Philodendron Dark Lord is one of the most imposing and intense houseplants around. It’s easy to see why this plant has such a dark and foreboding name as its large leaves have an almost black color that makes it a dramatic addition to any indoor garden. While it may seem like it would be difficult to care for a plant with such distinctive characteristics, Dark Lord Philodendron is actually quite easy to grow. So if you’re looking for a showstopper for your indoor garden, don’t overlook this powerful performer.
What Does Dark Lord Philodendron Look Like?
Philodendron dark lord botanical name is Philodendron Erubescens, it is a species of flowering plant in the arum family, Araceae. It is native to the tropical Americas, from Mexico to Argentina.
Philodendron Dark lord mature plant has large, lobed leaves that are dark green in color and can grow up to 2.5 feet long. Dark Lord Philodendron’s growth rate is fast. The leaves are borne on long, club-shaped stems called peduncles. It also produces small, greenish-white flowers that bloom in clusters. These flowers are pollinated by insects, such as bees and flies.
This plant reproduces via seeding or stem cuttings. It is commonly grown as a houseplant or in outdoor gardens in tropical and subtropical regions.
Philodendron Dark Lord Features
Drought Tolerance
It is a drought-tolerant plant and can survive long periods of dryness. However, an extended period of dryness can cause irreversible damage to the plant.
Air Purification
Philodendron dark lord is especially good at removing formaldehyde from the air. Formaldehyde is a common indoor pollutant that can cause respiratory problems, headaches, and skin irritation. By removing formaldehyde from the air, it can help to improve your health and well-being.
Maintenance
This is a low-maintenance plant and only needs to be watered every two weeks. It can be grown in soil or water. This plant is perfect for anyone who wants a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant that can purify the air in their home.
Toxicity
Philodendron Dark Lord is a beautiful, but potentially deadly, plant. Though it is prized for its dark leaves, it can cause serious health problems if ingested. The plant contains calcium oxalate, which is a chemical that can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth, throat, and stomach. In severe cases, it can even lead to difficulty breathing and death. If you suspect that someone has eaten part of the plant, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. While the plant may be lovely to look at, its toxicity makes it one best admired from a distance.
Dormancy
This plant will go into a dormant state during the winter months. During this time, the plant will not grow and will require very little water. It is important not to overwater this plant during its dormant period.
Philodendron Dark Lord Care
Philodendron Dark Lord is easy to care for. It does best in moist, well-drained soil and partial sun. It will tolerate drought conditions but prefers regular watering. Fertilize your plant every other month with a balanced fertilizer. It can be grown in soil or water. If you grow this plant in water, change the water every week.
Quick Guide
| Soil | Well-draining |
| Light | Bright but indirect sunlight |
| Water | Every two weeks |
| Humidity | High humidity (60-80%) |
| Temperature | Warm temperatures (75-85°F) |
| Fertilizer | Every month |
| Pruning | Prune off dead leaves |
| Repotting | Every two years |
Soil
The best soil for Philodendron dark lord is well-drained soil. You can grow the plant in either soil or water. The ideal potting mix for this plant is a soil-based potting mix with plenty of organic matter.
Watering
Dark Lord Philodendron needs to be watered every two weeks. The plant can tolerate periods of drought but will do best if it is watered regularly. It is preferred to water plants with a moderate amount of water. The general rule of thumb is to insert your finger into the soil. If it feels dry at the depth of your finger, then it is time to water your plant.
Light Requirements
It prefers indirect but bright sunlight and should be kept in a shaded area outdoors if it is being grown in the sun. If grown indoors, it should be kept at least 6 feet away from an east or west-facing window.
Humidity
Philodendron Dark Lord requires high humidity (60-80%). You can increase the humidity around the plant by misting it with water or by using a pebble tray.
Temperature Requirements
Philodendron Dark Lord prefers warm temperatures (75-85°F). The plant can tolerate cooler temperatures but will do best if it is kept in a warm environment.
Fertilizer
This plant needs to be fertilized every month. You can use a general-purpose fertilizer or a special African violet fertilizer.
Pruning
It should be pruned off dead leaves regularly.
Repotting
It should be repotted every two years. You can either repot the plant in the same container or transplant it to a new container. It is important to use a pot with drainage holes.
How to Repot Dark Lord Philodendron?
While repotting your Dark Lord Philodendron follow these steps :
- Remove the plant from its current pot by gently pulling it out of the pot.
- If the plant is rootbound, use a sharp knife to cut away some of the roots.
- Place a layer of fresh soil in the bottom of the pot.
- Put the plant in the pot and fill the soil around the plant.
- Water the plant well to help it settle in its new pot.
- Place the pot in a sunny location and water regularly.
Dark Lord Philodendron Propagation
It can be propagated via seeding or stem cuttings.
Seeding
It can be seeded by planting the seeds in soil or water. The seeds will germinate in about two weeks.
Stem Cuttings
It can also be propagated via stem cuttings. Take a cutting from the stem and place it in water or soil. The stem will root in about two weeks.
Symptoms of Overwatering or Underwatering
Overwatering
If this plant is overwatered, the leaves will turn yellow and wilted. The plant may also start to rot.
Underwatering
If this plant is underwatered, the leaves will turn brown and crispy. The plant may also start to wilt.
Common Problems and Their Solutions
Wilting
It may be wilting due to overwatering or underwatering. You should check if the soil is dry and water the plant accordingly.
Yellow Leaves
It may have yellow leaves due to overwatering or over-fertilization.
Try watering the plant less often and see if the leaves return to their normal green color. If your plant continues to have yellow leaves, try reducing the amount of fertilizer.
It Has Dark Green Leaves With Brown Spots on Them
This is a common problem for this plant, and the solution is to give them more sunlight. It needs at least six hours of bright sunlight each day. If you can’t provide them with that much sunlight, you can try moving them to a sunnier location or using a grow light.
Plant Is Not Growing
Make sure to provide it with at least six hours of light per day, and water it regularly. You may also need to fertilize it every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Plant Is Not Flowering
It is not flowering because it is not getting enough light. This philodendron needs at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to flower. If it is not getting enough light, move it to a location where it will receive more sun. You can also try increasing the amount of light that plant is receiving with a grow light.
Pests and Diseases
Pests
Just like Philodendron Ernestii, it is susceptible to pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and mealybugs. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Diseases
It is also susceptible to diseases such as root rot and fungal leaf spots. These diseases can be treated with fungicide. They may also be treated with a general-purpose fungicide available at your local garden center.
Tips for Caring for Dark Lord Philodendron Indoors
- It should be fertilized every month. You can use a general-purpose fertilizer or a special African violet fertilizer.
- This plant should be pruned off dead leaves regularly.
- It should be repotted every two years and you can either repot the plant in the same container or transplant it to a new container.
- This philodendron needs at least six hours of indirect, bright sunlight each day.
- It should be watered regularly, depending on the soil moisture levels. Generally, It should be watered once a week.
- This plant can be grown outdoors in the summer but should be brought indoors when temperatures fall below 50 degrees F.
- This is vital to accurately identify your plant as many people get confused when it comes to Philodendron Dark Lord vs Black Cardinal.
Dark Lord Philodendron: FAQs
Yes, it is quite rare. It’s a hybrid variety of philodendrons that was created by crossing two other plant species. The resulting plant is a beautiful deep purple color, with large leaves that make it very distinctive.
It needs bright, indirect light. It’s best to place your plant near a window where it can get some natural light, but make sure to avoid direct sunlight. Too much sun can cause the leaves to turn yellow and crispy.
It is identifiable by its initial orange foliage, which will then turn a deep red before maturing into a light brown/green. The plant’s leaves are also very large and imposing, making it a popular choice for indoor gardens.
Check the leaves for signs of discoloration, spotting, or wilting. These could be indicative of fungal infections or pests. If you see any of these problems, isolate the affected leaves and try to treat them with fungicide or insecticide.
Conclusion
Philodendron Dark Lord is a unique and interesting plant that deserves to be more popular. It has many great qualities, such as its dark leaves and easy care requirements. With a little bit of light and water, this plant can thrive in any home or office.
