The Philodendron 69686 is a unique plant popular among houseplant enthusiasts. Despite its scientific-sounding name, it’s a distinct variety within the Philodendron genus, known for its captivating appeal.
Understanding Philodendron 69686
Philodendron 69686 is a collection number, not a formally described species. It refers to a plant, possibly a natural hybrid, from the collection of Roberto Burle-Marx. The “69686” is an accession number assigned for research by Dr. Thomas B. Croat, indicating it lacks an official botanical name.
It features large, deeply lobed leaves up to 90 cm long. The foliage is a semi-glossy, rich medium green with a leathery surface. As the plant matures, the lobing deepens, creating a sculptural, tri-lobed appearance with a “pinched waist.” It has an upright, semi-climbing growth habit, suitable for support structures like moss poles.
Caring for Your Philodendron 69686
Light
Philodendron 69686 thrives in bright, indirect light conditions. While it can tolerate lower light, growth may slow, and the plant might become leggy with increased space between leaves. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the delicate leaves, leading to yellowing or brown spots. Placing it near an east-facing window where it receives morning sun followed by indirect light for the rest of the day can be beneficial.
Watering
Allow the top inch or two (2.5-5 cm) of soil to dry out before watering. This plant prefers consistently moist, but not waterlogged, soil to prevent root rot, which can cause leaves to yellow and drop. Use room temperature water, ideally no colder than 70°F (21°C), to avoid shocking the roots. Reduce watering frequency in winter when growth slows.
Soil and Potting
Philodendron 69686 thrives in a loose, well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter. A suitable blend includes peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite for drainage and aeration, possibly with coco coir, orchid bark, or charcoal. Repot every one to two years, or when root-bound, to provide adequate space. Choose a container about two inches wider and gently loosen roots before repotting.
Temperature and Humidity
This Philodendron prefers warm indoor temperatures, ideally between 60-85°F (15-29°C). It is sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature changes, which can stress the plant. As a tropical plant, Philodendron 69686 thrives in moderate to high humidity, with an ideal range between 40-80%. Low humidity can lead to browning leaf tips. To increase humidity, you can mist the plant regularly, use a pebble tray filled with water, or group it with other plants.
Feeding
Philodendron 69686 benefits from a regular feeding program during its active growing season, which typically runs from spring to fall. A balanced, all-purpose liquid houseplant fertilizer, applied once a month or every two to four weeks at half strength, is recommended. Over-fertilizing can lead to salt buildup and root damage, so avoid excessive application. During the winter months, when growth naturally slows, fertilization should be reduced or stopped.
Growing and Troubleshooting Philodendron 69686
Propagation
Propagating Philodendron 69686 can be done through stem cuttings in either water or soil. Select a healthy stem and make a clean cut just below a node, ensuring the cutting is about 4-6 inches long and has at least one node. For water propagation, place the cutting in a jar with water, ensuring nodes are submerged, and change the water regularly. For soil propagation, plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix after allowing the cut end to dry slightly, and keep the soil moist. Rooting hormone can be used to encourage root development.
Common Issues
Philodendron 69686 can encounter a few common problems, often related to environmental conditions. Yellowing leaves frequently indicate overwatering or a nutrient deficiency, while drooping leaves suggest either overwatering or underwatering, with the latter also causing crispy or browning leaf edges. Leggy growth, characterized by long spaces between leaves, suggests insufficient light. Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects, manageable with water sprays, neem oil, or insecticidal soap. Root rot is a risk in overly moist soil, emphasizing proper drainage and watering.