Philodendron golden crocodile is a hybrid Philodendron. It is a cross between two gorgeous Philodendron species, Philodendron pinnatifidum and Philodendron melinonii. This gorgeous houseplant is an evergreen Philodendron that has large, serrated leaves that are initially golden-yellow and then change to deep-green.
It is a popular houseplant that is native to Colombia, South America that can grow up to 1m in height.
What Does It Look Like?
Philodendron golden crocodile is an epiphytic climbing plant. It has large leaves that have saw-tooth-like leaves. These leaves grow a yellow color and then fade to golden. These leaves change to green as the plant matures and has yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer.
What Is Philodendron Golden Crocodile’s Natural Habitat?
Philodendron golden crocodile is native to Colombia, South America and is an epiphytic plant, which means it grows on other plants or trees. It is found in humid, tropical rainforests.
Other Features
Drought tolerance
It can tolerate drought conditions and can go without water for long periods of time. This is the reason why it does not need to be watered often and can survive in dry conditions.
Air Purification
It can help to purify the air by removing toxins from the air, such as formaldehyde and benzene. This houseplant can be a perfect addition to the green collection for people who suffer from allergies or asthma.
Maintenance
Philodendron golden crocodile is a Philodendron that is easy to care for. You can grow it in your home even if you are a beginner.
Toxicity
This houseplant is toxic for both humans and animals as it contains chemicals that can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and throat. It is a good plant for people who are looking for an air purifier but should be kept out of reach of children and pets.
Dormancy
This Philodendron can enter into a dormant state and will stop growing and producing leaves during dormancy. This plant will enter into dormancy when the conditions are too dry or too cold. However, you can bring it out of the dormant state by increasing the humidity and temperature.
Philodendron Golden Crocodile Care
This plant is easy to care for, and it is relatively drought-tolerant. The Philodendron Golden Crocodile does best in partial shade, and it should be watered regularly. fertilize this plant every two weeks during the growing season, and prune it back in the fall to encourage new growth.
Quick Guide
| Soil | Does not need rich soil, and can tolerate poor soil. |
| Light | Does best in bright, indirect light. |
| Water | Need an enormous amount of water |
| Humidity | More than 60% |
| Temperature | 60.°F – 75.°F |
| Fertilizer | Slow-release fertilizer once every 3 months. |
| Pruning | No regular pruning required. |
Soil Requirement
A good potting mix for Philodendron golden crocodile should contain a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and Vermiculite. This type of soil will help to retain moisture and provide the roots with plenty of air circulation.
Appropriate pot size and type
Golden crocodile philodendron can be grown in a pot or in the ground. It does not need a large pot as it can be grown in a small pot, and you can also grow this plant in a hanging basket.
The ideal pot size is a 12-inch pot, but can also be grown in an eight-inch pot. If you are growing in a pot, make sure the pot has a proper drainage hole.
Light Requirement
This philodendron does best in bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light, but will not grow as well. It can also tolerate direct sunlight, but it may scorch the leaves if exposed for a long duration.
Water Requirement
Golden crocodile philodendron needs an enormous amount of water and should be watered once a week, and the soil should be kept moist.
The best way to water this philodendron is to water it from below. Place the pot in a sink or basin, and let the water run through the drainage holes. Allow the pot to drain thoroughly before placing it back in its pot.
Humidity Requirement
It prefers high humidity and should be grown in an environment with more than 60% humidity, as it will not do well in dry conditions. If the humidity is lower than the required level, you can also mist the plant to increase the humidity levels.
Temperature Requirement
Philodendron Golden Crocodile prefers warm temperatures, and will not do well in cold conditions. This is the reason why it should be grown in an environment with temperatures between 60.°F – 75.°F. If the temperature is too cold, the plant can also go into a dormant state.
Fertilizer Requirement
It does not need to be fertilized often and can go into a dormant state with over-fertilization. You should only fertilize once every three months during the growing season with a slow-release fertilizer.
Pruning
It does not need to be pruned as it will naturally shed its leaves as it grows. Like other plants from the philodendron genus such as Philodendron gribianum, only prune this plant to remove the damaged or wilting leaves.
How to Repot Philodendron Golden Crocodile?
Philodendron golden crocodile does not need to be repotted often and can go into a dormant state. It should be repotted every two years during the growing season, but can also be repotted to increase the size of the pot.
When repotting, make sure to use a pot that is larger than the previous pot. It can also be transplanted to the ground if desired.
You can transplant your philodendron by following these steps:
- First, water your plant thoroughly.
- Next, dig a hole that is twice the size of the pot.
It can also be transplanted into the ground if desired by following these steps:
- Water your plant thoroughly.
- Dig a hole that is twice the size of the pot.
- Place your plant in the hole and fill it with soil.
- Water again and wait for it to adjust to its new environment.
Philodendron Golden Crocodile Propagation
Philodendron Golden Crocodile can be propagated by stem cuttings or by division.
To propagate by stem cuttings, follow these steps:
- Choose a plant that is in a healthy condition.
- Cut a stem that is at least six inches long.
- Remove the lower leaves from the stem.
- Dip the end of the stem in rooting hormone.
- Plant the stem in a pot filled with moist soil. Sixth, place the pot in a warm location with indirect light.
Water Propagation
This philodendron specie can also be propagated in water.
To propagate in water, follow these steps:
- Choose a healthy plant.
- Cut a stem that is at least six inches long.
- Remove the lower leaves from the stem.
- Place the stem in a glass of water.
- Place the glass of water in a warm location with indirect light.
Change the water every week to prevent it from getting stagnant. After about two weeks, roots should start to form on the stem.
Once the roots are about two inches long, you can transplant Philodendron Golden Crocodile into a pot filled with moist soil.
Common Problems and Their Solutions
Philodendron Golden Crocodile is susceptible to a few common problems. These problems include root rot, leaf spot, and stem rot.
Root rot
Root rot is caused by overwatering of the plant. The solution to this problem is to allow the soil to dry out between watering.
Leaf spot
It is caused by too little light. The solution to this problem is to move the plant to a location with more light.
Stem rot
It is caused by too much water. The solution to this problem is to allow the soil to dry out between watering.
Some people may also find it hard to distinguish when it comes to Philodendron Golden Crocodile vs. Ring of Fire. However, it is important to recognize the plant correctly to provide it with the required growing environment for optimal growth.
Pests
Philodendron Golden Crocodile is susceptible to mealybugs and aphids.
Mealybugs are small, white insects that suck the sap from plants. The solution to this problem is to remove the mealybugs with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Aphids are small, green insects that suck the sap from the leaves. You can get rid of them by spraying them with water. You can also remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
FAQs About Philodendron Golden Crocodile
You should water once the top inch of soil is dry.
Yes, Philodendron Golden Crocodile is toxic to humans or pets and it can cause vomiting and diarrhea if ingested.
You should fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with liquid fertilizer or once every 3 months with a slow-release fertilizer. The right way to fertilize is to dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength.
Yes, Philodendron Golden Crocodile is a climbing plant and has aerial roots that help it climb. You can also train this plant to grow on a trellis or a pole.
Conclusion
Overall, the Philodendron golden crocodile is a beautiful plant that can add some color and life to any home. They are relatively easy to care for, but it is important to remember that they do need regular watering and fertilization. With a little bit of love and attention, these plants can thrive and bring you years of enjoyment. So if you are looking for a plant that is easy to care for and can add some beauty to your home, then it may be a perfect fit for you.
