Philodendron bonifaziae is a rare Philodendron species that is found only in Mexico. It was first discovered in the state of Veracruz in 1981 and has been slowly making its way to cultivation. This plant is a beautiful Philodendron with dark green leaves that have a wavy margin. The leaves are also slightly larger than those of most Philodendrons.
What Does Philodendron Bonifaziae Look Like?
Philodendron bonifaziae is a evergreen Philodendron that can grow to about 24”-36” (60-90 cm) tall. The leaves are dark green, glossy, wavy margin, and can range from 12”-14” (30-35 cm) long and about half as wide. This plant produces white flowers that bloom in the spring.
Where Does Philodendron Bonifaziae Grow Best?
This Philo is native to Mexico where it grows in the hot, humid, and rainy conditions of the rainforest. This Philodendron does best in partial shade to full shade.
Philodendron Bonifaziae Other Features
Drought Tolerance
This plant can tolerate short periods of drought, but it prefers to grow in moist soil.
Air Purification
It is an excellent plant for purifying the air. It can remove harmful toxins, such as formaldehyde, from the air.
Maintenance
It is a low-maintenance plant. It does not require much care to thrive. If you are a beginner, this plant is an excellent choice to start your collection.
Toxicity
This plant is toxic to pets and children if ingested. If you have pets or small children, it is best to keep this plant out of reach.
Dormancy
This plant is dormant in the winter. During this time, it does not need as much water or fertilizer. It is important to not over-water this plant during its dormant period.
Philodendron Bonifaziae Care
Philodendron bonifaziae care involves providing the plant with moist soil, partial shade to full shade, and regular fertilizer during the growing season. This Philodendron is also tolerant of short periods of drought.
Quick Guide
| Soil | A moist and well-draining soil |
| Light | Partial shade to full shade |
| Water | Water regularly, Once a week |
| Humidity | High humidity |
| Propagation | Propagated by stem cuttings |
| Temperature | Warm temperatures between 60°F-85°F |
| Fertilizer | Bimonthly |
| Pruning | Before growth season |
| Repotting | Every one to two years |
Soil Requirements
Philodendron Bonifaziae prefers moist, well-draining soil. This plant does not like to sit in wet soil. The best way to know if your Philodendron needs water is to feel the soil. If the top inch of soil is dry, it’s time to water your Philodendron.
Light Requirements
Philodendron Bonifaziae grows best in partial shade to full shade. This plant does not like direct sunlight. If you live in a hot climate, it’s best to grow this plant in an area that gets morning sun and afternoon shade.
Water
This plant likes to be kept moist, but not wet. Water your Philodendron once a week, or when the top inch of soil is dry. This plant does not like to sit in wet soil.
Fertilizer Requirements
This plant should be fertilized once a month with a balanced fertilizer. You can also use a slow-release fertilizer. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer label.
Temperature Requirements
It prefers warm temperatures between 60°F-85°F (15°C-29°C). This plant does not like cold temperatures. If you live in a cold climate, it’s best to grow Philodendron bonifaziae as a houseplant.
Humidity
This philodendron prefers high humidity. You can also grow this plant in a terrarium or greenhouse if you live in a dry climate. Common ways to increase humidity are to group plants together, use a humidity tray or pebble tray, or use a humidifier.
Pruning
It should be pruned before the growth season. This plant can be pruned to keep it a manageable size. It can also be pruned to encourage new growth. Ways for pruning are to cut back leggy growth, shape the plant, or remove dead or dying leaves.
Repotting
This plant should be repotted every one to two years. Be sure to use a pot that has drainage holes. This plant does not like to sit in wet soil.
How to Repot Philodendron Bonifaziae
This plant should be repotted every two to three years. When repotting, use a pot that is only one size larger than the current pot. Be sure to use well-draining soil. While repotting follow these steps:
- Carefully remove the plant from its current pot.
- Gently loosen the roots.
- Place it in the new pot.
- Fill in with well-draining soil.
- Water the soil thoroughly.
Philodendron bonifaziae can be a bit tricky to repot. It’s best to wait until the plant is actively growing. This will help ensure that the plant doesn’t go into shock.
Philodendron Bonifaziae Propagation
Philodendron bonifaziae can be propagated by stem cuttings. Cut a piece of stem that has at least two leaves. Place the cutting in moist, well-draining soil. Be sure to keep the soil moist. The cutting should root in four to six weeks.
- While Propagating follow these steps:
- Cut a piece of stem that has at least two leaves.
- Place the cutting in moist, well-draining soil.
- Be sure to keep the soil moist.
- The cutting should root in four to six weeks.
Symptoms of Overwatering or Underwatering
Just like Philodendron corrugatum, Philodendron bonifaziae is also a very resilient plant. However, it can be susceptible to overwatering and underwatering. These are the most common problems with this plant.
Overwatering
- Leaves will turn yellow.
- Leaves will drop off.
- Stems will rot.
If you think you are overwatering your plant, the best course of action is to let the plant dry out completely before watering again. It’s also a good idea to check the drainage of your pot. This plant does not like to sit in wet soil.
Underwatering
- Leaves will turn brown and crispy.
- Leaves will drop off.
If you think you are underwatering this plant, the best course of action is to water it thoroughly. Be sure to check the drainage of your pot.
Common Problems and Their Solutions
It is a very resilient plant. However, there are a few common problems that you may encounter.
Leaves Turning Yellow
The leaves will turn yellow if the plant is overwatered. The best course of action is to let the plant dry out completely before watering again.
Leaves Turning Brown and Crispy
The leaves will turn brown and crispy if the plant is underwatering. The best course of action is to water the plant thoroughly.
Stems Rotting
The stems of this plant will rot if the plant is overwatered. The best course of action is to let the plant dry out completely before watering again. It’s also a good idea to check the drainage of your pot. This plant does not like to sit in wet soil.
Pests and Diseases
Pests
This Philo is susceptible to mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. The best course of action is to remove the pests by hand. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of the pests.
Diseases
This plant is susceptible to root rot and leaf spot. The best course of action is to remove the affected leaves and stems. You can also use a fungicide to prevent the disease from spreading.
Tips for Caring for Philodendron Bonifaziae Indoors
There are a few things you can do to make sure this plant thrives indoors.
- Place the plant in an area with bright, indirect light.
- Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Be sure to use well-draining soil.
- Repot the plant every two to three years.
- Propagate by stem cuttings.
FAQs About Philodendron Bonifaziae
Yes, this plant is quite rare. It is native to Mexico and was only recently described by science in 2012. It’s a beautiful plant that is unfortunately difficult to find for sale. If you happen to see one for sale, we would highly recommend scooping it up!
No, this plant cannot tolerate cold temperatures. It is a tropical plant that grows best in warm, humid environments. When exposed to cold temperatures, its leaves will turn black and its stems will die.
Yes, this plant is toxic to pets. The leaves and stems of this plant contain insoluble calcium oxalates that can cause irritation and swelling of the mouth and lips, difficulty breathing, and vomiting. Pets that ingest this plant may also experience kidney failure.
Yes, this plant is toxic to humans. The plant contains a toxin called calcium oxalate, which can cause skin irritation, mouth sores, and swelling of the throat and tongue. In rare cases, ingestion of this plant can lead to seizures and even death.
Conclusion
Philodendron bonifaziae is a Philodendron species that is native to Colombia. The plant has large, glossy leaves and can grow up to 20 feet in length. It is an easy plant to care for and is ideal for beginners. So, you should consider adding this plant to your indoor plant collection!