If you love philodendron as a houseplant, youll be thrilled to know it grows outside in the South.
Philodendron (Philodendronspp.)
is a fast-growing and nearly indestructible garden plant with beautiful leathery, glossy leaves.
Credit:Adrienne Legault / Southern Living
Once established, this plant might even dazzle with a bloom that resembles that of calla (Zantedeschia).
Philodendrons fall into two main classes: arborescent and vining.
Arborescent philodendrons are relatively hardy.
Credit:Adrienne Legault / Southern Living
These large, shrub-size plants don’t climb and have big leaves and sturdy, self-supporting trunks.
They can be grown indoors but need more space than most houseplants.
These philodendrons can grow outdoors in the Coastal and Tropical South (USDA Zones 9-11).
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Vining and self-heading philodendron includes tender plants with flexible stems that allow them to climb with support.
The self-heading types form short, broad plants with leaves radiating out from a central point.
They have smooth, heart-shaped leaves and can grow outside in the Tropical South (Zone 10-11).
Plant philodendron outdoors when there is no risk of frost.
All parts of philodendrons are toxic to people, dogs, and cats.
Give philodendrons consistent moisture, but dont let them sit in water.
They dont like soggy roots.
As landscape plants, arborescent philodendrons likepartial sun.
In intense light, they need shade at midday (they can take considerable shade).
Use them for tropical effects or as massive silhouettes against walls or glass.
They stun inlarge containersand give a lush tropical look when planted near swimming pools.
Vining and self-heading philodendron require partial orfull shade.
Soil
Philodendron does well in highly organic soil.
InZone 1011, the environment is hot and humid.
It thrives in the conditions that naturally occur in this part of the country.
Fertilizer
A dose of acommercial fertilizersuch as Miracle-Gro can be beneficial twice a year.
To use, follow the package instructions.
The best time to propagate is during warmer weather in spring or summer when they are actively growing.
This will promote faster root development.
Here’s how to propagate cuttings.
If you choose to do so, buy seeds from a reputable supplier.
To start, fill small containers or a seed-starting tray with loose potting mix.
Dampen the soil, then plant seeds 1/4 inch deep.
Lightly cover with soil.
Very small seeds can be patted into the soil.
Cover the containers with clear plastic wrap to create a mini greenhouse and maintain humidity.
Place the containers in a warm, sunny spot and mist the soil as needed to keep it moist.
Remove the plastic once seedlings emerge.
Keep the soil moist, and transplant when a few sets of leaves appear.
ensure the pot is well-draining and has drainage holes.
Terracotta and clay pots allow good airflow.
When potting, use well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter.
If needed, repot when the plant outgrows the container or when the soil dries out quickly.
Drape a frost blanket or sheet over the plant to help it ride out those cold dips.
Use a spray of water from the garden hose or insecticidal soap to get rid of pests.
Check the undersides of leaves regularly to monitor pest issues.
Common Problems With Philodendron
Philodendrons can haveproblems with overwateringor poorly drained soil.
Watch for yellowing leaves or spots on the leaves, and adjust the watering schedule accordingly.
Leaves Turning Yellow
Yellowing leaves can be sparked by too much water or too little sunlight.
Adjust the environment to deal with the issue if needed by moving the plant to a sunnier location.
double-check the top inch of soil is dry before watering.
Leaf Spot
Spots on philodendron leaves indicate fungal leaf spot.
This is resulting from overwatering.
Remove any affected parts of the plant and adjust watering as needed so the soil is not soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
As houseplants, philodendrons can live 20 years or more.
Grown in their natural tropical habitat, these plants have been known to live for 100 years.
Vining types of philodendron are similar to pothos.
They have similar vining habits, growth requirements, and heart-shaped leaves.
Monstera is similar to arborescent philodendron.
It has fenestrated leaves, with holes, while philodendron leaves are split all the way through the leaf.
While philodendrons like humidity, misting them is not recommended since it can lead to fungal issues.
Misting only increases the humidity for a short time, but the leaves can remain damp.
Use a humidifier if more humidity is needed indoors.
NC State Extension.Philodendron hederaceum.
