The “Shalom Plant” is a commercial name for large-leaf, non-vining plants in the Philodendron genus, most often referring to the cultivar Philodendron ‘Imperial Green’. This hybrid is native to the humid, tropical regions of Central and South America, thriving beneath the forest canopy. Its popularity as an indoor plant comes from its ease of care and striking, deep-green foliage. The upright, self-heading growth habit distinguishes it from vining philodendrons, making it an excellent choice for a floor specimen that requires minimal structural support.
Establishing the Ideal Habitat
The Shalom Plant flourishes in a location that mimics the filtered light of its native jungle environment. Bright, indirect light is optimal for encouraging vigorous growth and maintaining deep leaf coloration. Position the plant a few feet away from a south- or west-facing window, or near an east-facing window. Direct, intense sunlight must be avoided, as the large, glossy leaves are highly susceptible to scorching. While the plant tolerates lower light, extended periods in dim areas result in slower growth, smaller leaves, and a leggy appearance.
This tropical plant prefers temperatures ranging between 65°F and 80°F (18°C–27°C) and should never be exposed to temperatures below 55°F. Avoid placing the Shalom Plant near exterior doors, air conditioning vents, or drafty windows, as this can cause temperature shock and leaf drop. Proximity to heat sources like radiators or fireplaces should also be avoided, as the resulting dry heat causes leaf edges to brown and curl.
As a rainforest species, the Shalom Plant thrives in high humidity levels, ideally between 40% and 70%. Grouping the plant with other houseplants helps create a localized pocket of higher humidity through collective transpiration. Alternatively, place the pot on a shallow tray filled with pebbles and water, ensuring the pot bottom does not touch the water, to boost localized moisture.
Essential Care Routines
Correct watering is the most important factor in the long-term health of this plant, as it is highly sensitive to both over- and under-watering. Deeply saturate the soil until water flows freely from the drainage holes. Then, allow the top one to two inches of the potting medium to dry out completely before watering again. This technique allows the roots to access both water and oxygen, preventing root rot.
The soil composition must be airy and well-draining to prevent waterlogging around the root system. A suitable potting mix should contain components like peat moss, perlite, or coarse orchid bark mixed with standard potting soil to ensure adequate aeration and drainage. Watering frequency should decrease during the cooler winter months when the plant uses less moisture.
Consistent feeding supports the production of the plant’s characteristic large foliage during the active growing season of spring and summer. Use a balanced, water-soluble liquid houseplant fertilizer, applied every four to six weeks. To prevent root burn, dilute the recommended strength of the fertilizer by 50%.
Fertilization should be completely withheld during the late fall and winter months. During this dormancy period, the plant’s metabolic activity slows, and it cannot properly utilize added nutrients. Feeding in winter can result in a buildup of mineral salts in the soil, which damages the roots over time.
Managing Growth and Common Issues
The Shalom Plant should be repotted only when it has become noticeably root-bound, a process typically necessary every one to two years. When repotting, select a new container that is only one size, or approximately two inches, wider in diameter than the current one. The best time for this intervention is during the late spring or early summer, allowing the plant to establish new roots quickly.
Pruning is a maintenance activity focused on removing old or damaged leaves to redirect the plant’s energy toward new growth. Use clean, sharp shears to cut away any yellowing or brown leaves at the base of the petiole, close to the main stem. Regularly wiping the large, broad foliage with a damp cloth is beneficial, as accumulated dust hinders light absorption and photosynthesis.
The Shalom Plant can be susceptible to common houseplant pests, including spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Regularly inspect the undersides of the leaves and the joints between the stem and petiole to detect infestations early. Minor issues can be managed by wiping the affected areas with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. For persistent pests, apply a horticultural oil, such as neem oil, following the product’s instructions.
The most common sign of a care issue is the yellowing of lower leaves, which frequently indicates overwatering. Adjusting the soil moisture routine is usually necessary in this case.