The Tiger Tooth Philodendron is a popular houseplant known for its striking foliage. Its unique appearance and relatively straightforward care make it a sought-after addition for many indoor plant enthusiasts. It offers a touch of tropical elegance, making it an appealing choice for various interior styles.
Understanding Your Tiger Tooth Philodendron
The Tiger Tooth Philodendron, often referred to by its botanical name Philodendron ‘Tiger Tooth’, is recognized for its deeply lobed, serrated leaves that resemble a tiger’s tooth or a saw-toothed edge. This distinctive leaf shape gives the plant its common name. The foliage typically displays a rich, vibrant green hue.
This philodendron generally exhibits a vining or climbing growth habit. Its natural habitat in Central and South American rainforests means it thrives under the canopy of larger trees, adapting to filtered light conditions. The plant’s ability to develop aerial roots further supports its climbing nature, allowing it to attach to surfaces for support.
Essential Care for Tiger Tooth Philodendron
Light Requirements
Tiger Tooth Philodendron thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it near a bright window that avoids direct, harsh sunlight, which can scorch its leaves. While it tolerates medium light, brighter, filtered light promotes vigorous growth and pronounced leaf lobing. Insufficient light leads to smaller leaves and leggy growth.
Watering Practices
Watering is crucial for the Tiger Tooth Philodendron. The plant prefers consistently moist soil but never waterlogged, as it is susceptible to root rot. Allow the top one to two inches of soil to dry before watering thoroughly until water drains from the pot’s bottom. Check soil moisture with your finger; if the top layer feels dry, it is time to water. Frequency varies with environmental conditions and season.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, airy potting mix prevents waterlogging and promotes healthy root development. An ideal mix consists of equal parts potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark, providing moisture retention and proper drainage. The soil should be rich in organic matter and slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.0 and 6.0. Repot when the plant becomes root-bound or top-heavy, moving it to a container one size larger with good drainage.
Temperature and Humidity
This tropical plant thrives in warm, humid environments, preferring temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). The plant benefits from higher humidity, ideally between 50-70%. Low humidity causes browning leaf tips and edges. To increase humidity, use a humidifier, place the pot on a pebble tray with water, or group plants together. Avoid placing the plant near drafts or heating and air conditioning vents, which cause sudden temperature fluctuations and dry out foliage.
Fertilizing
Tiger Tooth Philodendrons benefit from regular fertilization during their active growing season, typically spring and summer. Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer every 4-6 weeks at half strength. Fertilize less frequently or suspend it during fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows.
Propagating Tiger Tooth Philodendron
Propagating the Tiger Tooth Philodendron is achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem section with at least one node, where new roots and growth emerge. Cuttings should be 4-6 inches long, with lower leaves removed to expose the nodes.
Cuttings can be rooted in water or directly in a moist potting mix. For water rooting, submerge the nodes, refreshing the water every few days. For soil propagation, plant the cutting in a well-draining mix, ensuring the node is covered. Place cuttings in bright, indirect light and maintain consistent moisture until new roots develop, typically in a few weeks. Once roots are several inches long, the new plant can be potted.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Yellowing leaves on a Tiger Tooth Philodendron often indicate overwatering, especially if accompanied by mushy stems, or potentially underwatering if the leaves also droop. Ensure the soil dries out adequately between waterings to prevent root rot. Nutrient deficiencies can also cause yellowing, suggesting a need for fertilization.
Browning leaf tips or edges typically point to low humidity or inconsistent watering. Increasing ambient humidity with a pebble tray or humidifier can alleviate this.
Leggy growth with smaller leaves usually signifies insufficient light. Relocating the plant to a brighter, indirect light source will encourage denser, healthier foliage.
Common houseplant pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and scale can affect Tiger Tooth Philodendrons. Inspect plants regularly for signs like fine webbing, sticky residue, or visible insects. Treatment often involves wiping leaves with a damp cloth, applying insecticidal soap, or using neem oil solutions. Persistent issues may require more targeted pest control methods.