Heart-Leaf Philodendron Plant Care

Common Name: Heart-Leaf Philodendron
Scientific Name: Philodendron scandens oxycardium
Lighting: Moderate
Watering: Moderate to Low

The Heart-leaf Philodendron is a great vining houseplant. I have had mine for over 6 years now and as you can see it has gotten quite large. Keep in mind, I have given this plant many "haircuts" as I call them and yet it is still healthy and big. The Heart-leaf Philodendron is characterized by heart shaped leaves growing off of vines from the plant. Leaves can be anywhere from 2 to 6 inches in diameter. The Philodendron requires little care but not none. This plant requires pruning care to keep its full appearance. One caution to be aware of, those with children. Some Philodendrons are toxic if eater, so be sure to keep them away from your pets and children.

Philodendrons prefer moderate to low light. If new foliage begins to develop smaller or the distance between leaves is larger in distance, your plant is most likely not receiving enough light. However, please be careful. Direct sunlight can burn the foliage.

This houseplant requires moderate to low water requirements. Try and keep the soil moist but do not allow it to dry out completely in between watering. If the foliage begins to turn yellow, you are probably over watering the plant. On the other hand if the foliage begins to turn brown you are not providing the plant with enough water. The Philodendron does not seem to mind lower humidity levels, however if you give a daily dose of misting to it, the plant will provide you with an even more beautiful appearance. Be sure to also keep the foliage clear of dust by washing regularly.

Many varieties of Philodendrons like to vine. As you can see from my pictures, vines can grow quite long, so trimming the plant back will not harm it. Trimming will help you shape this plant to the size you have for it. If you are looking to keep your plants current shape, be sure to trim back new growth. I have used small pins to hold my vines into place however some varieties of Philodendrons will actually product small roots, which will cling to your wall.

This houseplant provides you with the benefit of creating even more Philodendrons as you wish. Propagating is extremely easy. Simply cut off a vine that is long enough for you to place the end in water. Keep the cut stem in water for a few weeks and before you know it, your stem has produced a large amount of roots. Simply plant your new roots and your done. I tend to give my large philodendron haircuts a couple times a year. When I do, I place all my stems in a vase with water so they can root and I have a whole new Philodendron. The picture of the plant along the glass block wall is from one of my large plants haircuts.

This houseplant is toxic when eaten, so please keep out of reach of children and animals. It is one of the many poisonous houseplants you may have in your home.

Overall, this houseplant is one of my all time favorites. It's on my list of easy to grow houseplants! Plus they can add so much drama and character to any room. Best of all, you can have as many philodendrons as you want for little time and money!!!