Plant care library / Heartleaf Philodendron
How to Care for Heartleaf Philodendron
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About Heartleaf Philodendron
Heartleaf Philodendrons are easy to care for and easier to love - naturally getting its name from the Greek words philo - ‘love’ and dendron - ‘tree’. Hailing from Central America and the Caribbean, the Heartleaf Philodendron wears a glossy, forest green heart-shaped foliage, which grows long, sprawling vines, and gracefully lightens up any living space with a tropical jungle vibe.
Other common names
- Scandens Philodendron
- Philodendron Hederaceum
How Often Should I Water My Heartleaf Philodendron?
With easyplant, watering your Heartleaf Philodendron is simple. Make sure to check the easyplant reservoir once a month and fill it when empty, and you're all set!
Heartleaf Philodendron Light Needs
Heartleaf Philodendron grows best in a well lit space with bright direct or indirect sunlight, and can adapt to spaces with medium to low light, where the source of light is further away. Avoid placing it in spaces without natural sunlight.
Heartleaf Philodendron Plant Care
During your Heartleaf Philodendron’s first few days at home, one or two leaves might yellow or fall. This is a normal part of adjustment and no cause for concern.
Once adjusted, Heartleaf Philodendron is very easy to care for, and will reward your love for it by quickly bouncing back from any mishap.
To help it grow optimally and evenly, occasionally dust the leaves and rotate the pot by a ¼ turn once a month.
How Big Do Heartleaf Philodendron Plants Grow?
Heartleaf Philodendrons are a natural trailer that will grow long, and can eventually be hung across a wall or stretch down a high shelf. Alternately, Heartleaf Philodendrons also “climb,” so, if you’d like, you can place a trellis in the pot, and the plant : vines will grow up and around the trellis.
If you let your Heartleaf Philodendron grow, its vines will eventually stretch over four feet, so make sure you have plenty of room for it to spread out! Some of the biggest Heartleaf Philodendrons will grow 12 feet or more!
Temperature & Humidity
Knowing the right temperature and humidity level for your plant is a big help when growing a Heartleaf Philodendron. Temperatures that are ideal for this plant are similar to what you’d encounter in its natural habitat, which is the tropical areas of Central and South America. Ideally, you’ll want to keep its environment between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, though your Heartleaf Philodendron can handle temperatures that are slightly colder. Because it grows in tropical areas, Heartleaf Philodendrons love moisture and humidity. Using a humidifier or grouping a few plants together can help, but these plants can tolerate dry air a little better than some other tropical plants.
Are Heartleaf Philodendron Toxic for Pets & Kids?
Heartleaf Philodendron may be moderately toxic if ingested, so be sure to keep away from curious children and pets.
Troubleshooting Common Problems with Heartleaf Philodendron
If you notice multiple leaves are turning pale or yellow, relocate the pot to a less brightly lit area, where the light is not directly touching the foliage. If you notice stems growing long and leggy with too much space in between the leaves, relocate the pot to a more brightly lit area, where the light is not directly touching the foliage.
Frequently Asked Questions about Heartleaf Philodendron Plant
- Is a Heart Leaf Philodendron the Same as a Pothos?
Heartleaf Philodendrons and Pothos are very similar plants, but a discerning eye can tell them apart. Here’s how to distinguish between the two. The easiest thing to look at is the shape of the leaves. The Heartleaf Philodendron has a distinctly heart-shaped leaf – the base of the leaf curves inward just like the top of a heart. The base of the Pothos doesn’t have this curve. Heartleaf Philodendrons can survive in lower light than Pothos, and Pothos tend to like slightly higher temperatures. Both will grow long vines that will hang down or climb a trellis. - How Long Can a Heart Leaf Philodendron live?If you’re looking for a plant that can stay with you for years, a Heartleaf Philodendron is a great option. These plants can live amazingly long lives. When well taken care of, you can expect to have your Heartleaf Philodendron for a decade or more.
- Is a Heartleaf Philodendron Easy to Take Care Of?A Heartleaf Philodendron is quite easy to grow, which makes it a popular houseplant. Plant enthusiasts love them because of their beautiful and impressive growth, and because they’re more tolerant to low light and low humidity than other tropical plants. Keep in mind that Heartleaf Philodendron will need regular pruning for optimal growth, but this is not absolutely necessary. As it grows longer, it may need repotting every few years.
