Philodendron pteromischum is a species of Philodendron that is native to Peru and Costa Rica. It is a miniature evergreen vine with small, heart-shaped leaves that are green with a purple underside. This plant is a popular choice for indoor gardens, and it requires minimal care and attention. Therefore, it is an excellent choice for beginners and novice gardeners.
Philodendron Pteromischum Appearance
Philodendron Pteromischum has small, dark green leaves that are lobed and have a leathery texture. These are heart-shaped just like other Philodendron species. But unlike other Philodendrons, it has small leaves and this is the reason why it is also known as the ‘Narrow leaf’ plant.
This Philodendron can grow quite large if given the right conditions. When mature, this philodendron can reach up to two feet in length.
Philodendron Pteromischum Features
Drought Tolerance
It is a drought-tolerant plant that can withstand periods of dryness. This plant does not require frequent watering, and it can tolerate infrequent watering. However, it should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. How often you water your plant will depend on the size of the pot, the type of potting mix, and the humidity levels in your home.
Air Purification
It is an excellent plant for purifying the air in your home. This plant filters out harmful toxins and pollutants from the air, and it helps to improve indoor air quality.
Maintenance
It is a low-maintenance plant that does not require much care or attention. This plant can be left to grow on its own, and it does not need to be pruned or trimmed. As is an easy plant to care for, it makes an excellent choice for beginners.
It is a versatile plant that can be grown in a variety of ways. This plant can be grown as a groundcover, in a hanging basket, or in a pot.
Dormancy
It is a tropical plant that does not go through a dormancy period. This plant will continue to grow year-round, and it does not need to be pruned or trimmed.
Philodendron Pteromischum Care
Philodendron Pteromischum prefers medium to high light but can also tolerate low light conditions. The ideal temperature for this plant is between 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit. This miniature plant should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. This plant does not like to be overwatered, and too much water can lead to root rot. It should be fertilized once a month during the growing season and does not need to be pruned, but you can trim away any dead or dying leaves.
Quick Guide
| Soil | Well-draining potting mix. |
| Light | Bright, indirect sunlight. |
| Water | Medium. |
| Humidity | 60-80%. |
| Temperature | 55 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. |
| Fertilizer | Every 4-6 weeks with a liquid fertilizer. |
| Pruning | Every growing season. |
Soil Requirement
Philodendron Pteromischum grows best in a well-draining potting mix. The soil should be moist but not soggy. If the soil is too dry, the leaves will begin to droop. If the soil is too wet, the roots will rot.
The ideal potting mix is a mixture of perlite, peat moss, and vermiculite.
Appropriate Pot Size and Type
Philodendron Pteromischum can be grown in a pot that is 12 inches wide and 12 inches deep. The pot should have drainage holes to prevent the roots from rotting.
The best type of pot is a plastic or ceramic pot. These materials are lightweight and will not tip over when the plant is full-grown.
Light Requirements
Philodendron Pteromischum thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. If the light is too direct, the leaves will burn. The ideal location for this philodendron is near a window that receives filtered sunlight.
It can also be grown under artificial light, such as fluorescent light bulbs.
Water Requirements
Philodendron Pteromischum should be watered every week. The soil should be moist but not soggy. If the soil is too dry, the leaves will begin to droop. If the soil is too wet, the roots will rot.
To water your plant, use a watering can with a spout that is small enough to fit into the pot’s drainage holes. Water the plant until the water runs out of the bottom of the pot.
Humidity Requirements
Pteromischum Philodendron thrives in humid environments and the ideal humidity level for this philodendron is 60-80%.
If the humidity is lower than the required range, you can place the plant on a pebble tray or mist with water to increase the humidity in the surroundings.
Temperature Requirements
Pteromischum Philodendron prefers warm temperatures and the ideal temperature range for this plant is 55 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
It can not tolerate cold temperatures. If the temperature drops below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, the leaves will turn brown and drop off.
Fertilizer Requirements
It should be fertilized every four to six weeks with a liquid fertilizer. As it is a fast-growing plant, it will benefit from regular fertilization.
To fertilize this miniature philodendron, mix the fertilizer with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a watering can to apply the fertilizer to the soil around the plant. Do not pour the fertilizer directly on the leaves as this may burn them.
Pruning Requirements
This philodendron should be pruned every growing season. As it is a vigorous grower, it will benefit from regular pruning.
To prune your plant, use sharp, sterile pruning shears. Cut off any dead or dying leaves. You can also cut back the stems to control the plant’s size.
How to Repot Philodendron Pteromischum?
The best time to repot the plant is in the spring. It is a fast-growing plant and will need to be repotted every one to two years.
To repot, choose a pot that is one size larger than the current pot. The new pot should have drainage holes to prevent the roots from rotting.
These are the easy steps to repot Pteromischum Philodendron:
- Gently remove the plant from the current pot.
- loosen the root ball and remove any loose or dead roots.
- Place the plant in the new pot.
- Fill in around the plant with fresh potting mix.
- Water the plant well and place it in a bright, indirect sunlight location.
Apart from its repotting, propagation of Philodendron pteromischum is also an easy and enjoyable task, especially for beginners.
Diseases and Pests
Philodendron Pteromischum is relatively resistant to diseases and pests like other plants of this genus such as Philodendron Rubrocinctum. However, mealybugs and spider mites can be a problem for this plant.
Mealybugs are small, white insects that suck the sap from the leaves. Mealybugs can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Spider mites are tiny, spider-like creatures that feed on its leaves. Spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
To prevent problems with mealybugs and spider mites, keep your plant well watered and fertilized. It is also less likely to be attacked by pests if it is grown in a humid environment.
Tips for Growing Philodendron Pteromischum Indoors
Philodendron Pteromischum is a great plant to grow indoors. Here are a few tips for growing this miniature philodendron:
- This plant needs bright, indirect sunlight so placing the plant at a south-facing window is ideal.
- Since it prefers a humid environment, mist the leaves with water every week or place your plant on a pebble tray filled with water.
- This plant likes to be potbound, so don’t repot it too often, every two years should be sufficient.
FAQs about Philodendron Pteromischum
If Philodendron Pteromischum is not growing, this may be a sign of too little light. Move Philodendron Pteromischum to a brighter location for a better growth.
If the leaves of Philodendron Pteromischum are turning yellow, this is a sign of overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out before watering your plant again.
If the leaves of Philodendron Pteromischum are turning turn brown, this is a sign of underwatering. Water your phollidendron more frequently and ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent the roots from rotting.
Philodendron Pteromischum should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. As a rule of thumb, you can water this plant once a week.
Conclusion
Philodendron Pteromischum is a beautiful plant that is easy to grow. With proper care, this miniature plant will thrive and produce new growth each season. It makes an excellent houseplant and can also be used in outdoor landscaping. Apart from that, it is a versatile plant that can be propagated by stem cuttings or air layering. With a little care, Pteromischum Philodendron will provide years of enjoyment.
