Carol Cloud Bailey
Family
Araceae
Botanical Name
Philodendron hederaceum
Plant Common Name
Heartleaf Philodendron
General Description
Heartleaf philodendron is one of the oldest and most popular houseplants. It is an evergreen vine native to the tropical areas of the West Indies, Mexico, Central America and much of South America. Philodendron means "tree loving" and many species have two growth phases, a juvenile form and a mature form, which often look very different. Container-grown specimens almost always stay in the juvenile phase.
Its thin, climbing stems have wide spaces between the heart-shaped leaves, which are smaller when juvenile. The medium to olive green leaves are either velvety or glossy, depending on variety. The leaves of mature plants rarely appear on houseplants, especially if the plant is not allowed to climb and reach substantial size. The leaves of fully mature plants become very large and broad and are either oval or heart-shaped.
The blooms have a petal-like modified leaf, called a spathe, which surrounds a fleshy upright column of flowers, called a spadix. The blooms are either white, pale green or red tinged. The fruit is a berry that ripens to white or orange.
Philodendrons are frost and freeze sensitive and can only be planted outside in the warmest regions. They prefer fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Filtered light to full shade is best for lush, green leaves. Growth can be rampant in warm, rainy, humid locations and regular pruning is required to keep this vine in bounds. Use as a ground cover or on arbors or trellises for dependable, soft green color and a tropical look, particularly around patios, windowsills and pools.
As a houseplant, heartleaf philodendron is a common sight in malls, office buildings and homes. Container-grown specimens prefer bright, indirect light and peaty, potting soil with sand or bark for good drainage. Water regularly but avoid wet or soggy soils. Pinch vines to induce bushiness and inspect vines regularly for aphids, spider mites and scale insects. Only your imagination limits how heartleaf philodendrons may be used; they are popular for baskets, topiaries and desktops the world over.
