Philodendron lacerum is a captivating houseplant known for its deeply lobed, ornamental leaves. Its foliage, often described as toothed or resembling an elephant’s ear, grows large. Its appeal stems from its distinctive appearance and relatively straightforward care, making it suitable for various indoor gardening enthusiasts. As a vining plant, it creates a lush, tropical display, especially with support.
Philodendron Lacerum Care
Light
Philodendron lacerum thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat under larger trees. Placing it near a window with filtered sunlight is ideal. Too much direct sun can lead to leaf burn and yellowing, while insufficient light may result in leggy growth with increased spacing between leaves. Consistent lighting prevents stress and maintains healthy foliage.
Watering
Philodendron lacerum prefers its soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot and yellowing leaves, while underwatering might cause leaves to droop and turn yellow or brown. Ensure excess water drains freely to prevent waterlogging.
Soil
A well-draining, aerated potting mix prevents root issues. An ideal mix includes components like peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark, providing moisture retention and drainage. This combination ensures rich organic matter and good airflow around the roots. A pot with drainage holes also prevents waterlogging.
Temperature and Humidity
Philodendron lacerum prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 18°C and 27°C (65°F and 80°F), and does not tolerate temperatures below 13°C (55°F). As a tropical plant, it benefits from higher humidity levels, ranging from 60% to 80%. Increase humidity with regular misting, grouping plants, or a pebble tray.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season (spring through fall), Philodendron lacerum benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer applied every two to six weeks is suitable. Diluting the fertilizer to half strength and applying it more frequently avoids over-fertilization. During dormant winter months, reduce or stop fertilizing.
Providing Support
As a vining philodendron, Philodendron lacerum naturally climbs and can reach significant heights. Providing a moss pole, trellis, or other support allows aerial roots to attach, promoting larger leaf development and healthier growth. This mimics the tree trunks it would climb, encouraging its natural growth. Without support, the plant may sprawl or appear leggy.
Propagating Philodendron Lacerum
Propagating Philodendron lacerum is achieved through stem cuttings. The best time to propagate is during the plant’s active growing season (spring or summer). Select a healthy stem and make a clean cut just below a leaf node, ensuring the cutting has at least one node and leaf.
Cuttings root in water or directly in a suitable potting mix. If rooting in water, place the cutting in a container with water, ensuring the node is submerged. Change the water periodically to keep it fresh. For soil propagation, plant the cutting in moist, well-draining soil, ensuring the node is below the surface. Roots develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be potted.
Repotting Philodendron Lacerum
Repotting Philodendron lacerum is necessary when the plant outgrows its current container, typically every one to three years. Signs include roots emerging from drainage holes, stunted growth, or the plant becoming root-bound. The ideal time for repotting is during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing, which helps it recover more quickly from the transplanting process.
When repotting, choose a new pot only slightly larger than the previous one. Prepare the new pot with fresh, well-draining soil. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, loosen circling roots, and place it in the new container at the same depth. After repotting, water thoroughly to settle the soil and reduce transplant shock.
Common Problems and Solutions
Philodendron lacerum can encounter common issues, often related to environmental factors. Yellowing leaves often signal improper watering (too much or too little); allowing the topsoil to dry before rewatering addresses this. Brown leaf tips often indicate low humidity or dry air, remedied by increasing ambient moisture.
Pests like spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and scale can affect Philodendron lacerum. Regularly inspecting the plant, especially leaf undersides, helps detect infestations early. For minor issues, wiping leaves with a damp cloth or using insecticidal soap manages these pests. Consistent care and appropriate environmental conditions contribute to a resilient plant.