Philodendron is an easy houseplant, available as a climber on a moss pole or trellis, or as a broad, low plant such as Xanadu and Selloum. Place it in bright light out of direct sun.
Philodendron is a large genus with many leaf shapes. In this collection you will find three growth habits:
Climbing: Philodendron hederaceum, also known as scandens, and the yellow-green 'Brasil'. They grow on a moss pole or mesh frame and are 120 to 160 cm tall. You will find more of these under Philodendron scandens.
Split leaves: Philodendron pedatum, in 120 and 130 cm. The leaves are deeply lobed and the plant also likes to climb a support.
Broad and low: Philodendron Xanadu and Selloum, from 60 to 100 cm. They grow more in width and fill a spot on the floor.
We measure height from the bottom of the pot to the tallest leaf. The plant comes in a nursery pot, and you pick a decorative pot separately.
Position and light
Most philodendrons like partial shade. They prefer a bright spot, but without harsh midday sun on the leaves. A spot a few metres from the window usually works well. If the plant gets too little light, new leaves become smaller and the stems longer. They love warmth and an even temperature, so avoid cold draughts. A bright bathroom is also a good spot, because philodendrons like somewhat more humid air.
Water and care
Water when the top layer of potting soil feels dry and do not leave water in the decorative pot. If your plant grows on a moss pole, moisten the pole now and then so the aerial roots attach better. In spring and summer you can feed once a month. Wipe large leaves with a damp cloth now and then. You will find more tips in our Philodendron care guide.
Philodendron and pets
Philodendrons contain calcium oxalate, which can irritate the mouth and throat when chewed. So keep the plant out of reach of pets and young children who nibble on leaves. Looking for more plants with a tropical feel? Take a look at the tropical plants.
Delivery
In the Netherlands your philodendron arrives in 4 to 5 working days, upright in a sturdy plant box. Delivery within the Netherlands is free from €99. If anything is damaged on the way, send us a photo and we will send you a new plant free of charge.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water a philodendron?
Water when the top few centimetres of potting soil are dry. In summer that is often once a week, in winter less often. Do not leave water in the decorative pot, because wet roots will rot.
How much light does a philodendron need?
A philodendron likes a bright spot, but not full sun. Partial shade, a few metres from the window, is ideal for most species. With too little light the plant gets smaller leaves and long, bare stems.
Is a philodendron toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes, philodendrons contain calcium oxalate. If an animal chews the leaves, it can irritate the mouth and throat. So put the plant somewhere pets and small children cannot reach it.
What is the difference between a philodendron and a monstera?
Both belong to the arum family and their care is very similar. The Monstera deliciosa develops its well-known holes and splits once the leaves mature. Philodendron is a large genus with many leaf shapes, from heart-shaped to deeply cut.
Why is my philodendron getting yellow leaves?
Yellow leaves are often caused by too much water or a pot that does not drain well. First feel whether the soil is wet and let it dry out before watering again. A single old leaf at the bottom turning yellow is normal.
Is the Philodendron toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes, the Philodendron is toxic to cats and dogs. All parts of the plant contain calcium oxalate crystals that irritate the mouth, tongue and throat when chewed, along with drooling and vomiting. Keep the plant out of reach of pets that like to nibble on it.
How big does a Philodendron get indoors?
Indoors a Philodendron grows 50 to 200 centimetres, depending on the species. Climbing types such as the Scandens can trail up to 2 metres with a moss pole, while compact types such as the Xanadu stay around 60 to 100 centimetres. At XXLplant we deliver the larger specimens at full size already.
How much water does a Philodendron need?
Water a Philodendron as soon as the top two to three centimetres of soil are dry, roughly weekly in summer and once every ten to fourteen days in winter. The soil can stay lightly moist but never soaking wet. Yellow leaves often point to too much water, drooping leaves to too little.
What is the best spot for a Philodendron?
The best spot is a bright one with indirect sunlight. The Philodendron is shade-tolerant and also does well further from the window, but grows more slowly there. Avoid harsh direct midday sun, which scorches the leaves. A spot with a stable temperature and some humidity is ideal.
What is the difference between a climbing and an upright Philodendron?
Climbing Philodendrons such as the Scandens have small heart-shaped leaves and use aerial roots to grow up a moss pole or tree. Upright types such as the Selloum and Xanadu form a bush with larger, deeply cut leaves and need no support.
