The Philodendron ‘Lynette’ is a highly sought-after aroid cultivar celebrated for its distinctive foliage that adds a dramatic, architectural element to any indoor collection. This plant, often called Philodendron campii ‘Lynette’, is a self-heading variety that grows upright in a compact, bird’s-nest-like clump rather than vining. Its signature leaves are elongated and lance-shaped, characterized by prominent, deep ribbing and a glossy, deep green texture. This unique appearance has made it a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts and collectors.
Essential Environmental Needs
Providing the correct environment is essential for the robust growth of the Philodendron ‘Lynette’. This species thrives best in bright, filtered light, mimicking its natural habitat beneath the rainforest canopy. Position the plant near an east-facing window or several feet away from south or west-facing windows to provide ideal illumination. Direct sunlight must be avoided because harsh rays can easily scorch the delicate leaf tissue, resulting in permanent brown or bleached spots.
Maintaining a consistent temperature is also important, as this tropical plant prefers conditions between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Sudden temperature drops or exposure to cold air can stress the plant, causing foliage damage and slowing growth. Keep the plant away from cold drafts from exterior doors, windows, or air conditioning vents to maintain a stable, warm atmosphere.
This Philodendron requires elevated atmospheric moisture levels, ideally 60% or higher, to keep its ribbed leaves healthy. Low humidity often leads to the browning of leaf tips or edges. To increase moisture, place a room humidifier nearby or set the pot on a pebble tray partially filled with water, ensuring the pot bottom does not sit in the water. Grouping the plant with others also creates a localized, more humid microclimate.
Watering, Soil, and Feeding Regimens
Maintenance revolves around careful watering and providing a chunky, well-aerated potting medium. Use the “soak and dry” method: thoroughly water the plant until moisture drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry partially before the next application. Check the moisture level by inserting a finger into the soil, watering only when the top one to two inches feel completely dry.
Overwatering is the biggest threat, as persistently soggy soil quickly leads to fatal root rot. The potting mix must promote rapid drainage while retaining some moisture and providing air space for the roots. An ideal aroid mix consists of materials like coco coir or peat moss for water retention, blended with perlite, orchid bark, or charcoal for aeration and drainage.
The substrate should be slightly acidic, with a preferred pH range between 5.5 and 6.5, which aids in nutrient uptake. During the active growing period in spring and summer, apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer monthly. Dilute the fertilizer to about half the strength recommended on the product label to prevent salt buildup and avoid chemical burning of the roots. Suspend fertilizing entirely during the dormant winter months.
Propagation and Repotting Techniques
Propagation is typically achieved through stem cuttings, a reliable method for most Philodendron species. To take a cutting, use a clean, sharp implement to sever a piece of stem that includes at least one node. The node is the slightly swollen point where a leaf or aerial root emerges, and it contains the growth cells necessary for new roots to form.
The cutting can be placed in a glass of clean water, changed every few days, or situated directly into a rooting medium such as moist sphagnum moss or a light, porous soil mix. Once new roots reach about one inch in length, transition the cutting into a permanent pot with a standard aroid mix. Division is another option, involving gently separating offsets or sections of the root ball, ensuring each new plant has a healthy root system attached.
Repotting is necessary every one to two years, or when the plant becomes visibly root-bound, indicated by roots circling the pot or emerging from the drainage holes. When choosing a new container, select one that is only one size larger than the current pot, typically an increase of one to two inches in diameter. Repotting into an oversized container can cause the soil to remain wet for too long, increasing the risk of root rot.
Addressing Common Pests and Problems
While generally resilient, the Philodendron ‘Lynette’ can occasionally encounter common houseplant pests, primarily spider mites and mealybugs. Spider mites thrive in low humidity and appear as tiny specks or fine webbing on the undersides of leaves. Mealybugs look like small white, cottony masses typically found at leaf joints or along stems.
Upon discovery, isolate the affected plant immediately to prevent the spread of the infestation. Treatment involves wiping the foliage with a cloth dipped in insecticidal soap or a diluted neem oil solution, focusing on hidden crevices. Physical issues with the leaves indicate underlying cultural problems; for example, yellowing leaves suggest overwatering or nutrient deficiency. Brown, crispy leaf tips signal that the ambient humidity is too low. Maintaining a consistent environment and proper watering is the most effective preventative measure against pests and disease.