Philodendron peltatum is a beautiful terrestrial aroid that is often used in tropical gardens. It can be grown indoors or outdoors and is very easy to care for. This plant has large, ruffled, heart-shaped leaves with thick cream veins.
We will discuss the best way to care for Philodendron peltatum, as well as some of the most common problems that occur with this plant. We will also provide some tips on how to prevent these problems from occurring.
Appearance
Philodendron Peltatum has dark green, shiny, heart-shaped leaves. The base of each leaf is light green and the stem is purplish-brown. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
It is native to Central and South America. It prefers warm temperatures and high humidity levels. The plant does best in indirect sunlight but can also tolerate low light conditions.
Philodendron Peltatum Features
Drought Tolerance
This plant is known for its drought tolerance, and it can often be seen growing in areas where water is scarce.
Air Purification
Philodendron Peltatum has large, glossy leaves that are able to trap a variety of pollutants and toxins. As a result, these plants are often used in homes and office buildings to help purify the air. In addition to their air purification benefits, Philodendron Peltatum plants are also known for their ability to boost mood and improve concentration.
Maintenance
It is a very easy plant to care for as it only needs moderate watering and does not require a lot of fertilizer. The plant can tolerate low light conditions but prefers indirect sunlight to thrive.
Toxicity
All parts of this plant are poisonous, so keep this plant away from children and pets. If ingested, the plant can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Philodendron Peltatum Care
Philodendron Peltatum care involves providing the plant with moderate watering and fertilizer. The plant prefers indirect sunlight but can tolerate low light conditions. A weak fertilizer solution can be applied every two weeks. It likes moist soil, but not wet soil. If the plant is being grown outdoors, it should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought. If the plant is being grown indoors, it should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Quick Guide
Soil | Moist, well-drained potting soil |
Water | Moist but not wet |
Fertilizer | Every two weeks. |
Light | Bright, indirect light |
Temperature | 65-75 degrees F |
Humidity | High humidity |
Pruning | Prune off dead leaves and stems |
Repotting | Repot every two years |
Soil
It does best in moist, well-drained potting soil. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have a pH level of between six and seven. A commercial potting mix or a homemade mixture of equal parts peat moss and perlite will provide the root system with the aeration and drainage it needs to stay healthy.
Watering
This plant needs to be watered regularly, but do not water the plant if the top inch of soil is dry. Water the plant until the soil is wet, but not dripping wet. Allow the plant to drain completely before returning it to its pot.
Light
While the Peltatum Philodendron will do best in bright, indirect light, it can also tolerate low light levels. If the light is too low, the leaves will become smaller and the plant will grow more slowly. In very high light, the leaves may develop brown spots.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for this plant is 65-75 degrees F. It cannot tolerate cold temperatures and will not do well if exposed to frost.
Humidity
It requires high humidity levels to thrive. You can increase the humidity level around the plant by placing it in a terrarium or by using a humidifier. You can also increase the humidity level by misting the plant with water every day.
Pruning
While Philodendron Peltatum is a low-maintenance plant, it will benefit from regular pruning. Dead leaves and stems should be removed as they occur. The plant can also be lightly pruned every few months to encourage fuller growth. When pruning, take care not to damage the fragile leaves or stems. It is also important not to over-prune, as this can harm the plant. With a little care, Philodendron Peltatum will thrive and provide lush, green foliage for many years.
Repotting
Repot it every two years using moist, well-drained potting soil. Be sure to use a pot with drainage holes. It is best to repot the plant during the spring or summer months.
Appropriate Pot Type and Size
When repotting it, use a pot that is at least six inches larger in diameter than the previous pot. The pot should also have drainage holes. The best type of pot for the plant is a terracotta pot.
How to Repot Philodendron Peltatum?
If your Philodendron Peltatum plant is beginning to grow too large for its pot, it’s time to repot the plant. Repotting the plant is a simple process that only takes a few minutes. Here’s how to do it:
- Remove the plant from its pot and gently loosen the root ball.
- Place the plant in a new pot and fill it with moist, well-drained potting soil.
- Pack the soil around the root ball and water thoroughly.
Philodendron Peltatum Propagation
Philodendron peltatum can be propagated by rooting stem cuttings. Take a stem cutting from the plant and remove the leaves from the bottom two-thirds of the cutting. Dip the end of the cutting in hormone powder and place it in moist, well-drained potting soil. Cover the pot with plastic wrap and place it in a warm, sunny location. Water the cutting regularly and wait for it to root. Rooting will take anywhere from two to four weeks.
Water Propagation
Another way to propagate it is by water propagation. Remove the top two leaves from a healthy stem and place them in a glass of water. Keep the water level high and change the water every other day. Roots will form in two to four weeks and the stem can be transplanted into soil.
Symptoms of Overwatering or Underwatering
If you are not sure how to water your plant, here are some symptoms of overwatering and underwatering to look out for:
Overwatering
- The leaves of the plant are wilted and drooping.
- The soil is wet and soggy.
- The plant is growing slowly or not at all.
- White, powdery mildew is growing on the leaves.
Underwatering
- The leaves of the plant are wilted and drooping.
- Dry and crumbly soil.
- Slow plant growth.
- Brown and crispy leaves.
Pests and Diseases
Just like Philodendron Ruizii, Philodendron Peltatum is also susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including spider mites, whiteflies, aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects.
If you notice any of these pests or diseases on your plant, take action immediately. Here are some tips on how to get rid of pests and diseases:
- For spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies, use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
- For mealybugs and scale insects, use a systemic insecticide.
- Remove any infected leaves from the plant.
- Increase the humidity level around the plant.
- Spray the plant with a fungicide diluted to half strength.
- Place the plant in a sunny location.
Diseases could harm your plant, so it is important to take action as soon as you notice any problems. By following the tips above, you can help keep your plant healthy and looking beautiful.
It is also important to ensure that you correctly identify fulfilling the mentioned caring needs as many people get confused when it comes to Philodendron Peltatum vs Pastazanum.
How to Get Rid of White, Powdery Mildew on Philodendron Peltatum
If your plant has developed white, powdery mildew, here are a few things you can do to get rid of the mold:
- Remove any infected leaves from the plant.
- Increase the humidity level around the plant.
- Spray the plant with a fungicide diluted to half strength.
- Place the plant in a sunny location.
Tips for Caring for Philodendron Peltatum Indoors
Here are some tips for caring for this plant indoors:
- Place the plant in a location with bright, indirect light.
- Keep the temperature around the plant between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Water the plant regularly, making sure to water until the soil is wet but not dripping wet.
- Fertilize the plant every two to four weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Prune the plant regularly to keep it healthy and looking beautiful.
Philodendron Peltatum FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about this plant:
Philodendron Peltatum is not a rare plant and is commonly found while browsing the garden centers, making it one of the most popular houseplants. It grows well in the shade and can also be easily found in tropical rainforests.
Yes, you can grow it outdoors. It is a hardy tropical perennial that will grow in most climates and is an easy plant to care for. It does best in a moist, shady location with rich soil and will tolerate some light sun, but prefers shadier areas. In colder climates, it can be brought indoors due to its low tolerance to colder temperatures.
No, it does not like to stay rootbound. In fact, it’s important to repot your plant every 2 years or so in order to provide it with fresh soil and ample room to grow. If you allow your plant to stay rootbound for too long, its growth will slow down and it may eventually die.
Conclusion
As you can see, Philodendron peltatum is a relatively easy plant to care for. With just a few simple tips, you can keep your plant thriving for years to come. So why not add one to your collection today?