Philodendron Brasil
Philodendron hederaceum 'Brasil' · 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” dry
- Difficulty: Easy — as forgiving as pothos
- Pet-safe: ❌ No
Description
A trailing heartleaf philodendron whose cultivar ‘Brasil’ has gorgeous heart-shaped leaves splashed with lime-green and gold down the center (like a brushstroke), as if hand-painted. Fast, tolerant, and an excellent low-effort vine for a shelf or hanging pot. Each leaf’s variegation is unique.
Care
- Light: Tolerates low light but needs decent bright-indirect light to keep its variegation — too dark and new leaves revert to plain green.
- Water: Let the top 1–2 inches dry, then water and drain. Forgiving of occasional missed waterings; hates soggy soil.
- Soil & potting: Well-draining mix with drainage; happy to climb a small pole or trail.
- Humidity & temperature: Average humidity is fine; keep warm, no cold drafts.
- Feeding: Light feeding in spring–summer.
Propagation
Extremely easy from stem cuttings. Cut a 4–6” piece with at least one node (the little bump where a leaf/aerial root emerges); remove the lowest leaf and root the node in water or straight into moist soil. Roots in 2–4 weeks. Pinch tips to keep it bushy. See Propagation Basics.
Toxicity
Toxic to cats and dogs — insoluble calcium oxalates (oral irritation, drooling, vomiting). Source: ASPCA.
Common ailments, afflictions & pests
Click any item for how to identify and treat it.
- Root Rot — from overwatering; the usual cause of decline. See Watering & Root Health.
- Mealybugs, Spider Mites, Scale Insects — the standard aroid pests; check leaf undersides and joints.
- Fungus Gnats — from soil kept too wet.
- Losing its lime variegation / new leaves all green? Not a pest — give it more (indirect) light.
See also: Diagnose a Problem.