Bountiful Gardens

The Jungle Socialite: Philodendron

Philodendrons are native to the tropical Americas. They are generally split into two categories: Climbers (vining types that need a pole or shelf) and Non-Climbers (upright types that grow out from a central base). They are prized for their waxy foliage and their ability to communicate their needs clearly to their owners.

Suggested Placement in the Home

• The Bright Corner: They love dappled, indirect light. A spot near an East-facing window where they get gentle morning sun is perfect.

• The Bookshelf: Vining varieties (P. hederaceum) look spectacular trailing down from a high shelf.

• The Living Room Statement: Large, upright varieties like the 'Birkin' or 'Imperial Red' make excellent floor plants that act as living furniture.

Care & Maintenance

• Support System: For climbing varieties, giving them a moss pole or a cedar plank will actually result in larger, healthier leaves as the plant feels "secure."

• Leaf Hygiene: Like the Snake Plant and Devil's Ivy, their wide leaves catch dust. Wipe them with a damp cloth every few weeks to keep the stomata (breathing pores) clear.

• Pruning: If a vining Philodendron gets too "leggy," snip it back just above a leaf node to encourage bushier growth at the top.

The Essential Tip for Beginners

The "Eye" of the Node: If you want to propagate your Philodendron, look for the nodes (the little knuckles where the leaf joins the stem). Unlike some plants, a Philodendron leaf without a piece of the stem/node attached will never grow into a new plant—it might grow roots and stay alive for months as a single leaf, but it will never sprout new vines! Always include at least one "knuckle" in your cuttings.