The Philodendron rousseaui, often called the Rousseau plant, is a captivating houseplant prized for its striking foliage and adaptable nature. Native to tropical South America, this vining plant brings a lush, exotic feel to indoor spaces.
Identifying the Rousseau Plant
The Rousseau plant is characterized by its distinctive large, elongated, and often deeply lobed leaves. These leaves typically display a vibrant green hue, though shade and texture can vary. The foliage often possesses a glossy finish. As a vining philodendron, it naturally seeks to climb, developing aerial roots that help it cling to supports. This growth habit means it can be trained to climb a moss pole or allowed to trail gracefully from a hanging planter.
Essential Care Requirements
Light
The Rousseau plant thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to its rainforest habitat. Placing it near an east or west-facing window is ideal, providing gentle morning or late afternoon sun without harsh midday intensity. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves, causing yellowing or brown spots. Conversely, insufficient light results in leggy growth and dull foliage. If natural light is limited, a full-spectrum grow light can supplement its needs, particularly in winter.
Watering
Water the Rousseau plant when the top inch or two of soil feels dry. A thorough watering allows water to drain from the pot’s bottom, preventing root rot. Both overwatering and underwatering can lead to drooping leaves. Watering frequency changes seasonally; plants require more water during the warmer growing season and less during cooler, dormant periods.
Humidity and Temperature
Originating from tropical environments, the Rousseau plant prefers warm, humid conditions. An ideal temperature range for philodendrons is 60-85°F (15-30°C). Temperatures below 55°F (12°C) can damage the plant, so protect it from cold drafts. While philodendrons tolerate average indoor humidity, they flourish in levels between 60-80%. To increase humidity, consider a room humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray, or regularly misting the foliage.
Soil and Nutrients
The Rousseau plant requires a well-draining, airy potting mix. A suitable mix includes components like peat moss or coco coir for moisture retention, and perlite or pumice to improve drainage and aeration. Incorporating bark chips can further enhance aeration and mimic its natural growing conditions.
During its active growing season, feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer about once a month. Diluting the fertilizer to half strength can prevent over-fertilization and root damage. During cooler, dormant months, reduce or cease fertilization.
Propagation and Repotting
Propagation
Propagating the Rousseau plant is straightforward using stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with several leaves and at least one node, the point where leaves or aerial roots emerge. Make a clean cut just below a node, ensuring the cutting is 3 to 6 inches long. Place the cutting in water, ensuring the node is submerged, and roots develop within a few weeks. Alternatively, plant cuttings directly into a moist, well-draining potting mix with the node buried.
Repotting
Repotting is needed every one to two years, or when the plant shows signs of being root-bound. Indicators include roots emerging from drainage holes, circling the soil surface, or a noticeable slowdown in growth. The best time to repot is during spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Choose a new pot only one to two inches larger in diameter than the current one. Carefully remove the plant, gently loosen any compacted roots, and replant it at the same depth in fresh, well-draining soil.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
The Rousseau plant can exhibit signs of distress indicating specific care issues. Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or root rot. Adjusting watering frequency and ensuring proper drainage can help resolve overwatering.
Brown leaf tips suggest low humidity or underwatering. Increasing ambient humidity or ensuring consistent soil moisture can alleviate this.
Leggy growth signals insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location or providing supplemental light can encourage denser growth.
Pest infestations, such as spider mites or mealybugs, can occur, signaled by sticky residue, webbing, or visible insects. Regular inspection and prompt treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can manage these issues.
Safety and Placement Considerations
The Rousseau plant, like other philodendrons, contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals can cause irritation, pain, and swelling in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract if ingested. While not life-threatening for humans, it can cause significant discomfort. For pets, ingestion can lead to symptoms such as drooling, oral pain, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Position your Rousseau plant in a location inaccessible to curious pets and young children. Consider elevated shelves, hanging planters, or rooms that can be closed off. Choosing a placement that avoids high-traffic areas can protect the plant from accidental damage. Maintaining consistent room temperatures and avoiding sudden temperature fluctuations will help the plant thrive.