Plants with unusual foliage colors often capture the imagination of enthusiasts. The idea of a “blue philodendron” has gained significant interest, promising a unique visual appeal. This fascination stems from a desire to cultivate plants that stand out with extraordinary coloration.
Unveiling the “Blue” Myth
Truly blue philodendrons, with vibrant, pigment-based blue coloration, do not naturally exist. What people refer to as “blue philodendrons” are species exhibiting a striking silvery-blue or glaucous appearance. This unique coloration is not due to blue pigments within the leaves.
The blue-ish sheen comes from a waxy, powdery coating on the leaf surface, known as a glaucous bloom. This protective layer reflects light, giving the foliage a distinct silvery-blue or grey-green hue, rather than a true blue. Philodendron hastatum, commonly known as the ‘Silver Sword’ philodendron, is a prominent example. This plant was also previously classified as Thaumatophyllum hastatum or Philodendron glaucophyllum.
Understanding Silvery-Blue Philodendrons
The ‘Silver Sword’ philodendron (Philodendron hastatum) is sought after for its distinctive silvery-blue foliage. Leaves emerge with a pronounced silvery sheen, gradually developing a greener undertone as they mature. Mature leaves are often elongated and sword-shaped, contributing to its common name. Their smooth, leathery texture enhances the reflective quality of the surface.
This philodendron is a vining plant, using aerial roots to climb in its natural habitat. As a houseplant, it can grow quite large, with individual leaves reaching 18 to 24 inches or more under optimal conditions. Younger plants display a compact, bushy form, but will vine and seek support as they mature. Its robust growth habit makes it a striking addition to an indoor plant collection.
Caring for Silvery-Blue Philodendrons
Appropriate care ensures vibrant coloration and healthy growth.
Light
These plants thrive in bright, indirect light, which maintains their distinct silvery hue. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch leaves, leading to faded coloration or brown patches. Insufficient light may cause foliage to lose its unique sheen and become greener. Ideal conditions are near an east or north-facing window, or a few feet from a south or west-facing window.
Watering and Soil
Watering should be consistent but cautious, allowing the top one to two inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while prolonged dryness causes leaf crisping and stunted growth. The frequency of watering will depend on environmental factors such as light, temperature, and humidity. A well-draining, airy potting mix is essential, ideally containing components like perlite, orchid bark, and peat moss or coco coir for proper aeration and drainage.
Temperature, Humidity, and Support
Silvery-blue philodendrons prefer warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 80°F (18°C-27°C), and appreciate higher humidity levels (60% to 80%). Brown leaf tips often indicate insufficient humidity. Regular fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength supports vigorous growth. As climbing plants, they benefit from a moss pole or other support structure, which encourages larger leaf development and a more natural growth habit. Occasional pruning helps maintain shape and promotes bushier growth.
Common Misconceptions and Identification Tips
Beyond the “blue” myth, several other plants are sometimes confused with philodendrons due to similar appearances or common names. For instance, Epipremnum pinnatum ‘Baltic Blue’ is a popular aroid that, while not a philodendron, exhibits a deep green-blue coloration and is often mistaken for one. Certain Syngonium varieties or Hoya species might also cause confusion due to their unique leaf shapes or silvery markings. Accurate identification relies on understanding specific botanical characteristics rather than relying solely on common names or perceived coloration.
Distinguishing a true philodendron involves observing key anatomical features. Philodendrons typically have a cataphyll, a protective sheath that encloses new leaves as they emerge and then dries and falls off. They also produce aerial roots along their stems, which help them attach to surfaces and absorb moisture. The specific arrangement of leaves and the presence of these unique structures help differentiate a philodendron from other plant genera. Referring to botanical names ensures precise identification and avoids mislabeling.