Fitting almost every space, Heartleaf Philodendron displays its beauty much more when located in the correct spot in the house. Due to having a stunning look, this houseplant has become one of the irreplaceable plants. Heartleaf Philodendron has a few well-known names, for example, Philodendron Scandens and sweetheart plant. Also, its scientific name is Philodendron Hederaceum. Besides, these plants’ varieties match with Heart of Jesus and Peacock Plant in terms of the foliage shape. Despite possessing plenty of its kind, this plant originates from Central America and the Carrabians. What’s more interesting, this houseplant enhances the quality of the air from airborne toxins.
General Information
Heartleaf Philodendron generally has heart-shaped foliage glowing like emerald and thin stems creeping around pots. Alternatively, such plants can be kept bushy by pruning. As for flowering, this houseplant has white spadix. But it blooms very rarely under room conditions. Provided mimicked its natural conditions perfectly, it can bloom. What makes this plant beautiful is its outstanding leaves. For that reason, Whether it blooms or not isn’t significant that much. Besides, this plant’s length can change according to its conditions and how properly it gets nursed. Roughly, its length could reach up to 4 ft (1,2 m). In terms of the life cycle, this plant is one of the perennial evergreens. Moreover, Heartleaf Philodendron is a toxic plant for pets. Although it isn’t clear how much poisonous this houseplant is, symptoms that are shown on any living may change.
How to Care For Philodendron hederaceum
Sunlight: Just like other plants, Philodendron hederaceum is vulnerable to direct sunlight all day long. Instead, semi-shade spots and locations taking diffused sunlight would be proper for this houseplant.
Watering: Such plants need weekly watering. Also, this plant’s soil should dry out between waterings.
Humidity: This houseplant likes high humidity. It thrives better in such conditions. To ensure it, you can use humidifiers, wet little stone trays, and water spray. Also, moss poles are suitable for such plants.
Temperature: 60°F – 75°F (15,5°C – 24°C) would be the best temperature range for this houseplant. Cold and warm drafts and sudden weather fluctuations hurt this houseplant. According to the USDA plant hardiness map, it grows better in zones 10-11.
Soil Type: Heartleaf Philodendron prefers chalky and sandy soils. Such soils ensure this houseplant thrives better. Also, they provide better drainage rather than other soils.
Fertilizer: Water-soluble fertilizers are quite effective in the growing season of the plant in question. Except for the dormancy times, the plant with heart-shaped leaves should be fed monthly.
Propagation: Stem tip cutting with at least three leaves is the most common propagation way for this houseplant. After each cutting is planted in each pot, they would start growing slowly within a month.
Repotting: In case of outgrowing, repotting requires for this plant just like other plants. Generally, the pot-changing process begins in spring. Also, the propagation of plants is done at the same time as possible. Firstly, you should take a bigger pot than the existing pot. Besides, it is important to be watered the plant the day before to prevent the transplant shock.
Common Problems
Leaf drop: This problem could stem from multiple poor factors. For example, overwatering, little watering, too much stress may lead to such problems.
Pest infestation: Mealybugs, aphids, mites, scales, red spiders, and so on may get trouble to Heartleaf Philodendron. Especially, poor conditions and long-term neglect invite such harmful little creatures to invade the plant.
Root rot: Generally, overwatering or somehow the way the water doesn’t reach into the roots cause root rot.
Suggestions for problems: Leaf drops could happen due to seasonal reasons. Outside of this, you can fix this problem with the proper care schedule. For example, after you appoint a watering or fertilizing time, your work would be simple. On the other hand, pest infestation is a big deal. Neem oils, alcohol-based wipes, and pesticide soap could do a great job. After removing pests, you can clean the leaves with a damp cloth. When it comes to root rot, first of all, check if the root is dead or alive. If it died, you have to throw it into the trash bin. But if alive, go on its routine watering.
