The Philodendron ‘Narrow Escape’ is a captivating indoor plant, recognized by its unique, deeply lobed, and narrow leaves. This distinctive foliage, which can also appear with serrated or wavy edges and is sometimes called ‘Tiger Tooth’ or ‘Jungle Boogie’, makes it a popular choice for adding a tropical touch to indoor spaces. Its upright growth habit allows it to serve as a striking focal point, enhancing the aesthetic of any room.
Philodendron Narrow Escape Care
Light
Philodendron ‘Narrow Escape’ thrives in bright, indirect light conditions, mimicking its natural habitat beneath a tree canopy. Placing the plant 3 to 6 feet away from a bright window or in an east or west-facing window is ideal. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, while insufficient light may lead to stunted growth or smaller leaves.
Watering
Allow the top one to two inches or the top 25% of the soil to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly until excess water drains from the pot’s drainage holes, then promptly empty any standing water from the saucer to prevent root rot. Drooping or curled leaves can indicate under-watering, while yellowing leaves signal overwatering.
Soil
A well-draining, aerated potting mix rich in organic matter is suitable. A blend containing components like peat moss, perlite, coco coir, or orchid bark promotes good drainage and aeration, which helps prevent waterlogging while retaining some moisture. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil, with a pH range of 5.0 to 6.0.
Temperature and Humidity
Philodendron ‘Narrow Escape’ prefers warm environments, with an optimal temperature range between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Avoiding cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations is important. This plant appreciates higher humidity levels, ideally between 40% and 70%, reflecting its tropical origins. Methods to increase humidity include misting the leaves regularly, placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water, or using a room humidifier.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season in spring and summer, feed your Philodendron ‘Narrow Escape’ with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half or quarter strength to prevent nutrient burn. Reduce or cease fertilization during the fall and winter months when the plant’s growth naturally slows down.
Repotting Your Philodendron Narrow Escape
Repot your Philodendron ‘Narrow Escape’ when it becomes root-bound or top-heavy, every one to two years. Spring is the best time for repotting as the plant enters a period of active growth. Select a new pot that is one to two inches larger in diameter than the current one, ensuring it has drainage holes.
To repot, gently remove the plant from its old container, inspecting the roots for any signs of rot or damage. Place a layer of fresh, appropriate potting mix at the bottom of the new pot. Position the plant at the same depth it was previously, then backfill with soil, gently tapping the pot to settle the mix and remove air pockets.
Propagating Philodendron Narrow Escape
Propagating Philodendron ‘Narrow Escape’ is done through stem cuttings. To take a cutting, locate a mature stem with at least one leaf joint or node, and make a cut below this joint. Removing any lower leaves that would be submerged in water or soil can help prevent rot.
Cuttings can be rooted in water, where you can observe root development, or directly in a moist, well-draining potting mix. Once roots are established, which may take several weeks, the new plantlet can be transplanted into its own pot. Providing warmth and consistent moisture can encourage successful rooting.
Common Issues and Solutions
Pest infestations, such as spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids, can affect Philodendron ‘Narrow Escape’. Inspecting the plant regularly for signs of pests, like webbing or small insects, is important. If pests are present, they can be treated by wiping the leaves with rubbing alcohol or applying a diluted neem oil solution or insecticidal soap.