Philodendron Bicolor is a beautiful plant that can be used to add color and life to any room. This article will provide you with all the information you need to care for Philodendron Bicolor, including tips on watering, fertilizing, and pruning.
What Does Philodendron Bicolor Look Like?
Philodendron bicolor origin is N. Peru. It is a tropical plant that features linear-oblong leaves with distinctive dark-green and light-green coloring. The plant’s stems are also green, and they can reach up to several inches in length. It typically blooms in the spring, producing small white flowers. This plant is relatively easy to care for, and it thrives in moist, well-drained soil. With proper care, this striking plant can add interest and color to any indoor space.
Philodendron Bicolor Other Features
Drought Tolerance
It is tolerant of drought conditions, making it a great choice for those who live in dry climates or experience periods of low rainfall.
Air Purification
It is also known to purify the air, making it a great plant to have in your home if you’re looking to improve indoor air quality.
Maintenance
It is a low-maintenance plant that doesn’t require much care in order to thrive. However, there are a few things you can do to ensure that your plant stays healthy and looks its best. You should place it in an area where it will receive plenty of indirect sunlight.
Toxicity
It is considered to be non-toxic to humans and animals. However, it is important to keep this plant out of reach of small children and pets, as the leaves can cause irritation if they are chewed or ingested.
Dormancy
This plant goes dormant in the winter, and during this time, it should be watered less frequently. Once spring arrives, you can resume regular watering. Keep in mind that this plant doesn’t like to be wet, so don’t overwater it.
Philodendron Bicolor Care
Philodendron Bicolor care involves watering, fertilizing and pruning. Water philodendrons when the top of the soil feels dry to the touch. Don’t let them sit in water, as this can lead to root rot. Fertilize every other week with a half-strength solution of all-purpose fertilizer during the growing season.
Quick Guide
| Soil | Moist, well-drained |
| Water | Keep soil moist, but not soggy |
| Light | Bright indirect light |
| Fertilizer | Monthly during the growing season |
| Pruning | Remove dead leaves as needed |
| Humidity | Between 40-50% |
| Temperature | Between 60-85 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Repotting | Every two to three years |
Soil
It thrives in moist, well-drained soil. It’s a good idea to use a potting mix that contains peat moss or coco coir, as these materials help to retain moisture. You can also add perlite or vermiculite to the potting mix to improve drainage.
Watering
Water this plant when the top of the soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure to water thoroughly, and allow the excess water to drain away. Don’t let the plant sit in water, as this can lead to root rot. If you’re not sure whether or not your plant needs water, it’s better to err on the side of caution and water it.
Fertilizing
Fertilize every other week with a half-strength solution of all-purpose fertilizer during the growing season. This will help to promote growth and keep the plant healthy. You can reduce fertilizing to once a month in the winter, as this is the plant’s dormant period.
Also, the best fertilizers for Philodendron Bicolor are liquid fertilizers as they are absorbed quickly by plants and are ideal for tropical plants like Philodendron Bicolor. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package, as too much fertilizer can be harmful to plants.
Pruning
Prune it as needed to remove damaged or diseased leaves, to shape the plant, or to encourage new growth. You can also prune to remove any leaves that are yellowing or browning. To do this, simply cut the leaf off at the base with a sharp knife or pruning shears.
Repotting
It should be potted in a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Be sure to use a pot with drainage holes to allow excess water to drain away. Every two to three years, you’ll need to repot the plant into a larger pot. This should be done in the spring before new growth begins.
Humidity
It prefers humidity levels between 40-50%. If the air in your home is too dry, you can increase the humidity by placing the plant on a pebble tray or using a humidifier. Keep an eye on the plant, and if you see the leaves begin to brown or turn yellow, it’s a sign that the air is too dry.
Temperature
It prefers temperatures between 60-85 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature drops below 50 degrees, it may go dormant. During this time, it should be watered less frequently.
Light
It prefers bright indirect light. If the plant is placed in direct sunlight, the leaves may scorch or burn. If the leaves are pale or yellow, this is an indication that it isn’t getting enough light. Move it to a brighter location.
How to Repot Philodendron Bicolor?
When repotting, be sure to use a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Be sure to use a pot with drainage holes to allow excess water to drain away. Every two to three years, you’ll need to repot the plant into a larger pot. This should be done in the spring before new growth begins.
To repot, simply remove the plant from its current pot and place it in the new one. Gently firm the soil around the roots and water the plant well. Allow the excess water to drain away before placing it in its final location. This plant can be sensitive to change, so it’s best to repot it in the evening to give it time to adjust to its new environment.
Philodendron Bicolor Propagation
Philodendron Bicolor can be propagated by stem cuttings. To do this, simply take a cutting that contains at least two leaves and a few inches of stem. Place the cutting in a pot of moistened potting mix and water well. Keep the soil moist, but not soggy, and place the pot in a bright location. The cutting should root within two to four weeks. Once it has rooted, you can water it and fertilize it as you would a mature plant.
Symptoms of Overwatering or Underwatering
If you think you may be overwatering or underwatering Philodendron Bicolor, there are a few things to look for.
- The leaves are wilting or drooping
- Yellowing or browning leaves
- Soggy or waterlogged soil
- The plant is growing more slowly than usual
Common Problems with Philodendron Bicolor
Philodendron Bicolor is susceptible to a few common problems, such as mealybugs, spider mites, and root rot.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white insects that feed on the sap of plants. They can cause yellowing or browning of the leaves, as well as stunted growth. If you see mealybugs on your plant, you can remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny spider-like creatures that feed on the sap of plants. They can cause yellowing or browning of the leaves, as well as stunted growth. If you see spider mites on your plant, you can remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. The roots of the plant will start to rot, causing the plant to wilt and die. If you think your plant has root rot, you can try to save it by replanting it in fresh, well-draining soil.
Pests and Diseases
Pests and diseases are not a big problem with philodendron bicolor or similar plants like Philodendron Caramel Marble. However, mealybugs can be a problem, especially if the plant is grown indoors. If you see mealybugs, simply wipe them off with a damp cloth or use insecticidal soap. Root rot can also be a problem if the plant is overwatered. If you think your plant has root rot, check the roots for discoloration or mushiness. If you see either of these, stop watering the plant and let the soil dry out completely. Once the soil is dry, you can start watering again.
Tips for Caring for Philodendron Bicolor Indoors
Here are a few tips for caring for Philodendron Bicolor indoors:
- Place the plant in a bright location, but out of direct sunlight.
- Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.
- Repot the plant every two to three years.
- Propagate the plant by stem cuttings.
Philodendron Bicolor FAQs
Yes, It is a rare plant. It is usually found in the wild growing as an epiphyte on trees. It is prized for its ornamental foliage and unique coloration. The leaves are a dark green. If you’re lucky enough to find one for sale, expect to pay a high price.
Yes, you can grow Philodendron Bicolor outdoors. It is a hardy plant and can withstand a fair amount of abuse. That said, it will do best if you provide it with a semi-shaded spot that receives plenty of indirect sunlight. Make sure to water it regularly and keep the soil moist at all times. Fertilize it once a month with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Q: What fertilizer is best for Philodendron Bicolor?
Answer: A: It is a versatile houseplant that is easy to care for. It does best in bright, indirect light and can be fertilized every other week with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Q: Can I grow Philodendron Bicolor outdoors?
Answer: Yes, you can grow Philodendron Bicolor outdoors. It is a hardy plant and can withstand a fair amount of abuse. That said, it will do best if you provide it with a semi-shaded spot that receives plenty of indirect sunlight. Make sure to water it regularly and keep the soil moist at all times. Fertilize it once a month with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely love my Philodendron Bicolor! It’s such a unique and beautiful plant that I can’t help but admire it every time I see it. If you’re looking for a new plant to add to your collection, we highly recommend this one!
