Houseplants have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for a good reason. They not only add an aesthetic touch to our homes but also offer numerous benefits to their owners. From purifying the air we breathe to providing natural mood-boosting effects, houseplants are a must-have in every household. However, caring for these plants can be daunting, especially for beginners. That’s why, in this article, we will focus on one particular houseplant, the Philodendron Domesticum, and provide you with tips and tricks on how to care for it properly. So, if you’re a plant enthusiast or looking to add some greenery to your home, keep on reading!
The Philodendron domesticum or Burgundy Philodendron, also known as the Spade-Leaf Philodendron, is a popular living decor choice for homes due to its ease of care and aesthetic appeal. As part of the Philodendron genus, which has approximately 450 species of climbing and stemmed herbs, this plant is native to tropical America. To ensure optimal growth of the Philodendron Domesticum, it is recommended to provide it with a dimly lit environment and high humidity. This plant thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 55 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (12 to 26 degrees Celsius).
One notable feature of the Burgundy Philodendron is the slightly purple hue on its stems and leaf edges. Its glossy leaves make it an excellent choice as an ornamental houseplant.
Apart from being grown in pots, this plant can also be suspended in hanging baskets for a more visually appealing display in any room of the house.
History of the plant
| Scientific Name | Philodendron Bipennifolium |
| Common Name | Spade-Leaf Philodendron, Burgundy Philodendron, |
| Family | Araceae |
| Origin | not native to North America |
| Height | 5 feet tall |
| Soil | Well drain soil |
| Water | When the soil dries deep two inches |
| Sunlight | Diffused bright light |
| Temperature | 75-85F |
| Humidity | 50 to 80% |
| Toxic to Cats & Dogs | Yes |
| Hardiness zone | USDA Zones 4b-11 |
| Pests | Aphids, mealybugs, scale, spider mites |
| Diseases | Root rot |
Features of Philodendron Domesticum
The Philodendron Domesticum possesses identifiable features such as its lengthy, lustrous, and textured spade-shaped green leaves with reddish-purple stems. These leaves are both slim and durable, granting them the flexibility to bend without breaking and grow in any desired trajectory. Moreover, The Philodendron Domesticum is an ideal plant for climbing. If you desire to add a jungle ambience to your abode, providing it with a climbing pole or placing it atop a bookshelf is recommended to attain the desired aesthetic.
How to care for Philodendron Domesticum
After recognizing The Philodendron Domesticum from its family members, it’s important to learn the optimal approach for nurturing your new plant addition. Fortunately, this houseplant is among the easiest to maintain, so proper care should not be difficult.However, the low-maintenance nature of The Philodendron Domesticum doesn’t imply that it only requires water and sunlight to prosper. Even the simplest plants necessitate the proper aids to thrive. As a result, let’s delve into the care guidelines for your Philodendron Domesticum!
Philodendron Domesticum
Light requirement for Philodendron Domesticum
The Philodendron domesticum prefers low-light settings for optimal growth. While experimenting with brighter light, I found that my plant grew rapidly but required constant fertilization to sustain this growth. In addition, increased light meant increased moisture needs. However, I discovered that my Philodendron was happiest with a balance of both low and bright light, similar to the tropical canopy. Otherwise, the leaves turn yellow under direct light or become leggy under insufficient light. For more information on achieving the optimal lighting conditions for your Philodendron, please refer to our article on light and plant growth.
Temperature requirements
As the Philodendron Domesticum is indigenous to South America, it naturally thrives in temperate weather conditions. This makes it an ideal choice for houseplants as the warm temperatures found inside most homes mimic its preferred climate. For optimal growth, it’s best to maintain the temperature range between 12 to 26 degrees Celsius (55-80 o F). During the summer months, some plant enthusiasts prefer to keep the Philodendron Domesticum outside. However, it’s essential to bring it indoors during winter as this plant is sensitive to temperatures below 55 o F.
When locating the plant inside your home, it’s advisable to keep it away from entryways and windows to avoid exposure to cold draughts. It’s also important to elevate it away from stoves and ovens, as the Philodendron Domesticum is not fond of overly warm conditions.
Remember that if you’re comfortable in your house temperature, your Domesticum will be too. To learn more about the optimal temperature range for your Philodendron plant, be sure to read our article on the topic.
Position for Domesticum plant
When it comes to the best position for Philodendron Domesticum (also known as the Split Leaf Philodendron or Swiss Cheese Plant), it depends on whether you are growing it indoors or outdoors.
For indoor cultivation, place your Philodendron Domesticum in a spot that receives bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. It thrives in warm and humid environments, so ensure a moderate level of humidity in the room.
If you are growing Philodendron Domesticum outdoors, choose a location with partial shade or filtered sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf burn. Make sure the plant is protected from strong winds as they can damage the delicate leaves.
Overall, providing the right amount of light and protection will help your Philodendron Domesticum thrive and display its beautiful foliage.
Watering requirement for Philo Domesticum plant
Proper watering is crucial for the healthy growth of Philodendron plants. I suggest giving the plant just enough water so that it can drain out of the hole beneath the pot. This will help to keep the soil moist, and you should discard any remaining water to prevent the plant from sitting in it for an extended period.To determine the optimal time for your next watering, give the soil surface a quick check. If it feels dry, it’s safe to water again. Checking the top layer of soil is also an effective way to prevent root rot and overwatering.
For more detailed tips on watering your Philodendron, be sure to check out our article on the subject.
Humidity requirement for Philodendron Domesticum
The Philodendron Domesticum thrives in moderate humidity, but my home’s air conditioning and fans tend to reduce moisture levels. To counter this, I resort to artificial means to maintain adequate humidity. One cost-effective method is to place the plant in a tray filled with pebbles and water. As the water evaporates, it creates a humid environment around the plant.
Another option is to lightly mist the plant every two days, with more frequent watering required during the growing season. In winter, I reduce the frequency to every three to four days.
The most effective approach, though potentially less cost-conscious, is utilizing a humidifier. This device performs exceptionally well on colder days, notably during the winter season
To avoid confusion, I suggest creating a chart or setting a mobile alarm to help keep track of misting schedules. For more tips on maintaining optimal humidity levels for your Philodendron plant, check out our Humidity article.
Potting and Repotting of Spade-Leaf Philodendron
Spade-Leaf Philodendron is known for its fast growth. To maintain the plant’s growth, new growths are usually pinched off and the plant is repotted. Late winter or spring is the perfect time to repot Philodendron Domesticum.
Here are steps to follow when repotting:
Fertilizing Philodendron Domesticum Variegated
The Philodendron Domesticum is a type of plant with spade-like long leaves that require regular fertilization to maintain their health and glossy texture.For the beginning of the growing season, slow-release pellets can be used, while liquid fertilizer is recommended on a weekly basis.
During winter, fertilizing the Philodendron Domesticum once or twice a month is suggested. In cases where new leaves appear pale, it is most likely because the plant lacks calcium and magnesium. However, excessive fertilization can have negative effects on the plant’s growth, such as stunted growth, burned leaf margins, and even death. For more information on how to fertilize the Philodendron plant, please refer to our article.
Perfect Soil for Burgundy Philodendron
For optimal growth, Burgundy Philodendron thrive in potting soil that is rich and loose. It is important that the soil is well-drained and contains a high amount of organic matter. The most popular type of soil for Philodendrons is sphagnum peat moss, with a recommended pH level of 5.0-6.0, which is slightly acidic.It is recommended to maintain a balance between moist and wet soil. While the plant requires a moderate amount of water, overly wet soil can lead to root rotting, which can be fatal for your Philodendron Domesticum.
Pruning Philodendron mature plant
Frequent pruning is not necessary for Philodendron Domesticum, but it can be done for aesthetic purposes or to eliminate dead or damaged leaves. Personally, I have found that pruning can be beneficial as it allows me to collect new plants and gift some to friends. If the leaves start turning brown, gently snapping them off or cutting them close to the base can help.
Over time, the stems of the Domesticum plant may begin to resemble a trunk. To achieve a more tree-like appearance, removing lower leaves can be effective. Scissors or secateurs can be used for this purpose, but it is important to wear gloves as the plant contains toxic sap that can irritate the skin or be harmful if ingested.
For a detailed guide on pruning your Philodendron, be sure to check out our resources.
Propagation of Philodendron Domesticum
The Philodendron Domesticum can be propagated using different techniques, including stem cutting and air layering.
Stem Cutting:
I prefer using the stem-cutting method, choosing a leaf node that is intact, and cutting a part of the plant from which roots emerge. To propagate the stem, I place it in water or moist soil, depending on my preferred method. If I choose water, I use a jar and observe for any root development while keeping it in a warm spot. For soil propagation, I clip the stem’s ends and dip it in a rooting hormone before planting it in moist soil and offering gentle support.
Air Layering
Air layering is another plant propagation technique that I find useful. First, I identify one or two nodes in the stem and wrap them with a moist moss using cling film. I keep the moss moist while waiting for roots to appear. This technique enables me to encourage new plant growth while still attached to the parent plant.
For more detailed information on successfully propagating your Philodendron plant, check out our guide.
Is Philo Domesticum Toxic to Pets?
Consumption of some substances by cats, dogs, and parrots can lead to mild to moderate toxicity, resulting in vomiting and irritation of the oral cavity. In case you suspect your feline has ingested any of these substances, it is advisable to reach out to your veterinarian promptly.
Common Issues with Philodendron Domesticum
The Philodendron Domesticum, a tropical plant, may encounter issues such as root rot and stunted growth due to insufficient fertilizer. In addition, it may also be susceptible to diseases and pests.
Powdery mildew
One disease that may infect the Philodendron Domesticum is powdery mildew. This fungus thrives in moist and shady conditions, making the leaves vulnerable. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure that the plant is in an area with better air circulation. If it returns, spraying the leaves with fungicide every four days until the mildew clears is recommended.
Erwinia blight
It is the most common and fatal disease. Symptoms include yellowing and smaller leaves, lesions filled with water on the Philodendron Domesticum stem, and an unpleasant smell from the dying plant. Minimizing watering and avoiding excessive fertilization can help control this disease.
Pseudomonas leaf spot
Black-edged lesions form on the leaf containing brown and yellow spots. If left untreated, the leaves become papery and delicate, breaking at the slightest touch. Overhead watering should be avoided, and copper fungicide can be used to control bacterial growth.
Xanthomonas leaf spot
It can occur in highly humid conditions of 70-90 degrees Fahrenheit. The bacterium infects the Philodendron Domesticum through wounds, pores, and stomata under the leaf surface, causing leaves to slowly turn yellow and eventually fall off. Avoiding mechanical injuries can help prevent this disease.
Pests
For your Philodendron Domesticum to dry faster, it is recommended to water it in mid-morning. By doing so, the bacteria in the transmission medium will be removed thereby preventing its growth.
One of the common pests that infest Philodendron Domesticum is the mealybug. These plant-sucking pests thrive in high-temperature conditions and can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. To control their growth, I usually apply alcohol to the infested area. It is essential not to overwater or over-fertilize the plant as this will only encourage the mealybugs to propagate.
Aphids are also common pests that infest indoor plants like Philodendron Domesticum. These highly mobile insects can cause stunted and sickly-looking new foliage which could lead to leaf fall if the infestation is not treated. To prevent their growth, I use insecticidal soap or neem oil which has fungicidal and insecticidal properties. It is safe to use on ornamental plants and is easily available in the market. If your Philodendron Domesticum is infested with aphids, it is recommended to isolate it from the rest of the plants immediately.
FAQ
How do I care for Philodendron Domesticum?
To care for Philodendron Domesticum, place it in a well-draining potting mix, water it when the top inch of soil feels dry, and provide it with indirect or filtered sunlight. Avoid overwatering and ensure proper humidity levels.
What is the best position for Philodendron Domesticum?
The best position for Philodendron Domesticum is a spot with bright, indirect light. It thrives in locations where it receives moderate to bright, filtered sunlight.
Can Philodendron Domesticum be grown indoors?
Yes, Philodendron Domesticum can be grown indoors successfully. It adapts well to indoor environments and can thrive as a houseplant with the right conditions of light, temperature, and humidity.
How often should I water Philodendron Domesticum?
Watering frequency for Philodendron Domesticum depends on various factors such as temperature, humidity, and potting mix. Generally, water it when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring not to overwater or let it sit in waterlogged conditions.
What kind of soil does Philodendron Domesticum prefer?
Philodendron Domesticum prefers a well-draining soil mix that retains some moisture while allowing excess water to drain. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and organic matter like compost works well.
Does Philodendron Domesticum require a lot of sunlight?
Philodendron domesticum prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate lower light conditions, but too much direct sunlight may scorch its leaves. Place it near a window with filtered light or provide artificial grow lights.
How can I propagate Philodendron Domesticum?
Philodendron Domesticum can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take a cutting with at least two nodes, remove the lower leaves, and place it in a moist rooting medium until roots develop.
Is Philodendron Domesticum toxic to pets?
Yes, Philodendron Domesticum is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep it out of reach of cats, dogs, and other animals to prevent potential harm.
Why are the leaves of my Philodendron Domesticum turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves in Philodendron Domesticum can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, low light levels, or nutrient deficiencies. Assess the watering routine, light conditions, and provide appropriate care to address the issue.
How big does Philodendron Domesticum grow?
Philodendron Domesticum can grow up to several feet in height, with its large leaves reaching around 12 inches in length. However, the exact size may vary depending on the growing conditions and care provided.
