The Philodendron ‘Golden Crocodile’ is a striking hybrid cultivar, known for its distinctive foliage. Its large leaves boast a unique golden-yellow to lime-green hue, often developing a bronze tint when new, and are characterized by deeply toothed or serrated edges that resemble a crocodile’s skin. Its eye-catching appearance and relatively low-maintenance nature make it a popular choice for plant enthusiasts.
Golden Crocodile Philodendron Care
The Philodendron ‘Golden Crocodile’ thrives in bright, indirect light. Position the plant within three to four feet of an east or west-facing window, or several feet from a south-facing window. Insufficient light can dull its golden coloration or lead to yellowing leaves, while direct sunlight can scorch its foliage. Supplemental grow lights can be beneficial if natural light is limited.
Water the plant when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Ensure a thorough soak until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Overwatering can lead to root rot and yellowing leaves. Underwatering can cause leaves to droop and turn yellow or brown.
This philodendron prefers a well-draining, airy potting mix rich in organic matter. Components like peat moss or coco coir for moisture retention, combined with perlite, orchid bark, or pumice, enhance drainage and aeration. Adequate drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A chunky aroid mix works well.
The ‘Golden Crocodile’ Philodendron prefers warm indoor temperatures, ideally 60°F to 85°F (16-29°C). It also appreciates high humidity, with an optimal range of 40-60%. Low humidity can lead to leaves unfurling improperly or developing brown tips. To increase humidity, mist regularly, use a humidifier, or group it with other plants.
Fertilize your ‘Golden Crocodile’ Philodendron during its active growing season, typically spring and summer. A balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, applied monthly or every two weeks, is sufficient. During fall and winter, reduce or cease fertilization as growth slows. Over-fertilizing can be detrimental, potentially leading to leaf burn or stunted development.
Repotting Your Golden Crocodile
Repot your Philodendron ‘Golden Crocodile’ when it outgrows its container, indicated by roots emerging from drainage holes or slowed growth. The optimal time for repotting is during spring, before its most vigorous growth period. While it can tolerate being somewhat root-bound, regular repotting helps maintain plant vitality and encourages new growth.
When repotting, select a new pot one to two inches larger in diameter with adequate drainage holes. Prepare a fresh, well-draining potting mix. Carefully remove the plant from its old pot, gently loosen any compacted roots, and place it in the new container at the same depth as it was previously planted. Backfill with soil, lightly firming it around the roots, and water thoroughly to help the soil settle and reduce transplant shock.
Propagating Golden Crocodile Philodendron
Propagating the Philodendron ‘Golden Crocodile’ is achievable through stem cuttings, using either water or a soil medium. Select a healthy stem and take a cutting three to six inches long with at least two leaves. Make the cut just below a node, where roots will emerge, and remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting.
For water propagation, place the cutting in room-temperature water, ensuring the nodes are submerged. Change the water every few days to keep it fresh. Roots typically form within a few weeks to two months. For soil propagation, dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional) and insert it into a well-draining, moist potting mix. Keep propagated cuttings in bright, indirect light.
Common Golden Crocodile Issues
Pests and Diseases
The ‘Golden Crocodile’ Philodendron can encounter pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, thrips, whiteflies, scale insects, and fungus gnats. Regular inspection of leaves helps in early detection. Treat most pests with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot is often caused by overwatering or improper fertilization. Fungal issues like anthracnose can be managed by improving air circulation and removing affected leaves.
Leaf Discoloration
Leaf discoloration, particularly yellowing or browning, indicates underlying issues. Yellowing leaves often signal improper soil moisture (overwatering or underwatering), insufficient light, or nutrient deficiencies. Browning leaves typically point to low humidity, underwatering, or direct sun exposure. Brown, mushy leaves indicate root rot. Adjusting watering, light, and humidity addresses these concerns.