The Philodendron ‘Little Apple’ is a popular houseplant, bringing lush greenery to indoor spaces. Its compact form and vibrant foliage make it a favored selection for both new and experienced plant enthusiasts. This robust plant offers an accessible entry into tropical indoor gardening due to its straightforward care requirements.
Understanding Your Philodendron Little Apple
Philodendron ‘Little Apple’ is recognized for its distinctive appearance. Its broad, pointed leaves are glossy and bright green when young, deepening to a crisp dark green as they mature. These elliptical leaves contribute to the plant’s compact, clumping growth habit, forming an upright, vase-shaped clump. It reaches a mature height and width of approximately 60 centimeters (about 24 inches). This cultivar is an improved hybrid, developed for its bright, “apple green” foliage, which gives the plant its name.
Essential Care for Thriving Growth
Light
Philodendron ‘Little Apple’ thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat. Place it near a window with filtered sunlight, such as through a sheer curtain. Direct sun exposure can scorch leaves, causing damage and discoloration. While it tolerates lower light for short periods, prolonged insufficient light results in slower growth and less vibrant foliage.
Water
Consistent watering is important for this plant. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out before watering again. Water thoroughly until liquid drains from the pot’s bottom, but do not let the plant sit in standing water to prevent root rot. During spring and summer, watering may be needed weekly. In winter, reduce frequency to every 10 days or so.
Soil
A well-draining, aerated potting mix is ideal for Philodendron ‘Little Apple’. An ideal blend includes organic matter, supporting both moisture retention and proper drainage. A quality houseplant potting mix provides nutrients and structure for healthy root development, preventing compaction and ensuring oxygen reaches the roots.
Temperature and Humidity
Philodendron ‘Little Apple’ prefers warm, stable temperatures, ideally between 18-27°C (65-80°F). Protect the plant from cold drafts, especially in winter, to maintain its health. While average household humidity is acceptable, higher levels (60-80%) encourage larger, more vigorous leaf growth. Misting the foliage or placing the pot on a pebble tray can increase localized humidity.
Fertilizer
During spring and summer, feed your Philodendron ‘Little Apple’ with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer. Apply monthly or every two weeks, diluted to half strength, to provide nutrients. Do not fertilize during dormant winter months when growth slows. Always ensure the soil is moist before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Yellowing leaves on a Philodendron ‘Little Apple’ can indicate over or under-watering, or insufficient light. Younger yellowing leaves often suggest overwatering, while older ones may point to underwatering. Browning leaf tips or curling leaves typically signal inadequate watering or low humidity. Leggy growth, with stretched stems and sparse foliage, usually means the plant needs more light.
Pests like aphids, fungus gnats, spider mites, mealybugs, and scale can affect Philodendron ‘Little Apple’. Regular inspection aids early detection. For aphids, a gentle spray of water with mild dish soap or neem oil can be effective. Fungus gnats, often a sign of overly moist soil, are managed by allowing the soil to dry more between waterings and using yellow sticky traps.
Propagation and Repotting
Propagating Philodendron ‘Little Apple’ is commonly done through stem cuttings. Take a cutting just below a leaf node, where new roots will emerge. Place the cutting in water or directly into a moist potting mix. Roots typically form within a few weeks, after which the new plantlet can be transplanted into its own pot.
Repotting is necessary when the plant outgrows its container, typically every one to two years. Signs include roots emerging from drainage holes, roots circling the pot, or soil drying out faster than usual. When repotting, choose a new pot only one to two inches larger in diameter than the old one to avoid excess soil retaining too much moisture. The best time for repotting is during spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing, aiding quick recovery.