Philodendron polypodioides

Specifications:

Description:

The name Philodendron is derived from the Greek words 'philo' (love) and 'dendron' (tree). This classic plant is one of the most popular indoor plants.

Besides being easy to maintain, the Philodendron is an air purifier.

There are about 400 species of Philodendron, a member of the arum family (Araceae). Philodendron species originate mainly from the rainforests of South America and the Caribbean. The plant was first described in 1644, but did not receive an official name until 1829. The Philodendron family is a large one, with plants of different shapes, sizes and colours. Philodendrons can be divided into two basic categories: climbing and non-climbing plants. The non-climbing plants are sometimes found in nature high up in trees. If a seed germinates in the hollow of a high branch, the plant is able to supply itself with sufficient nutrients and water through its roots.

They are fairly fast growers that form a lot of leaves, especially in spring and summer. In one year, they can have twice as many leaves.

The Philodendron can be slightly poisonous to pets and small children, so make sure that they cannot reach the plant.

The Philodendron is particularly effective in helping to clean the air we breathe. The air-purifying abilities of a Philodendron are so strong that one Philodendron can purify a 10m² room. Of course, it is no problem to place several Philodendrons (or other plants) together in this area.

The Philodendron is sometimes confused with Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) plants, but you can tell the difference by the leaves. They are similar in shape, but the leaves of Pothos are usually variegated with yellow or white speckles.

The Philodendron polypodioides needs a temperature of 18 to 25°C during the day, which may drop to 10°C - 15°C at night. In the summer, when the plant is growing well, you can keep the soil slightly moist. Usually, water twice a week. Always check the soil to see if it is not too wet. If it is, then wait a little while before watering. At colder temperatures, the plant needs less water, otherwise it may start to rot. At a warm temperature, the water will dry up quicker. Give new water when the top layer of soil feels dry. If the leaves are brown and falling off, the plant is probably not getting enough water. Hanging leaves can mean that the plant is getting too much or too little water, but they should revive once the problem is solved.

Philodendrons polypodioides grow best in medium light and bright indirect sunlight. Older leaves will turn yellow naturally. However, if you see several yellow leaves at the same time, this may be an indication that the plant is getting too much direct sun. Philodendron tolerates lower light levels, but if longer stretches of stem grow between the leaves and the plant starts to look stretched, you may need to move the plant to a brighter location.

Philodendrons are tropical plants, so higher humidity will encourage lush growth and shiny foliage. It tolerates lower humidity levels, but watering the plant regularly will help it thrive. Brown leaf tips usually indicate that humidity levels are too low.