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Philodendron Our recent trip to Hawaii was a real revelation. Tiny houseplants in Utah are huge vines growing fifty or more feet in the air. Don was even tempted to swing through the jungle doing his famous Tarzan yell. It is amazing what a tropical climate can do for a plant. Among the many plants that grew everywhere were many different types of philodendrons. Heart-leaf philodendron is still one of the most popular and best foliage plants available and is often utilized for potted plants, totem poles and hanging baskets. Its proper botanical name is now Philodendron scandens oxycardium, but over the years this plant has also been known as Philodendron oxycardium and Philodendron cordatum. Heart-leaf philodendron plants require slightly higher light levels than most other potted plants. They prefer medium light intensity but do tolerate low light. The ideal temperatures are 65 degrees at night and 85 degrees during the day. Good plant growth happens when air temperatures are70?F or above. Higher air temperatures are not damaging to heart-leaf philodendrons, as long as soil moisture is adequate and proper light levels provided. Remember that they are house plants. Even though they are among our most tolerant plants they will not tolerate cold. Keep the soil evenly moist and fertilize actively growing plants at least once a month. High humidity promotes lush foliage, however, philodendron usually tolerates the level of humidity found in most homes. They grow best with a potting media with a high water holding capacity and excellent aeration. Repot only when the roots have filled the pot. Diseases are usually not a problem as long as the plants are not overwatered. Like all interior plants they occasionally develop insect problems. For further information, see the other tip of the week. Propagation is by stem cuttings or by offsets, depending on the type of philodendron grown.
