent watering, and using filtered water can alleviate this.
Stunted growth may result from a lack of adequate light, nutrient deficiency, or the plant being root-bound. Addressing these factors through improved lighting, fertilization, or repotting can encourage new growth. Pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips can affect philodendrons. Signs include sticky residue, webbing, or visible insects; organic treatment methods such as neem oil or insecticidal soap can effectively manage these infestations.