The world of houseplants features diverse and captivating specimens, with aroids being particularly sought-after. Two such plants, the Philodendron joepii and the Philodendron 69686, often attract collectors due to their distinct appearances. While both belong to the expansive Philodendron genus, their unique characteristics can lead to confusion. This article aims to clarify the differences between these two intriguing plants, providing insights into their unique features and care requirements.
Philodendron joepii Overview
The Philodendron joepii is known for its distinctive leaf morphology. Discovered in 1991 in French Guiana by botanist Joep Moonen, it was initially mistaken for insect-damaged foliage due to its unusual shape, but was soon recognized as a unique species and named in his honor. Mature leaves are elongated, reaching up to 2 feet (60 cm) long and 1 foot (30 cm) wide. These glossy, dark green leaves feature unique tripartite lobing, often described as “rabbit ears” or a “spade” shape. The leaf blade narrows significantly in the middle, creating a constricted waist before widening at the base and tip, with two distinct upper lobes. This plant exhibits a vining growth habit, benefitting from support structures like moss poles to encourage larger leaf development as it climbs.
Philodendron 69686 Overview
The Philodendron 69686 is recognized by its numerical designation, an accession ID from the Missouri Botanical Garden. This indicates it is an undescribed species or natural hybrid with unconfirmed parentage. Its wild origin is still under study, likely French Guiana or the Brazilian rainforest. This Philodendron has deeply lobed leaves that mature into a tri-lobed or hourglass shape. The foliage is a rich green with a thick, leathery, semi-glossy texture. While often mistaken for P. joepii, P. 69686 lobes are broader and less constricted, with a more sculptural silhouette. The plant exhibits an upright to semi-climbing growth habit, and its leaves can grow quite large, sometimes reaching 2 feet in length, especially with proper support.
Key Distinctions
Distinguishing Philodendron joepii from Philodendron 69686 involves examining their mature leaf morphology, petiole characteristics, and growth patterns. While both are climbing aroids with lobed foliage, the specific details of these features differ.
Leaf Morphology
The most prominent difference lies in their leaf shape. Philodendron joepii leaves have a distinct, three-lobed appearance, often likened to a “rabbit’s ear,” “spade,” or boomerang. The lower lobe is wide, tapering significantly into a very narrow midsection, before flaring out into two smaller, pointed upper lobes that extend upwards and outwards. In contrast, Philodendron 69686 typically develops a deeply tri-lobed leaf that maintains a broader central area. The lobes of P. 69686 are often described as more sculptural or resembling a trident or butterfly shape, with smoother edges compared to the more dramatic constrictions of P. joepii.
Petiole Characteristics
The petioles, or leaf stalks, offer a point of differentiation. Philodendron joepii has elongated petioles, which help the plant stretch for light as an epiphyte in its natural habitat. These petioles can also exhibit a reddish hue on some specimens. While Philodendron 69686 petioles are substantial, their elongation is less pronounced than those of P. joepii.
Growth Habit
Both plants are vining Philodendrons that benefit from climbing support, but their growth habits vary. Philodendron joepii is an appressed climber with scandent stems, producing aerial roots to attach to surfaces. It has a slow to moderate growth rate, and mature leaves develop more fully with a moss pole or trellis. Philodendron 69686 also has an upright to semi-climbing habit and benefits from vertical support to encourage larger, more defined foliage. P. 69686 can be a vigorous grower under optimal conditions.
Mature Size
The mature size of the leaves and overall plant can vary. Philodendron joepii can produce leaves up to 2 feet long, and the plant can reach up to 10 feet tall in its natural habitat. Some mature specimens have leaves reaching three to four feet in length. Philodendron 69686 can also achieve substantial leaf size, with blades approximately 2 feet long on mature specimens. Indoors, P. 69686 typically reaches heights of 80-120 cm, growing taller with support.
Origin and Naming
Their origins and naming conventions provide a fundamental distinction. Philodendron joepii is a recognized species named after its discoverer, Joep Moonen, and was found in French Guiana. The name Philodendron 69686 is a collection number from the Missouri Botanical Garden. This indicates P. 69686 is an unnamed hybrid or undescribed species, with its precise natural origin still being investigated, though it is likely from the Brazilian rainforest or French Guiana.
Care Considerations
Both Philodendron joepii and Philodendron 69686 are tropical plants with similar basic care requirements, reflecting their natural rainforest habitats. Consistent conditions help both species thrive indoors.
Both plants prefer bright, indirect light, mimicking dappled sunlight under a forest canopy. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves. Optimal light can be provided near an east or north-facing window, or with sheer curtains on south or west-facing windows.
Watering should be consistent but cautious. Both Philodendrons prefer slightly moist, well-draining soil. Allow the top 1-2 inches (2-5 cm) of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Proper drainage is essential to avoid overwatering.
High humidity is beneficial for both species, ideally above 60%. In drier indoor environments, a humidifier, pebble tray, or grouping plants can increase ambient humidity. They thrive in warm temperatures, typically 65-85°F (18-29°C), and should be protected from cold drafts.
A well-draining, airy potting mix rich in organic matter is suitable. Common components include:
Peat moss
Perlite
Orchid bark
Coco chips
During the growing season (spring and summer), fertilize monthly with a balanced, diluted liquid houseplant fertilizer. As vining plants, both species benefit from climbing support like a moss pole or trellis, which encourages larger leaf development.
Rarity and Acquisition
Both Philodendron joepii and Philodendron 69686 are considered rare and highly sought-after plants within the horticultural community, particularly among aroid collectors. Their unique aesthetics and limited availability contribute to their desirability and higher price points compared to more common houseplants. Philodendron joepii is rare in the wild, with few individuals found, making it highly valued. Though propagated by cuttings, its slow to moderate growth rate limits market availability. It is typically found through specialized sellers, online communities, or rare plant auctions. Philodendron 69686 is also rare, its status as an undescribed species or natural hybrid adding to its mystique and appeal. Both command premium prices due to their unique features and limited supply, making them prized additions for collectors.