Philodendron ruizii is a species of plant in the Araceae family. It is native to Ecuador and Colombia. The plant is an epiphyte, meaning that it grows on other plants or trees. It has long, cascading stems with dark green leaves. The leaves are heart-shaped and have a glossy finish.
What Does Philodendron ruizii Look Like
Philodendron ruizii is a beautiful plant that adds life and vibrancy to any room. Its large leaves make it an eye-catching addition to any garden or landscape, and its easy care makes it perfect for busy homeowners.
It is a small, delicate plant that has thin, dark green leaves with light green veins. Philodendron ruizii mature height is about 12-18 inches tall and it spreads about the same amount.
Philodendron ruizii Features
Drought Tolerance
It is a drought-tolerant plant. It can go for short periods of time without water but prefers evenly moist soil.
Cold Tolerance
It is a tropical plant and does not tolerate cold weather well. In the winter, it should be brought inside if the temperature is below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Air Purification
Philodendron ruizii is known for its ability to filter out harmful toxins from the air. These toxins can come from a variety of sources, including cleaning products, paint fumes, and cigarette smoke. In addition, it can help to improve air quality by increasing humidity levels. This can be beneficial for people who suffer from allergies or respiratory problems.
Maintenance
This is a very low-maintenance plant. It does well in both high and low light environments and can tolerate drought conditions.
If you are looking for an easy-to-care-for plant that adds life and color to any room or landscape, Philodendron ruizii plant is a perfect choice!
Toxicity
It is a toxic plant and can be harmful if ingested. It is why it is important that if you have children or pets, to keep this plant out of their reach.
Dormancy
This plant does not go through a typical dormancy period. However, if the plant is being grown in a cold climate or if it isn’t receiving enough sunlight, it may enter into a dormant state. During this time, the leaves will yellow and die back, but the plant will not die. It will resume growth once conditions improve.
Philodendron ruizii Care
Philodendron ruizii does not like direct sunlight, so it should be kept in a shady spot. It also prefers moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly. This plant is also not tolerant of cold temperatures, so it should be kept indoors during the winter months. It can be grown indoors or outdoors in USDA zones 11-12.
Quick Guide
| Soil | Airy, and well-draining soil. |
| Light | Moderate to bright sunlight. |
| Water | When the topsoil is dry (once a week in the growing season. |
| Humidity | Around 60% |
| Temperature | 68-100°F |
| Fertilizer | Two times a month in the growing season. |
| Pruning | Once a year. |
| Repotting | Every two years. |
Soil
Philodendron ruizii does best in a well-draining soil that is light and airy. A potting mix designed for cacti and succulents is a good option, or you can create your own mix by combining equal parts potting soil, perlite, and sand.
Light
It needs moderate to bright sunlight in order to thrive. It can be grown indoors or outdoors, but it will need at least four hours of direct sunlight per day if it is being grown outdoors.
Watering
Water Philodendron ruizii plant when the topsoil is dry. You can water it once a week in the growing season, but you may need to water it more often if it is being grown in a hot, sunny location. Be sure to avoid getting the leaves wet, as this can cause them to rot.
Humidity
It prefers humidity levels of 60%. You can increase the humidity around the plant by placing it in a humid area, misting it regularly, or using a humidifier.
Temperature
Philodendron ruizii is a tropical plant and does best when temperatures are in the 20 to 40 degrees Celsius range. It can be grown in USDA zones 11-12, but should be brought inside if the temperature falls below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Fertilizer
Fertilize this plant twice a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Follow these steps to fertilize correctly:
- Water the plant well before fertilizing.
- Mix the fertilizer with water according to the instructions on the label.
- Spray or pour the fertilizer solution over the soil, being sure to avoid getting it on the leaves.
Pruning
It only needs to be pruned once a year. Remove any dead or wilted leaves from the plant and cut off any branches that are growing too close to the soil.
Repotting
Just like Philodendron Black Majesty, it should be repotted every two years into a pot that is one size larger than the current pot. Be sure to use a well-draining potting mix and avoid overwatering the plant.
Appropriate Pot Type
A pot with a hole in the bottom is best for this plant, as it allows for drainage. You can use a clay pot, terra-cotta pot, or plastic pot.
How to Repot Philodendron ruizii
In order to repot Philodendron ruizii, you will need the following supplies:
- A pot one size larger than the current pot.
- Potting soil.
- Perlite.
- Sand.
- Pruning shears.
- Watering can or hose.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Remove the plant from the pot.
- If the plant is root-bound, loosen the roots before repotting.
- Fill the new pot with potting soil.
- Add perlite and sand to the soil.
- Place the plant in the new pot and fill more soil around the roots.
- Water thoroughly.
Philodendron ruizii Propagation
Philodendron ruizii can be propagated by stem cuttings or air layering.
Stem Cuttings
To propagate it with stem cuttings, start by removing a healthy stem from the plant. Cut the stem below a leaf node and remove any leaves from the bottom two-thirds of the stem. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and place it in a moistened potting mix. Cover the pot with plastic wrap to create a greenhouse effect and keep the mix moist until new roots form.
Air Layers
To propagate it with air layering, start by removing a healthy stem from the plant. Cut off a section of the stem that is at least six inches long. Remove any leaves from the bottom two-thirds of the stem and make a small incision in the bark. Apply rooting hormone to the incision and place the stem in a moistened potting mix. Cover the pot with plastic wrap to create a greenhouse effect and keep the mix moist until new roots form.
Symptoms of Overwatering or Underwatering
Symptoms of overwatering this plant include wilted leaves, soggy soil, and root rot. Whereas, the symptoms of underwatering this plant include dry soil, brown leaves, and leaf drop.
The general rule of thumb for watering this plant is to water when the top one inch of soil is dry. However, you may need to adjust your watering schedule depending on the climate, pot type, and fertilization frequency.
If you are having trouble determining whether or not your plant needs water, these tips can help:
- Check the soil moisture with your fingers.
- Insert a wooden skewer into the soil. If it comes out wet, don’t water yet. If it comes out dry, water immediately.
- Look at the leaves. Wilted leaves are a sign of overwatering, while brown leaves are a sign of underwatering.
Pests and Diseases
Pests that may affect your plant include aphids, mealybugs, and scale. Apart from that, the diseases that may affect your plant include root rot, stem rot, and wilt.
If you notice any pests or diseases on your plant, take action immediately to get rid of them. This may include using a pesticide or fungicide, removing the infected leaves, or repotting the plant into a new pot.
Also, it is vital to correctly identify the plant to ensure the required caring needs as many people get confused when it comes to Philodendron Ruizii vs Bicolor.
Tips for Caring for Philodendron Ruizii Indoors
- It can be grown indoors in a pot or garden.
- The plant prefers bright, indirect light.
- Water when the top one inch of soil is dry.
- Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer.
- Pests and diseases are common problems for this plant. Be on the lookout for any signs of pests or diseases and take action immediately if you spot any.
- The plant can grow up to six feet tall. Prune the plant to keep it at the desired height.
Philodendron Ruizii FAQs
Yes, it is a poisonous plant. The leaves and stems of this plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause intense irritation and burning of the mouth, lips, and throat upon contact.
While it is typically grown as a houseplant, it can also be cultivated outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11.
Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule as needed. Make sure to avoid overwatering the plant.
Make sure the soil is moist but not soggy. Watering and fertilization should happen regularly, and you may need to move your plant into more direct sunlight if necessary for optimal growth!
Conclusion
Philodendron ruizii is an excellent choice for a home garden. It is easy to care for and grows quickly. With a little bit of care, your plant will thrive in your garden for years to come.
