The Philodendron Golden Violin (Philodendron bipennifolium ‘Aurea’) is a striking houseplant known for its distinctive foliage. Its leaves emerge in a vibrant golden or neon yellow hue, gradually deepening to a rich green as they mature. The unique shape of these leaves, often described as resembling a violin or horsehead, features wide lobes at the base that taper to a point, adding an elegant element to any indoor space. This climbing philodendron is popular with both new and experienced plant enthusiasts.
Essential Care Requirements
Light
The Philodendron Golden Violin thrives in bright, indirect light conditions. Placing it within three feet of an unobstructed east or west-facing window is ideal. While it can tolerate lower light, insufficient light may cause the golden color of new growth to appear more green, and growth can become leggy. Conversely, direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Watering
Proper watering involves allowing the top one to two inches of the potting mix to dry before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot if the soil remains too wet. Underwatering can cause wilting, but the plant recovers quickly once hydrated. It is safer to err on the side of underwatering.
Soil Needs
Soil for the Philodendron Golden Violin should be well-draining, airy, and rich in organic matter. A chunky tropical houseplant mix is beneficial, allowing for proper aeration around the roots. Perlite, orchid bark, or coco coir can be added to a standard potting mix to improve drainage and structure. Philodendrons prefer a slightly acidic soil pH, between 5.0 and 6.0.
Temperature and Humidity
This tropical plant prefers warm temperatures, 75 to 85°F (24 to 29°C), and should be protected from cold drafts. While it can adapt to average household humidity levels, higher humidity is beneficial and can promote larger leaf growth. Practical methods to increase humidity include placing the plant near a humidifier, grouping it with other houseplants, or using a pebble tray. In particularly dry conditions, new leaves might struggle to unfurl and could appear deformed.
Fertilization
During the growing season (spring and summer), the Philodendron Golden Violin benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer applied monthly or every two weeks is suitable. Over-fertilization can lead to chemical buildup, burning the roots and damaging the plant. Nutrient deficiency may cause smaller leaves or yellowing of older foliage.
Repotting and Pruning
Repotting
Repotting is necessary every one to two years, or when the plant becomes root-bound or the soil degrades. The best time for repotting is during the active growing season, such as late spring or early summer. Choose a new pot only slightly larger than the previous one, ensuring adequate drainage holes. Gently remove the plant, inspect roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh, well-draining soil, minimizing root disturbance.
Pruning
Pruning helps maintain the plant’s shape, encourages bushier growth, and removes leggy stems or yellowing leaves. For vining philodendrons, pinching back the tips of vines can promote a fuller appearance. Always use clean, sharp shears or scissors to make cuts just above a leaf node, where new growth emerges. Removing dead, discolored, or damaged leaves redirects the plant’s energy towards healthy growth.
Propagation Methods
The Philodendron Golden Violin can be propagated through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with at least one or two nodes (small bumps where leaves and roots emerge). Make a clean cut below a node, ensuring the cutting has a few leaves attached.
The prepared cutting can be rooted in water or directly in a moist, well-draining growing medium. When rooting in water, submerge the node(s) in water, changing it every few days to prevent stagnation. For soil propagation, insert the cut end into a suitable potting mix, ensuring at least one node is buried. Providing warmth and consistent, indirect light will encourage root development. Rooting occurs within a few weeks, allowing the new plant to be cared for as a mature specimen.
Addressing Common Issues
Yellowing leaves
Yellowing leaves indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiencies. If the soil remains consistently wet, root rot can occur. Insufficient nutrients during the growing season can also cause leaves to yellow. Adjusting watering frequency and applying a balanced fertilizer can help resolve these issues.
Brown leaf tips
Brown leaf tips or edges point to low humidity or underwatering. Increasing humidity through misting or pebble trays can alleviate dry leaf tips. Ensuring consistent watering so the soil does not dry out completely between waterings will also prevent crispy edges.
Leggy growth
Leggy growth, characterized by long, stretched stems with sparse leaves, results from insufficient light as the plant reaches for more illumination. Moving the plant to a brighter location with indirect light will encourage more compact growth.
Pests
Common houseplant pests such as spider mites and mealybugs can affect Philodendron Golden Violin. Spider mites appear as tiny dots on leaves, sometimes with fine webbing, while mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like insects found in leaf axils. Isolating the affected plant and treating with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control these pests. Regularly wiping down leaves also helps prevent pest infestations and maintains leaf cleanliness for optimal photosynthesis.