The Philodendron ‘Lime Fiddle’, also known as Philodendron ‘Golden Dragon’, is a favored houseplant. Its vibrant, neon-green foliage adds a lively accent to any indoor setting. The plant’s striking, uniquely shaped leaves contribute to its widespread appeal. Its ease of care makes it a popular choice for both new and experienced plant parents.
Getting to Know Your Philodendron Lime Fiddle
The Philodendron ‘Lime Fiddle’ has deeply lobed, pinnate leaves that are bright, sometimes mottled, lime-green. As leaves mature, their color deepens to a richer green, and their shape resembles a fiddle or dragon’s silhouette. This plant vines, naturally climbing and developing larger foliage with vertical support like a moss pole. A hybrid cultivar, the ‘Lime Fiddle’ originated in Thailand, likely from Philodendron bipennifolium.
Comprehensive Care Guide
Light Needs
Philodendron ‘Lime Fiddle’ thrives in bright, indirect light. An east or west-facing window provides ideal diffused light. Direct midday sun can scorch leaves, causing dry brown spots. While it tolerates brief low light, prolonged insufficient light leads to smaller, less vibrant leaves and slower growth. If natural light is limited, supplement with a grow light 30-40 cm away for 10-12 hours daily.
Watering Techniques
The Philodendron ‘Lime Fiddle’ prefers consistent moisture but is sensitive to waterlogging. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry between waterings. Water thoroughly until it drains from the pot’s bottom, ensuring no excess collects in the saucer. Proper drainage prevents root rot. Check soil every 3-5 days to maintain an appropriate watering schedule.
Ideal Soil Mix
A well-draining, airy potting mix that retains some moisture is suitable. An effective blend includes humus or light loam, coconut fiber or peat moss, perlite, and rotten bark or pumice. This mix supports healthy root growth and prevents compaction or waterlogging. Ensure the pot has drainage holes.
Temperature and Humidity
The Philodendron ‘Lime Fiddle’ thrives in temperatures from 18°C to 27°C (65°F to 85°F). Temperatures below 12-15°C cause stress, leading to drooping or yellowing leaves. Protect it from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, like those near heating vents or open windows. This tropical plant appreciates high humidity, ideally above 60%. In drier indoor conditions, low humidity can cause leaf margin burn or curling, which a humidifier or pebble tray can mitigate.
Fertilizing Schedule
During its active growing season (spring and summer), the Philodendron ‘Lime Fiddle’ benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks or twice a month for vigorous growth. Dilute fertilizer to half strength to avoid over-fertilization. Organic options like worm castings or fish manure can be incorporated every 1-2 months for sustained nutrient release. Reduce or cease fertilization during fall and winter dormancy.
Repotting and Growing New Plants
Repotting
Repot your Philodendron ‘Lime Fiddle’ when it becomes root-bound, typically every 1-2 years. Repotting provides fresh nutrients and space for root and foliage development. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to prevent excess moisture retention and root issues. Carefully remove the plant, gently loosen the root ball, and replant in fresh, well-draining soil, maintaining the previous soil level.
Propagating
Propagate Philodendron ‘Lime Fiddle’ using stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with at least one node and a few leaves, then cut below the node. Cuttings can root in water or directly in a moist, well-draining potting mix. For water rooting, change water regularly to prevent bacterial growth, then transfer to soil once roots are several inches long. For soil propagation, maintain consistent moisture and high humidity around the cutting.
Addressing Common Problems
Changes in your Philodendron ‘Lime Fiddle’ indicate issues. Yellowing leaves often signal overwatering or nutrient deficiency; adjust watering to allow soil to dry. Browning leaf tips or edges typically point to insufficient humidity or underwatering, requiring more moisture or consistent watering. Leggy growth (elongated stems with sparse foliage) indicates insufficient light; move the plant to a brighter, indirect light location for bushier growth.
Common pests like spider mites or mealybugs may affect the ‘Lime Fiddle’. Regularly inspect and treat infestations with organic methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Important Considerations
Like other Philodendrons, the ‘Lime Fiddle’ contains calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals can cause irritation if ingested by humans or pets, with symptoms including oral irritation, swelling, and digestive upset. Position your Philodendron ‘Lime Fiddle’ where it is inaccessible to children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion. After handling the plant, especially during repotting or propagation, wash your hands.