Heartleaf Philodendron
Philodendron hederaceum · Araceae
- Light
- Low to bright-indirect
- Water
- Moderate
- Humidity
- Average
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pet-safe
- No
- Propagation
- Stem Cuttings
Common problems: Root RotMealybugsSpider MitesScale InsectsFungus Gnats
Quick facts
- Light: Low to bright indirect · Water: When top 1-2 inches dry
- Difficulty: Easy
- Pet-safe: No
Description
A classic trailing/climbing philodendron with soft heart-shaped leaves and slender vines. It is forgiving, fast to root, and calmer-looking than the brighter variegated cultivars.
Care
- Light: Tolerates low light, but grows fuller in bright indirect light.
- Water: Let the top 1-2 inches dry before watering. Avoid soggy soil.
- Soil & potting: Light, well-draining aroid mix.
- Humidity & temperature: Average humidity is fine; keep warm.
- Feeding: Light feeding spring-summer.
- Repotting / propagation: Pinch or prune to keep bushy; vines root easily.
Propagation
Very easy from stem cuttings. Cut below a node, remove the lowest leaf, and root the node in water or soil. A leaf without a node will not become a new plant. See Propagation Basics.
Toxicity
Toxic to cats and dogs due to insoluble calcium oxalates, causing oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting if chewed. Source: ASPCA.
Common ailments, afflictions & pests
Click any item for how to identify and treat it.
- Root Rot — yellow leaves and mushy stems from wet soil.
- Mealybugs — white cotton in nodes and leaf axils.
- Spider Mites — stippling and webbing in dry air.
- Scale Insects — brown bumps on stems.
- Fungus Gnats — soil staying too wet.
See also: Diagnose a Problem.