Philodendron pulchrum is aptly named, as “pulchrum” means “beautiful” in Latin. This striking tropical climber is admired for its lush, glossy, dark green leaves, often with a reddish tint underneath. It can exhibit either climbing or trailing growth, making it a versatile addition to indoor settings.
Philodendron Pulchrum Care
Light
Philodendron pulchrum thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural rainforest habitat. While it tolerates medium light, brighter, filtered sunlight promotes more vigorous growth. An east or west-facing window is ideal, providing gentle morning or late afternoon sun without harsh midday intensity. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves, causing yellowing or browning. Insufficient light results in leggy growth with elongated stems and pale, sparse leaves.
Watering
Allow the top 1 to 2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Water thoroughly until it drains from the pot’s bottom, promptly discarding any excess. Watering frequency varies weekly to bi-weekly, depending on environmental factors and season; reduce watering in cooler months. Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant.
Soil
A well-draining, airy, and chunky potting mix is important for Philodendron pulchrum to ensure root aeration and prevent waterlogging. This plant prefers slightly acidic soil (pH 5.0-6.5) for optimal nutrient uptake. An effective blend includes quality potting soil combined with amendments like perlite, orchid bark, or coco coir to enhance drainage and structure. Incorporating organic matter like compost enriches the soil with nutrients. A common recommendation is a mix of one part perlite to three parts soil, or equal parts tropical soil, perlite, and orchid bark.
Temperature and Humidity
Philodendron pulchrum thrives in warm indoor temperatures, ideally 18°C to 24°C (65°F to 75°F). Protect it from cold conditions below 15°C (55°F) and drafts, which cause stress. As a tropical plant, high humidity (at least 60%) is highly beneficial. Increase humidity by misting, using a humidifier, or placing the plant on a pebble tray (ensuring the pot doesn’t sit in water). Grouping plants together also creates a more humid microclimate.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season (spring and summer), Philodendron pulchrum benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20 or 3-3-3 NPK) is recommended, diluted to half strength and applied monthly. Nitrogen supports leafy growth, phosphorus aids root development, and potassium contributes to overall plant health. Reduce or cease fertilization during fall and winter when growth slows.
Repotting Philodendron Pulchrum
Repotting Philodendron pulchrum is necessary when the plant shows signs of being root-bound, such as roots emerging from drainage holes or circling within the pot, or if growth significantly slows. This typically occurs every two to three years, or when the existing soil is depleted. The best time to repot is during spring or early summer, as the plant is actively growing and recovers more easily.
When selecting a new container, choose one only 2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot, ensuring adequate drainage holes. Clay pots offer better aeration than plastic.
Before beginning, water the plant thoroughly the day before to minimize stress. Wear gloves, as the plant’s sap can be an irritant. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, carefully loosen any tightly packed roots, and trim away soft or diseased sections.
Place a layer of fresh, well-draining soil at the bottom of the new pot. Position the plant at the same depth it was previously, then backfill with more soil, gently tapping the pot to remove air pockets. After repotting, water thoroughly, allowing drainage, and maintain usual light and temperature conditions to reduce transplant shock.
Propagating Philodendron Pulchrum
Propagating Philodendron pulchrum is effectively done through stem cuttings, creating new plants from a mature specimen. The optimal time for propagation is during spring or summer, when the plant is in its active growth phase.
To take a cutting, select a healthy stem with several leaves and at least two nodes, which are points where leaves and roots emerge. Using clean, sharp pruning shears, make a 3 to 6-inch cut just below a node, at a 45-degree angle. Remove any lower leaves to expose the nodes, as new roots will develop from these areas.
Cuttings can be rooted in water by placing them in a jar with the nodes submerged, ensuring leaves remain above the waterline. Change the water every few days for freshness, and place the jar in bright, indirect light. Roots typically form within a few weeks, reaching 1 to 2 inches before the cutting is ready for planting in soil.
Alternatively, cuttings can be planted directly into a moist, well-draining potting mix, with the nodes buried beneath the soil surface. Keep the soil consistently moist until roots establish.
Common Problems and Solutions
Philodendron pulchrum can exhibit several issues, often stemming from environmental imbalances. Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering (younger/lower leaves) or underwatering (older foliage). Adjust your watering routine to ensure the top few inches of soil dry out between sessions. Too much direct light can also cause leaves to yellow or burn, necessitating a move to brighter, indirect light. Nutrient deficiency, especially nitrogen, might also lead to dull or yellowing leaves, addressed with appropriate fertilization.
Browning leaf tips or edges often signal low humidity; increase moisture through misting, humidifiers, or pebble trays. Both underwatering and overwatering can contribute to brown leaves, making proper soil moisture management important.
Stunted growth may point to a lack of nutrients, suggesting regular feeding, or insufficient light, requiring a brighter location. If severely root-bound, repotting into a slightly larger container can alleviate stunted growth.
Pests such as aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and scale can affect Philodendron pulchrum. Spider mites thrive in dry conditions, so adequate humidity helps deter them. Fungus gnats are attracted to overly moist soil, indicating a need to allow soil to dry more thoroughly and improve drainage. For infestations, wipe leaves with a damp cloth, apply insecticidal soap, or use neem oil. Inspect new plants for pests before introducing them to your collection.