Philodendron gloriosum (Glorious Philodendron)

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Philodendron, Genus, spp., Multiple species,

Genus
Multiple species

philodendrons

Araceae

Tropical Central and South America and the Caribbean

Container Friendly

SunPart Shade – Full Shade

WaterMedium

HardinessZones 9–12

Overview

Philodendron is a genus of roughly 480 evergreen tropical species in the arum family, Araceae, native to the rainforests of Central and South America and the Caribbean. The genus falls into two broad growth forms: climbing or trailing species that scramble up trees by aerial roots, such as the heartleaf philodendron P. hederaceum, and self-heading species that build a stout, non-climbing crown of arching leaves, such as P. bipinnatifidum. Leaves vary widely, from small heart shapes a few inches long to deeply lobed or pinnately cut blades over 3 ft (90 cm), generally glossy and deep green though some are red, bronze, or variegated. Climbing forms can reach 10-20 ft (3-6 m) on a support, while self-heading types form mounds 3-6 ft (1-1.8 m) across. As in other aroids, the flowers are tiny and packed on a finger-like spadix wrapped in a leaf-like spathe, but most plants rarely bloom in cultivation. All parts contain calcium oxalate crystals that irritate the mouth and are toxic to people and pets if chewed. Philodendrons grow in warmth and bright indirect light and are widely grown as indoor foliage plants.

Native Range

The genus is native to tropical Central and South America and the Caribbean, growing in lowland and montane rainforest from Mexico south to Argentina. Most species root in the ground and climb host trees, while some grow as epiphytes high in the canopy.

Suggested Uses

Philodendrons are grown chiefly as indoor and conservatory foliage plants, in pots, hanging baskets, and trained up moss poles. In frost-free climates they are planted outdoors as ground cover, climbers, and large-leaved accents in shade. Compact self-heading forms suit tabletops and shaded patios.

How to Identify

Identify Philodendron by glossy evergreen leaves, often heart-shaped or deeply lobed, carried on sheathed stalks that leave ringed scars along the stem, together with thick aerial roots on climbing species. New leaves emerge from a papery protective sheath called a cataphyll. The arum-type flower, a spadix wrapped in a single spathe, separates it from superficially similar Monstera and Epipremnum.

Appearance

Size & Dimensions

Height1' - 20'

Width/Spread1' - 6'

Colors

Flower Colors

Foliage Colors

red

Fall Foliage Colors

Bloom Information

Flowering is rare in cultivation and uncommon even in the wild for many species. Where it occurs, a finger-like spadix of tiny flowers sits within a hooded spathe of green, white, or maroon, often warming and releasing scent to draw beetle pollinators. Most cultivated philodendrons are grown for foliage and may never bloom indoors.

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

green, white, or maroon spathe

Foliage Description

glossy deep green, some red, bronze, or variegated

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

SunPartial Shade SunFull Shade

Needs bright indirect light. Keep it out of direct sun, which can scorch the leaves.

• Bright indirect light: a bright spot near a window, with no direct sun on the leaves

Soil Requirements

pH Range5.5 - 7.0 (Acidic to neutral)

3579

Soil Types

loam peat

Drainagewell drained

Water & Climate

Water Needs

Medium

Frost Tolerance

tender

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Philodendron grows in warmth above 60F (16C) and bright indirect light, tolerating lower light at the cost of slower, leggier growth. Plant in a loose, freely draining mix kept evenly moist, allowing the top inch to dry between waterings, and reduce water in winter. Climbing species grow fuller when given a moss pole or other support for their aerial roots. The calcium oxalate sap irritates skin and is toxic to people and pets if eaten. Common problems include root rot in soggy soil, leaf yellowing from overwatering, and scale, aphids, and spider mites. Brown leaf edges usually signal dry air or salt buildup from tap water.

Pruning

Trim Philodendron in spring or summer to control size and shape, cutting climbing stems just above a leaf node, from which new growth and roots emerge. Removing yellow or damaged leaves at the base keeps plants tidy, and pinching stem tips encourages branching. Cuttings root readily in water or moist mix.