Philodendron ‘Pluto’, often recognized as ‘Plato Green’, is a sought-after houseplant. Its striking appearance makes it a popular addition to indoor plant collections.
Identifying Philodendron ‘Pluto’
Philodendron ‘Pluto’ is distinguished by its foliage and growth habit. Leaves emerge coppery-pink to chartreuse and olive green. As they mature, they deepen into a rich, dark green or chocolatey olive tone, sometimes called “Choco Empress”. Mature leaves reach up to 12 inches long and 9 inches wide, featuring deeply lobed or serrated edges.
This plant exhibits a self-heading growth form, growing upright and bushy rather than extensively vining. While primarily upright, it can display some vining characteristics if supported. Leaf variegation patterns are often random.
Comprehensive Care Guide
Light
Philodendron ‘Pluto’ thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to a rainforest canopy. Place the plant near an east or west-facing window for gentle morning or late afternoon sun. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch leaves, causing browning. Insufficient light leads to leggy growth with elongated stems and sparse foliage.
Watering
Consistent moisture is important for Philodendron ‘Pluto’, but it dislikes soggy conditions. Water when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry. Water thoroughly until water drains from the pot bottom. Sitting in standing water causes root rot. During cooler winter months, reduce watering frequency.
Soil Requirements
Philodendron ‘Pluto’ requires a rich, loose, and well-draining potting mix. A suitable blend includes peat moss, perlite, bark chips, and coco coir, promoting aeration and moisture retention. This chunky, airy mix prevents dense soil, allowing strong root development and preventing waterlogging. The plant prefers a slightly acidic soil pH, typically between 5.0 and 6.5.
Temperature and Humidity
This tropical plant prefers warm indoor environments, ideally between 65°F and 85°F (18-29°C). It is sensitive to cold; temperatures below 55°F can cause damage. Keep it away from cold drafts or vents. Philodendron ‘Pluto’ appreciates moderate to high humidity, ideally between 40% and 80%. To increase humidity, mist leaves, place the pot on a pebble tray, or use a room humidifier.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season (spring through summer), Philodendron ‘Pluto’ benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 formula, every two to four weeks. Follow product instructions for dilution to avoid over-fertilization and leaf burn. As growth slows in fall and winter, reduce or cease fertilizer applications until spring. Flush the soil every four to six weeks with plain water to prevent mineral salt buildup.
Propagating Philodendron ‘Pluto’
Propagating Philodendron ‘Pluto’ is straightforward, most commonly through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem segment, three to six inches long. Each cutting should include at least one node, the small bump where new roots and leaves emerge.
Remove any leaves from the bottom portion of the stem that would be submerged or buried to prevent rot. Place the cutting in clean water, ensuring the node is submerged, or directly into a moist, well-draining potting mix. If rooting in water, change the water every few days to prevent bacterial growth. Placing the cutting in bright, indirect light encourages successful rooting, typically within a few weeks when new roots form.
Common Issues and Solutions
Common issues for Philodendron ‘Pluto’ often stem from environmental factors or care practices. Yellowing leaves can stem from overwatering or underwatering. If lower, older leaves turn yellow, it indicates overwatering. Yellowing with browning tips, especially on older leaves, can indicate underwatering. Too much direct sunlight can also cause leaves to yellow or develop bleached spots.
Drooping leaves suggest stress from inconsistent watering or inadequate humidity. Brown tips or edges indicate low humidity or insufficient watering. Over-fertilization can also lead to leaf burn and browning. Leggy plants with long spaces between leaves signal insufficient light.
Pest infestations, such as spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, or scale, affect Philodendron ‘Pluto’. These pests cause yellowing, stippling, or stunted growth. Regularly inspecting leaf undersides helps identify pests early. Treat affected plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Promptly addressing these problems maintains the plant’s health.