Philodendron 101

What is a Philodendron, you ask? It’s a good question! Among plant aficionados, Philodendron is a word you’ll hear frequently, so you’ve likely wondered what the fuss is about. The Philodendron genus is expansive, consisting of over 400 tropical plants, many of which are often grown for the indoors. 

Philodendrons are beloved for their pronounced and often heart-shaped leaves, as well as the sheer variety of plants in the genus. Some also feature aerial roots, and plants like the Philodendron Brasil grow in attractive tendrils, lending a jungle ethos to their environment.

Features like these made Philodendrons a mainstay of stylish homes in the 1970s, a decade during which houseplants enjoyed tremendous popularity (Earth Day was founded in 1970, after all!). Houseplants, including lush and leafy Philodendron varieties, were a way of bringing the outdoors in and communing with the beauty of nature.

The popularity of Philodendrons waned in the 1980s as trends shifted toward a more industrial and modern aesthetic, and in the 1990s, orchids reigned supreme. But with the advent of the Jungalow in 2017 and a still-swelling nostalgia for the ‘60s and ‘70s, Philodendrons are back to basking in the soft light of our affection. With their preference for medium to bright indirect light, they’re a perfect choice for a kitchen or well-lit bedroom. And they’re exceptionally versatile- we carry a number of Philodendrons here at Léon and George, and you may not even have realized that some are actually Philodendrons.

So shop around, because there’s a perfect Philodendron out there for every space— other than those that house pets (or babies, or just strange people) that insist on eating houseplants. The Philodendron genus, as a whole, is considered to be toxic. So indulge enthusiastically, but responsibly, in the many varieties of beautiful Philodendrons!

Philodendron Care

Wondering if Philodendrons are high maintenance? The short answer is no! These beauties are as easy to care for as they are to look at, just keep in mind a few simple things when caring for your Philodendron:

• Light: Philodendrons prefer bright indirect light, but can adjust to medium levels of light. They can survive with less than ideal light conditions, though they will grow “leggy” and spindly over time.

• Water: Philodendrons for the most part like to dry out in between waterings. That means watering just once a week at the most usually, or whenever the soil feels dry. They will also show you when they’re feeling thirsty, with leaves beginning to look limp and tired.

• Temperature: Philodendrons are for the most part tropical plants and they don’t like the cold. In the winter, keep them away from chilly windowpanes, and in the summer, away from cool air vents. Keep their environment’s temperature above 60 degrees and you should be fine!

Popular Philodendron Varieties

• Philodendron Brasil 

• Red Congo

• Little Hope or Philodendron Selloum

• Heart leaf Philodendron

• Philodendron Pink Princess

• Philodendron Birkin

Three popular philodendron varieties: the Red Congo, Little Hope, and Philodendron Brasil.

Philodendron Brasil

Often mistaken for its cousin, the Cascading Pothos, the Philodendron Brasil is a gorgeous, multi-colored take on the heart-leaf philodendron! The Brasil’s heart-shaped leaves are to die for, and they display beautiful color variegation. They like bright, indirect light best, but are flexible. 

Red Congo

One of our absolute favorites, the Red Congo Philodendron packs a dazzling sangria-colored punch! If you like colorful variegation, you’ll love the Red Congo-- its leaves range from vibrantly ruby (when they’re newly sprouted) to deep burgundy-emerald with age.

Little Hope or Philodendron Selloum

The Little Hope or Philodendron Selloum is a charming, classic Philodendron, with wonderfully curly foliage and rich green tonality. It’s also considered to be one of the best air-purifying plants out there (certified by NASA)! The Little Hope is happy with medium light or a shady environment— a shoo-in for a stylish bathroom! 

Heart leaf Philodendron

This plant is similar to the Philodendron Brasil, but with solid colored leaves.

Philodendron Pink Princess

Like its name implies, this Philodendron is pink (!), and quite hard to come by.

Philodendron Birkin

Another semi-rare Philodendron, the Birkin has white and green striped foliage.

Wondering about the Monstera Deliciosa, often referred to as a split-leaf philodendron? While this plant does indeed have beautiful split leaves, the Monstera is not a philodendron! This misleading name has caused quite a bit of confusion and misinformation. If you’d like to call it by one of its nicknames, go for Swiss Cheese Plant!

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Why are my Philodendron’s leaves turning yellow?

Philodendrons are so charming and vibrant. They often have variegated foliage and can grow in gorgeously long cascades, and they’re a beloved low-maintenance houseplant variety. But even with their easy-going temperament, they can exhibit yellowing foliage which can be troubling (in truth, all plants can!). Read on to learn why your Philodendron’s foliage may be yellowing, and for our quick tips to get it back on track!

Aging

You’ll find that most plants will exhibit some yellowing foliage from time to time. It happens when they shed old growth to concentrate on pushing out new leaves, and sometimes particularly young new leaves simply don’t thrive. This isn’t the result of a systemic health issue, just normal plant behavior. If your Philodendron is receiving appropriate care, appears healthy overall, but is showing some yellow leaves, they can just be pulled off gently or trimmed off using clean, sharp scissors or shears.

Overwatering

Philodendrons can be overwatered, and yellowing foliage is one of the most common signs of this issue. These plants should only be watered whenever their top two inches of soil are dry to the touch, rather than based on a timetable. To check your plant’s moisture, lift up a portion of its decorative moss and stick your finger two inches down into its soil. If the soil is dry, it’s time to water the plant. But if it is still moist, hold off! 

Incorrect Light

We all know that we need to drink more water when we’re out in the sun all day, and the same goes for our plants. The more light that your Philodendron receives, the faster it will use up the water in its soil. So check its moisture levels frequently, and adjust as necessary during the sunnier, warmer months of the year.

If your Philodendron is receiving too much light, this will affect its overall health and foliage. Remember that Philodendrons cannot tolerate direct, bright sunlight, as it will sunburn their leaves, a symptom which will exhibit itself as discoloration and sometimes, as yellowing.

A Lack of Humidity

In especially dry climates, Philodendrons can suffer from a lack of humidity. If your home is regularly dry, or an air conditioner or heater is often on, it is helpful to boost your Philodendron’s humidity by misting it a few times a week. 

More Support!

Yellowing foliage can be a completely normal aspect of all living plants, but if you are concerned that your plant is receiving all appropriate care and continues to display foliage issues, you can always contact our Plant Doctor service via your Léon & George account. Our Plant Doctors are here to help! 

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Philodendron Brasil

With jewel-tone variegated foliage and gentle tendrils, the Philodendron Brasil is a lush, easy-care houseplant with a tropical aesthetic.

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Photo courtesy Mod Musings

Incorporating hanging plants in your home decor has so many benefits: living greenery is the ultimate luscious accessory. It’s also scientifically proven to boost your environment by purifying the air, and to soothe stress! But living plants can also take up space that may be in short supply, and that’s when it’s time for hanging plants to shine! There are a few special characteristics that make some plant varieties perfect options for hanging, and we’ll go into those here, along with everything else you need to know before you buy a hanging plant! 

What varieties make perfect hanging plants?  

There are a variety of beautiful options to choose from when you’re ready to select a new hanging plant. Our favorites are plant varieties that grow in luxurious tendrils, like Cascading Pothos, Jade Pothos, Philodendron Brasil and Bird’s Nest Fern. Other popular varieties include the String of Pearls, or Curio rowleyanus, and Staghorn Fern. 

The Cascading Pothos is a gorgeous option for a stunning hanging plant.

How do you water a hanging plant?

The most convenient way to water your hanging plant will be through a method called bottom watering. Bottom watering is virtually foolproof, because the plant itself decides how much water to soak up, so the risk of overwatering is low- and it also won’t cause water to spill all over your floor, which is a risk if you’re watering your plant in its hanger.

To bottom water your plant, remove the plant from its hanging container, but keep it in its plastic nursery pot, which should have drainage holes in the bottom. Place the plant in a sink, bathtub or tray that has been filled with 1-2 inches of water. Allow your plant to sit in the water for 15 minutes, then take a look at its soil. If it is not yet moist to the touch, give it another 15 minutes. Once it is sufficiently moist, remove the plant from its bath and allow it to sit and drain for ten minutes or so before returning it to its hanging container.

Bottom watering is a great practice to get in the habit of, and it allows the plant to soak up exactly the amount of moisture that it needs. For a helpful tool that will alert you when your plant’s soil is dry and ready for water, consider a moisture meter.

Staghorn Ferns are a natural choice for a gorgeous hanging plant, and have luxuriously velvety leaves.

Hanging plants are great for homes with pets!

If you’re familiar with indoor plants, you probably already know that many of them have varying degrees of toxic compounds in their leaves or stems, which can be dangerous when ingested. It’s a bit inconvenient, we know, but it’s just evolution at work: many indoor plants are tropical varieties that evolved to protect themselves from being eaten by animals. This can make it tricky to choose the perfect plant for your home if you share your space with curious pets or kids. But hanging plants offer an amazing workaround! If you assess your space and hang your plant at a height out of reach of mischief, you can enjoy the beauty of an indoor plant that you might otherwise need to pass on due to its toxicity. 

Hanging plants love a good misting 

Most plant varieties that make great hanging plants are native to humid environments and appreciate a moist atmosphere. You can boost the humidity level of your hanging plant by misting it regularly (about two to three times a week) with plain water, or a mixture of water and a nutrient-rich foliar feed. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the bottle when diluting the foliar feed into your watering can. 

What kind of light will a hanging plant need?

The light requirements of your plant will vary by their species, so it is important to get to know the plant you’re buying before you hang it. Many indoor plants are tropical varieties that cannot withstand strong, direct light, which can scorch their leaves. (Essentially, direct light can cause a plant sunburn.) If you’re planning on hanging your new plant directly in a window, it’s important to be extra careful: the air next to windows can get quite hot from the sun’s reflection, and that combination of strong, direct light and heat is not appropriate for all plants.

Remember that your plant is a plant of its species first, and a hanging plant second. Its care will need to be tailored to its specific requirements. 

Who wouldn’t want a sweet tumble of heart-shaped leaves? The foliage of Philodendron Brasils grows into a waterfall effect over time, making this plant a perfect option for a hanging plant.

What kind of container should you use for a hanging plant?

You have more gorgeous options than ever when choosing a container to house your hanging plant. Why? Because hanging plants are in style, and the market knows it! So whether you are seeking a streamlined, modern cylinder hanger or an earthy macrame style, the perfect container is out there just waiting for you. With that in mind, it’s time to consider the less exciting, but still necessary, aspects of practicality. A good container for a hanging plant will not be extremely heavy, unless you have super-strong ceilings and know your way around mounting hardware and tools! It will also provide an even distribution of support for your plant and its plastic nursery pot, and will not obstruct your plant’s natural growth direction. 

Tips and tricks for hanging plants

There are plenty of ways to incorporate hanging plants in your home, even if you do not have the tools necessary to hang your container directly from your ceiling. Sun-loving plants can be hung from curtain rods, often to great effect! And if your ceilings or walls cannot support heavy weight, air plants are, well, light as air! They’re a wonderful option for a lightweight hanging plant because they do not require soil, which accounts for most of the weight of hanging plants. If you long for the look of hanging plants but are wary of the process of hanging them, trailing plant varieties like Pothos and many Philodendrons are gorgeous on elevated pedestals, and Staghorn Ferns are beautiful when mounted on wooden planks, then hung on walls just like a piece of art. Staghorn Ferns are also lightweight, because they do not require soil. 

Finally, experiment with your foliage! If your hanging plant features tendrils of trailing foliage, they can be secured to grow along walls or to spread out in lush waterfalls. Hanging plants have the potential to be incredibly sculptural, and you can encourage them to grow in specific directions or patterns. 

Where to place your hanging plant

If you already have a spot where you know you want to place your hanging plant, it’s simple: you just need to buy a plant variety that will be happy with the light and temperature that space receives. But if you’re on the other side of the equation: you know what plant you’d like to buy, but not where to hang it, there are a few things to consider. Use a light guide to determine the kind of light your space receives overall, and to identify the ideal area in your home for your new plant.

How to select a thriving, gorgeous hanging plant

There are always a few things to check up on as you shop to make sure you pick the perfect plant specimen for your home. Begin by carefully inspecting the plant’s overall foliage. Healthy plants for hanging will have vibrantly colored leaves and foliage, without significant yellowing leaves or discoloration. Additionally, the leaves, stems and trunks of healthy plants will have a firm texture and strong limbs, and will not appear floppy or exhausted. 

The definition of #hangingplant goals! Photo courtesy The Spruce.

Avoid purchasing your hanging plant from a garden center

It’s not just advisable: it is essential to buy any living plant from a premium grower. Garden centers and home improvement stores often appear to offer low prices and convenience, but we ultimately find that purchasing plants of a sub-par quality results in a higher cost and less convenient experience overall. There are a few reasons for this.  

Garden centers and home improvement stores tend to provide the same kind of care to all of their plants, regardless of the specific needs of the plants’ species. This means that many plants are overwatered during their time at these stores, and are often receiving light that’s inappropriate for their particular requirements. 

It is almost impossible to know the plant care routines that these businesses have in place from the outset, but it’s highly common for garden centers to use a one-size-fits-all approach with their plants, and although it saves time for these businesses, treating all plants in the same way is just not conducive to their health. 

Purchasing your new hanging plant from a premium grower will help ensure that it has been kept in appropriate light and watered correctly. There is also the issue of insects to consider. Insects have a habit of hopping from plant to plant, and funguses and viruses tend to spread- so if you cannot guarantee that the business you’re buying your new hanging plant from treats pests and plant diseases both prophylactically and as needed, there is a chance of bringing a pest or disease-ridden plant into your space, where those issues can (and often do!) spread to other plants in their vicinity. 

And finally, there is the issue of transport. Plants are resilient and strong, but no living plant loves the experience of transportation or significant environmental shifts. And there are so many factors at play when it comes to moving a plant from Point A to Point B: fluctuations in light, the risk of structural and foliage damage, and the risk of stress from temperature changes and forced air from A.Cs. Going to the extra mile to ensure the safe transit of your new hanging plant will pay dividends over time. By purchasing your plant from a business that offers doorstep delivery, and/or ships using packaging that is custom-engineered for plants, you can simply rest easy and enjoy the confidence of knowing that your plant has been amply protected and well cared for. 

Even the healthiest hanging plant can experience stress from time to time

IEven with the best care, stumbles can happen on any plant parenthood journey. The good news? Every plant purchased from Léon & George comes with lifelong access to our Plant Doctor service: a team of expert horticulturalists, here to offer assessments, tips and adjustments, and to generally support you as you care for your plants. There’s no catch! No fees are required to enjoy this service. Free, lifelong access to the Plant Doctor service is just one of the ways that we work together to support plant owners as we green up the world together.

We’ve compiled a list of common problems that common hanging plant varieties can face, as well as helpful guidance for assessing your plant’s health. Informed and supported plant parents are the key to our success! Click here to learn more about how to care for and grow your new hanging plant. 

The Leafy and Lovely Cascading Pothos from Léon & George

Simply the best: gorgeous, low-maintenance, with a cascading waterfall of vibrant foliage. The Cascading Pothos is ideal for hanging. Its easy care disposition and rapid growth meants that this Pothos variety is a gift that will keep on giving. Just give it light, love and a little water!

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Philodendron Brasil

Choosing a new statement plant can feel complicated, but by selecting a Philodendron variety, you’ve made a great first step! Lush and easy-going, Philodendrons are a popular low-maintenance plant family. And talk about a family: there are over 400 varieties in the Philodendron genus! So how to choose the best Philodendron for your home, and ensure it thrives for years to come? We’re glad you asked, because all the answers are right here.

Which Philodendron Variety Is Right For Me?

Ah, variety. It’s the spice of life- but can also be the root of indecision. Let’s simplify your options by focusing on a few gorgeous Philodendrons that all offer a unique aesthetic. The Little Hope is a classic, curly Philodendron that is emblematic of the famous Philodendron look. The Philodendron Brasil has the archetypal heart-shaped foliage that Philodendron lovers adore, and can grow in long, luxurious trails. For large statement plants that make an impact, both the Monstera Deliciosa and Red Congo offer iconic foliage and impressive size.

Red Congo

Philodendrons Love To Be Misted

Again we return to the tropics and the fact that Philodendrons thrive in humid climates. But not to worry: their ideal, moist biome is actually easy to replicate! Plan on providing any Philodendron with a fine mist of water up to 2-3 times a week to keep its foliage in pristine shape. Misting is fun, hard to over-do, and doesn’t require special products: misting with plain water is perfectly fine. For an additional boost of nutrients, you can mist with a foliar feed, which provides nourishment and minerals to the plant when applied directly to its leaves and stems.

Monstera Deliciosa

How To Place Your Philodendron

Because they’re flexible and forgiving plants, you have leeway in terms of Philodendron placement and can give styling extra consideration. Humidity-loving Philodendrons like the Philodendron Brasil and Little Hope are lush options for a bathroom or kitchen, and they’re equally dazzling in living spaces. Large Philodendrons, like Monstera Deliciosas and Red Congos, define organic luxury in living rooms and dining areas. Just make sure that the spot you choose receives a generous amount of indirect light, and is away from any harsh air from A.C. units, heaters or vents.

What’s An Epiphyte…And What Are Aerial Roots?

If you’ve been educating yourself on all things Philodendron, you’ve probably come across the term epiphyte and, if you’re not a Latin linguist, you might have wondered what the term means! Epiphyte is a term for any plant that grows on other plants or objects for extra physical support, and about one third of Philodendron plants are epiphytic. This characteristic is an evolutionary behavior, developed by the plant to help it attain more light. (The higher they grow, the closer they are to the sun!)

If you let an epiphytic Philodendron run wild and grow as it pleases without periodic pruning, it may very well trail along shelves and other plants. We think this makes for a gorgeous, natural look, and provides enthralling texture. But if wild trailing is not your cup of tea, you can always reign your Philodendron in by trimming it.

When it comes to aerial roots, which are commonly seen on epiphytic Philodendrons, we think that the best tact is not to trim them. Aerial roots soak up moisture from humid air and provide your plant with structural support as it grows. Aerial roots are commonly seen on Monstera Deliciosas, and they can be a bit confusing for new plant owners. In general, the safest way to approach aerial roots is to allow them to remain connected to your plant. Every part of your plant is there for a reason, after all! So instead of snipping off aerial roots, plan on tucking them into the soil if you do not want them to run wild. Gently tucking aerial roots back into your Philodendron’s pot and under the soil line will allow the roots to take in nutrients from the soil, and support the overall health of your plant. You can also utilize plant stakes and support ties to train your Philodendron to grow in a more compact shape. 

Philodendrons Prefer Medium to Bright Indirect Light

Cue the tropical vibes: Philodendrons are native to South America and the West Indies, where the forest floor receives dappled light and the environment enjoys high humidity. Although we’d be hard pressed to replicate the canopy of a rainforest in our home, Philodendrons don’t demand perfection. Just ensure that they receive ample indirect light, and are kept away from harsh, direct rays. Philodendrons can scorch in direct light.

Philodendron Brasil

How To Select The Right Size Of Philodendron

With all of the Philodendron varieties available, you have plenty of options no matter what size you’re looking for! Just keep in mind that, in prime conditions, Philodendrons can grow fast. During spring and summer, Philodendrons that receive ample light can grow as much as four inches a week! What can we say- they simply want to thrive! Keep this in mind if you are purchasing a Philodendron for a small space, like a shelf: trailing varieties will grow abundant cascades, and larger Philodendrons, like Monsteras and Red Congos, will stretch their canopies far and wide.

Monstera Deliciosa

Philodendrons Like Moist, But Not Soaked Soil

Although the watering requirements will differ with each Philodendron variety, a general rule of thumb is that Philodendrons prefer moist, but not soaked, soil. Consider their native habitat when you establish your watering routine. In tropical climates, Philodendrons receive some rain, but much of it is caught by the canopy of taller trees before it reaches them. Humidity in the air makes up a large portion of the overall moisture they receive, but their soil is rarely drenched. Aim for even moisture, and water away from the plant’s central trunks. Consider using a tool like a moisture meter do demystify the process- they are convenient, affordable and easy to read.

Little Hope

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Monstera Deliciosa

A Note On Toxicity In Philodendrons

Despite the fact that they are the most widely owned and loved family of houseplants, all Philodendron plants are considered to be toxic to some degree if consumed. There is some variation by plant, but Philodendrons fall in the category of “mildly to moderately toxic” across the board, so it’s important to keep any Philodendron out of reach of children or pets. If toxicity is a dealbreaker, you still have options!

How To Select A Healthy, Thriving Philodendron

As you shop for a new Philodendron, there are a few things to look out for to ensure that you choose the healthiest plant possible. Healthy Philodendrons will have firm leaves with vibrant coloring. Examine plants’ foliage thoroughly, and avoid purchasing a plant that has drooping or yellowing foliage. Additionally, steer away from plants that exhibit brown spots on their leaves. Brown spots can be a sign of fungal infections, which, while treatable, can cause an unnecessary headache. Take a look at the Philodendron’s soil- it should neither be soaking wet, nor bone dry.

Philodendron Brasil

Avoid Purchasing Your Philodendron From A Garden Center

Premium plants sourced from trusted growers are primed with all they need for a lifetime of good health. Responsible growers care for their plants according to their specific needs, treat and prevent pests responsibly and generally offer plants of a far higher quality than garden centers and home improvement stores.

Garden centers often have attractive price tags, but the quality of the plants offered reflects that price. Ensuring that your plant is in good health from the start will pay off with strong growth and consistent health over time.

As convenient as it sounds to pop over to a garden center and grab the nearest Philodendron, there are caveats to this approach. Transporting Philodendrons in your vehicle can result in structural damage from being jostled, as well as stress from your car’s A.C. or heat. So although you may be able to purchase a plant from the same place you’d buy other necessities, it is crucial to remember that living plants are delicate and can be stressed by transit.

Buy your plants from a premium supplier that offers doorstep delivery or packaging that is specifically engineered for the transport of plants. You’ll reap the benefit of their expertise, and avoid the negative effects that can result from improper care or transportation.

Even The Healthiest Philodendron Can Experience Stress

The source of plants’ beauty is the vitality of their health, and as with our own, plant health can have ups and downs. Even Philodendrons that receive immaculate care can experience stress from factors beyond your control. If your plant experiences a bump in the road or is exhibiting signs of ill health, it makes a world of difference to have a responsive source of support.

Every plant purchased from Léon & George includes lifetime access to our Plant Doctor service, comprised of a team of professional horticulture experts. Our Plant Doctors are available to assess your plant’s health and growth, provide tips and treatments, and offer guidance on your journey of growth. No fees are required: our Plant Doctor service is just one way that we support plant owners and ensure that every plant we sell is designed to thrive.

We’ve compiled a list of common problems that Philodendrons can face and helpful guidance for assessing your plant. Happy plant parents are the key to our success! Click here to learn more about how to resolve common issues with your Philodendron.

Shop Our Selection Of Gorgeous Philodendrons From Léon & George

Explore our selection of premium Philodendrons, from the charming Little Hope to the regal Red Congo and playful Monstera Deliciosa. Ideal for spaces that receive medium to bright indirect light, Philodendron varieties add instant organic texture and style to indoor spaces.

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Why are my Philodendron’s Leaves Curling?

Philodendrons are such gorgeous accent plants. With their playful heart-shaped and often variegated foliage and tendril-like vines, they have a lush and nostalgic aesthetic that blends well with any space. They’re an easy-care plant variety, which is great! But when they’re in less than optimal health, they can exhibit frustrating curling to their leaves. Read on to learn why, and what you can do about it!

Underwatering

Underwatering is definitely the number one cause of curling and dryness to Philodendron foliage. Be sure to water your plant whenever its topsoil is dry. You can gauge this by lifting off some of your plant’s decorative moss and sticking your finger about two inches down in its soil. If the top two inches of soil are dry, it’s time to water. You will likely find that the soil dries out about every seven to ten days, but this will vary from season to season, so it’s important to check the soil manually.

Lack of Moisture from Atmospheric Dryness

Philodendrons appreciate being misted, especially during the driest months of the year. If you notice curling foliage on your plant, mist it up to three times weekly. You can utilize a watering can that has a mister attachment, like this one here, or buy a mister locally from a nursery or home supply store. Additionally, air conditioners and heaters can both cause spaces to become dry, so be mindful of your plant’s placement in regard to appliances like these. It may need to be moved.

Cold Environment

Philodendrons are also sensitive to cold. There’s not much you can do about the temperature changes brought on by the seasons, but be sure to keep your plant in a space that has a consistent temperature. Move it away from anything that might cause drafts, which can get the plant cold. That means keeping your plant away from frequently opened and closed doors, air conditioners and fans.

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Philodendron Brasil

A lush and resilient tropical plant, the Philodendron Brasil features heart-shaped leaves, and is a low-maintenance plant variety with a flexible disposition and tolerance for low light and sporadic watering.

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PHILODENDRON BRASIL

AKA variegated heartleaf philodendron

The Philodendron Brasil offers a colorful twist on a classic houseplant and is surprisingly easy to care for. With heart-shaped leaves in different shades of green and yellow, this trailing plant earned its name thanks to the close resemblance to the Brazilian flag. Read on to learn everything you need to know about taking care of your Philodendron Brasil from the amount of water it needs, its light requirements, and how to overcome the common issues you might encounter along the way.

What type of light does the Philodendron Brasil need?

While it can survive in low light conditions your Brasil will show its variegation best in medium to bright indirect light. Be careful not to give them too much sun though, placing them in direct sunlight can cause leaf burn.

How to water your Philodendron Brasil

Water about once a week and allow the topsoil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, and note that your watering schedule may be less frequent during winter months.

Is the Philodendron Brasil a fast grower?

This plant is indeed considered a fast grower. You can either keep you Brasil in a hanging pot and let its leaves trail down or you can train it to grow upwards by using supports. Fertilize your Philodendron Brasil 1-2 times per month in the spring and summer with indoor plant food, or foliar feed year round.

Common problems with Philodendron Brasils

How to maintain a beautiful and healthy Philodendron Brasil

Philodendrons are known for being easy to care for, read on for tips on how to keep yours looking full and colorful over time.

Pruning Philodendrons

Remove dry or dead leaves all year round, but save any major pruning for the spring and summer months. When pruning your philodendron, use sharp, clean shears and cut any excessive growth at the base of the stem.

Cleaning Your Plant

Take each leaf between two soft tissue cloths and wipe off the top to reveal a healthy shine (also helps the plant soak in more light!).

How to repot your Philodendron

Houseplants grow much slower than they would in the wild. Depending on the size of your plant and the density of the roots, this is nice to do every 2-3 years to provide fresh nutrients and encourage new growth.

• When to repot - Philodendrons are known for their rapid growth. You’ll know when it’s time to repot yours when its roots are growing our of the pot.

• Pot sizing - if you want your plant to grow outwards more, find a nursery pot that’s 2” in diameter larger than the current pot. If you want your plant to stay the same height, you can reuse the same pot and simply change the soil.

• Get your hands dirty - spread out newspaper on the floor, remove the plant from the pot and shake off as much of the old soil as possible so that you have clean roots. Place the plant in the center of the pot, add new soil and pat down firmly. Water the soil thoroughly and place the plant in an area with bright indirect light. Your plant will take 2-4 weeks to settle from the shock and adjust to its new home.

How to propagate a Philodendron Brasil

If you’re interested in making more of your Philodendron Brasil either for yourself or a friend rest assured that propagating this plant is very easy. Though there are many ways to do this, water propagation is generally the easiest way to go about it. Follow these instructions to propagate your Philodendron Brasil:

• Select a stem to propagate - Using sharp, clean scissors or shears, cut an inch or two below a node(these are the areas where leaves attach to the vines).

• Place in water - Find a clear glass and fill it with water. Submerge only the stem of the vine, any leaves that are sitting in the water will rot!

• Place in a bright area and wait! - Avoid any direct sun. You may need to change the water out every few days to keep it fresh. It usually takes just a few days for the root to start growing.

• Transfer to soil - After a week or so, transfer to indoor potting soil. A small pot is best — no larger than 6” in diameter.

• Keep hydrated - During the first few weeks, or until your plant feels firmly rooted in its soil, regularly water and drain your Philodendron. The soil should be just barely moist to the touch at all times.

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Shop the Philodendron Brasil at leonandgeorge.com

Philodendron Brasil

An incredibly resilient tropical plant, this colorful variation of the heart-leaf philodendron is the perfect choice for beginners.

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