The Philodendron Melanochrysum x Verrucosum, known as ‘Philodendron Splendid’, is a captivating hybrid. It combines traits from its parent species, Philodendron Melanochrysum and Philodendron Verrucosum, both native to Ecuador’s rainforests. This hybrid is sought after by plant enthusiasts for its striking characteristics.
It features large, velvety, heart-shaped leaves with an iridescent sheen. Leaves are deep green with prominent, often contrasting, veins that can appear almost white or light green. The undersides often display a rich, deep maroon color. As a climbing philodendron, it vines and can reach impressive sizes, making it a dramatic addition to an indoor plant collection.
Essential Care Requirements
Light
Light is fundamental for the health and appearance of Philodendron Melanochrysum x Verrucosum. It thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural rainforest habitat. While it tolerates lower light, optimal growth and vibrant foliage occur with moderate to bright indirect light. North or east-facing windows are ideal, providing gentle morning or late afternoon sunlight without harsh direct rays.
Direct sunlight can scorch its delicate, velvety leaves, leading to brown patches or a bleached appearance. Conversely, insufficient light results in leggy growth with sparse, less vibrant foliage.
Watering
Proper watering is crucial for this philodendron hybrid. It prefers consistently moist, but not waterlogged, soil, allowing the top inch or two to dry out between waterings. Overwatering commonly leads to root rot, manifesting as yellowing leaves and an unhealthy plant. To prevent this, ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes, allowing excess water to flow out freely.
When watering, thoroughly drench the soil until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Discard any standing water in the saucer to prevent stagnant conditions and root issues. Underwatering causes drooping leaves, browning leaf tips, or a withered appearance, necessitating a prompt and thorough watering. Watering frequency varies with environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and pot size.
Humidity and Temperature
High humidity and warm temperatures are important for Philodendron Melanochrysum x Verrucosum, reflecting its tropical origins. Ideal humidity levels range between 60% and 80%, though it can acclimate to average household humidity. Maintaining higher humidity promotes faster growth and larger, healthier leaves. Misting, pebble trays, or humidifiers can increase ambient humidity, especially in drier indoor environments.
The plant thrives in a consistent temperature range, typically between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Temperatures towards the higher end of this range, combined with high humidity, tend to encourage more vigorous growth. It is sensitive to cold and should be protected from temperatures below 55°F (12°C), as well as cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, which can cause stress and foliage damage.
Soil and Potting
Philodendron Melanochrysum x Verrucosum requires a well-draining, airy potting mix that is rich in organic matter. A suitable blend often includes components such as orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir or peat moss, which ensures good aeration while retaining some moisture. This mix prevents waterlogging, crucial for root health.
When choosing a pot, ensure it has drainage holes to facilitate proper water flow. The size of the pot should allow for adequate root growth without being excessively large, which can lead to the soil staying wet for too long. Repotting is recommended every 1-2 years, typically in the spring, to refresh soil and provide more space as the plant grows. Providing a moss pole or other support structure is beneficial, as this climbing philodendron will attach its aerial roots and produce larger, more mature leaves as it climbs.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization during the active growing season supports robust growth. During spring and summer, fertilize the plant every two to four weeks with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer. Diluting the fertilizer to half its recommended strength helps prevent nutrient burn and ensures gentle feeding. Some growers also use a slow-release granular fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season.
Apply fertilizer to moist soil, ideally right after watering, to ensure proper absorption and minimize root damage. As growth naturally slows in the fall and winter months, reduce or discontinue fertilization. Over-fertilizing can lead to problems such as yellowing leaf edges or root burn, so adhering to recommended dosages is important.
Propagating Your Hybrid Philodendron
Propagating Philodendron Melanochrysum x Verrucosum from stem cuttings is effective. Select a healthy stem with at least one node, which is the bump on the stem where leaves and roots emerge. Make a clean cut about an inch below the node using sharp, sterilized pruning shears. Remove any leaves that would be submerged in water or rooting medium to prevent rot.
Stem cuttings can be rooted in water or sphagnum moss. For water propagation, place the cutting in a clear jar or glass, ensuring the node is fully submerged while keeping leaves above the water line. Change the water every few days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Roots typically begin to emerge within two to four weeks.
When using sphagnum moss, dampen the moss and place it in a clear container, then bury the node of the cutting in the moss. Creating a humid environment around the cutting, such as by covering the container with a plastic bag or dome, can significantly aid rooting. Keep the moss consistently moist but not soggy. Once roots are several inches long, the new plant can be carefully transferred to a well-draining potting mix.
Common Problems and Solutions
Philodendron Melanochrysum x Verrucosum can encounter issues. Yellowing leaves often indicate improper watering, with overwatering being the most frequent cause. If the soil is consistently wet, allow it to dry out more between waterings; conversely, if the soil is bone dry, a thorough watering is needed. Nutrient deficiencies or insufficient light can also contribute to yellowing foliage.
Browning leaf tips or edges often signal low humidity, salt buildup from fertilizers, or inconsistent watering. Increasing ambient humidity around the plant and periodically flushing the soil with plain water to remove excess salts can help. Stunted growth may indicate inadequate light, improper watering, or being root-bound. Adjusting light exposure and watering practices, or repotting, can resolve these issues.
Pests can affect this philodendron; spider mites are a common concern due to the plant’s velvety leaves. Other pests include mealybugs, aphids, and thrips. Regularly inspecting the plant, especially leaf undersides, helps detect infestations early. Treatment involves hosing down the plant, then applying insecticidal soap or neem oil to affected areas. Increasing humidity can also deter spider mites, as they prefer drier conditions.