Get ready to fall in love with a new addition to your plant collection! Philodendron hederaceum ‘Moonlight’ is not your ordinary plant, boasting leaves that look almost fluorescent. This particular species of Philodendron is not only loved for its stunning appearance but also for how easy it is to care for. Whether you’re looking to jazz up your indoor space or add some greenery to your outdoor garden, Philodendron Moonlight may be the perfect fit. Keep reading to learn more about this charming plant.
Meet the Moonlight Philodendron!
Moonlight philodendron plant stands out from the rest with its striking, luminous leaves. But there’s more to this plant than just its eye-catching appearance – it also has impressive air-purifying abilities. Philodendron Moonlight is a hybrid variety of Philodendron, and its parent plants originate from the tropical and subtropical canopies of Central and South America. Some avid gardeners may recognize it as the Moonlight Philodendron or Lime Philodendron. However, no matter what you call it, this plant is a unique and exciting addition to any indoor environment.
| Scientific Name | Philodendron hederaceum ‘Moonlight’ |
| Common Name | Moonlight Philodendron, Lime Philodendron, Sweetmoon Philodendron |
| Family | Araceae |
| Origin | Central and South America |
| Height | 1-2 feet |
| Soil | Well drain soil |
| Water | When the soil dries deep two inches |
| Sunlight | Bright indirect |
| Temperature | More than 50% percent |
| Humidity | More then 50% percent |
| Toxic to Cats & Dogs | Yes |
| Hardiness zone | USDA Zones 10 to 11 |
| Pests | Aphids, mealybugs, scale, spider mites |
| Diseases | Root rot |
Moonlight Philodendron Care
For moonlight care, there are three fundamental factors to consider. First is the adequate amount of sunlight. The second is giving it sufficient water. Lastly, it requires an ample supply of nutrients for its growth. By and large, maintaining and nurturing this plant is a breeze, making it ideal for novice gardeners. Here are some additional pointers for Philo Moonlight care in detail.
Light Requirement for Philo Moonlight
For the philo moonlight plant’s lighting requirements, an ideal position would be an east-facing window. This will provide a few hours of direct sunlight in the morning, followed by indirect sunlight for the remainder of the day. Given the plant’s sensitivity to strong light, it is best to avoid full sun exposure. Should you choose to plant the Philodendron Moonlight outside, aim for a spot that is shaded with dappled light, such as under a tree canopy. This environment mimics the plant’s natural habitat, and partial sunlight is sufficient to meet its lighting needs.
Temperature
The Philodendron Moonlight thrives in a temperature range of 65 to 80ºF (18 to 27ºC), which is ideal given its tropical origin. However, it is essential to note that its temperature tolerance does not go below 55ºF (13ºC). Therefore, if your plant is near a window, ensure to relocate it somewhere warm during the night to maintain a typical indoor temperature. Extremely cold temperatures can be detrimental to the Moonlight Philodendron, so it would be wise to place a curtain in your windows to serve as an extra layer of protection. For optimal growth, it is best to cultivate this plant outdoors in regions under USDA hardiness zones’ 10 to 11.
Position
Consider placing it near an east-facing window. This location will provide the plant with a couple of hours of direct sunlight in the morning, followed by indirect sunlight for the remainder of the day. The Philodendron Moonlight prefers such conditions as it is sensitive to intense light. Direct exposure to full sun should be avoided.
Watering Philodendron Moonlight
Proper watering is essential for maintaining healthy Philodendron Moonlight plants. To ensure optimal growth, it is recommended to water the plant moderately. Wait until the soil is dry to about 1 inch deep before watering. This is the perfect time to give your plants a good shower. However, overwatering is a common mistake that could lead to root rot. It is crucial to exercise caution when watering it. Always ensure that excess water drains out of the pot to prevent this issue. During spring and summer, water your Philo Moonlight plants once a week. Adjust accordingly during the winter season.
Humidity Requirement for Philo Moonlight
To keep your Philodendron Moonlight healthy, it needs to be in an environment with high humidity. Ideally, the room should have a humidity level of at least 50% or more. If the humidity is lower, then certain adjustments will need to be made. One way to provide the required level of humidity for the Philodendron Moonlight is to mist the plant occasionally. This is particularly important during times when the humidity is low, such as in the winter months. Alternatively, if you have a humidifier, it can be used to save time and labor. It is recommended to mist or use a humidifier in the morning so that excess moisture can evaporate throughout the day. For more information on the humidity requirements for other Philodendron species, please refer to our detailed article.
Perfect Soil for Philodendron Moonlight plant
As a writing assistant, here’s my attempt to rewrite the content keeping as many words from the original as possible: For Philo Moonlight, soil that is moist and well-draining is unbeatable. Whether you choose a soil-based or soilless mixture, ensure that it’s loose. If you opt for a soil mix, don’t forget to add organic matter. For a soilless mix, you can combine peat-vermiculite, peat-perlite, or even use 100% sphagnum moss.
These combinations can help you achieve a potting mix that supplies adequate nutrients, oxygen, and water to grow Philodendron Moonlight.
To maintain the correct pH level, keep it between 5 to 7 (acidic to neutral). We highly recommend that you sterilize the Philodendron Moonlight soil before planting. You can also read our comprehensive article on the best soil for philodendron spices for more information.
Fertilizing Philodendron Moonlight
For a lush and healthy Philodendron Moonlight plant, the recommended fertilizer is the Philodendron Moonlight fertilizer. It is best to apply this fertilizer during active seasons such as spring and summer on a regular basis, once a month with all-purpose liquid fertilizer containing all the macro-nutrients. If desired, a slow-release fertilizer can also be used to provide a longer supply of nutrients over time. During winter and fall, the application should be extended to every 6 to 8 weeks. Keep in mind that excessive use of fertilizer may lead to the build-up of fertilizer salts. To prevent this from occurring, it is advisable to use overflowing water to wash off any excess fertilizer salts repeatedly. For more details on how to properly fertilize your Philodendron plant, please refer to our informative article.
Potting & Repotting
As part of your yearly routine, it is important to practice potting and repotting of your Philodendron Moonlight. This is because the plant can easily become pot-bound and needs sufficient room for its roots to grow. To accommodate this growth, you should increase the pot size and replenish the depleted soil regularly. The most suitable time for repotting your Moonlight Philodendron is during late spring or early summer. To make it easier to remove from its pot, briefly soak the soil to loosen it up. After removing excess soil and checking the roots, trim away the dead ones. Then, using a fresh potting mix, carefully place your plant in its new container and thoroughly water it. For more detailed guidance on potting and repotting your philodendron plants, please refer to our comprehensive article.
Pruning moonlight mature plant
When it comes to Philodendron Moonlight, excessive pruning isn’t necessary, but it’s helpful to trim stems and leaves that have lost shape. Removing dead, diseased, or aged foliage can discourage the spread of illnesses and promote new growth. But be careful not to overdo it, as cutting too much can prevent the plant from growing back fully. A good rule of thumb is to gently pinch off just above the nodes of each leaf. For optimal results, aim to prune during mid-Spring or Fall. For more detailed guidance on how to prune your philodendron plants, check out our comprehensive article.
Propagation
Learning how to propagate plants is a valuable skill that can help you increase the number of your beloved plants. Propagating Philo Moonlight through stem cuttings is the best and most efficient method.
Follow these steps to propagate your Philodendron Moonlight:
Common problems pests and Diseases
Philodendron Moonlight, known for its hardiness, can still encounter issues with pests, diseases, and growth. Leaves are the most common indicator of problems with Philo Moonlight.
Pests
One of the pests that can attack Philo Moonlight is mealybugs, which have a white appearance and suck sap from plant tissues, causing lesions on leaves. Other identified pests are aphids, scale, and spider mites, which can be eliminated by spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Repeat the treatment until pests are gone and isolate the plant.
Diseases
Erwinia blight disease can cause a mushy appearance of leaves and can lead to the plant’s death. Overwatering is a trigger that can spread the disease throughout roots, stems, and leaves. Prevention is the best solution. Use sterilized soil mix, avoid overwatering, and apply appropriate fungicides.
Growing Problems
Root rot is a common problem that can delay the plant’s growth. It is crucial to have healthy roots for having a healthy plant. Soggy soil can stress roots and result in growth problems like stunting. Ensure the soil is well-draining and not too moist.
For more comprehensive guidance on pest and disease management for Philodendron plants, check out our guide.
Toxicity
Be cautious when dealing with the Philodendron moonlight plant, as it has known toxicity issues that can affect both humans and pets. Although this indoor plant is aesthetically pleasing, it is important to remember its potential dangers.
For humans, Philodendron Moonlight contains high levels of calcium oxalates, which appear as white crystals. Direct contact with the plant’s sap can cause skin irritation and even dermatitis in individuals with sensitive skin. Ingestion of the plant can lead to serious complications such as mouth irritation, breathing difficulties, nausea, vomiting, swallowing pain, and loss of speech. It is crucial to avoid this plant and keep it out of reach of children.
Similarly, philodendron moonshine is equally harmful to pets. If your furry companions are likely to consume plants, it is best to avoid keeping a Philo Moonlight at home. Ingestion of any part of the plant can cause serious gastrointestinal irritation, such as drooling, vomiting, and abdominal pain. If your pets exhibit any of these symptoms, seek immediate veterinary attention. Ignoring these signs could have fatal consequences.
Receive in-depth advice on handling your dog’s consumption of philodendron if you own a dog as a pet.
Appearance
The appearance of Philodendron Moonlight is unique due to its bright green, fluorescent leaves. Unlike its creeper relatives, it has a shrublike growth habit and is easy to care for.
The spear-shaped foliage features a beautiful chartreuse and emerald green color, creating a vibrant and glossy texture. However, browning on the leaves may indicate issues with watering, temperature, humidity, or fertilization.
While primarily a foliage plant, Philo Moonlight produces pinkish-white flowers on the basal portion of the plant once it reaches maturity, which can take up to 15 years.
It has a mature size of 20-24 inches in height and 20-26 inches in spread, making it a low-growing and ideal pot plant. However, it has a fast growth rate, requiring annual repotting and adding a few inches to its size in just a week during spring and summer.
Although it doesn’t emit any fragrance from its leaves, Philodendron Moonlight does produce a noticeable fragrance on its flowers that attracts pollinators at night.
As a great air purifier, it’s perfect for indoor spaces, while its bright leaves add color to outdoor landscapes. It can also be displayed on terraces, balconies, or in greenhouses.
FAQ
What is Philodendron Moonlight?
Philodendron Moonlight is a type of Philodendron with bright, fluorescent leaves that’s also called Moonlight Philodendron or Lime Philodendron.
How to identify Philodendron Moonlight?
The plant has a low-growing habit compared to its creeping relatives and spear-shaped leaves that start lime green and turn emerald green when mature.
How to care for Philodendron Moonlight?
Ideally, keep it under bright but indirect light, with soil that’s moist but not soggy, and warm temperatures with plenty of humidity.
How to grow Philodendron Moonlight indoors?
Maintain a temperature between 65 to 80ºF (18 to 27ºC) and increase humidity through misting or a humidifier when needed.
How to grow Philodendron Moonlight outdoors?
Place it in a partly shady spot that still has bright light, but not directly touching the foliage.
How fast does Philodendron Moonlight grow?
Philo Moonlight is fast-growing and can increase by 4 inches in size per week under favorable conditions.
How tall does Philodendron Moonlight grow?
A mature Philo Moonlight reaches a height of 20 to 24 inches, as it doesn’t grow as big as other Philodendron species.
How to make Philodendron Moonlight grow faster?
Regularly adding liquid fertilizer once a month during spring and summer can help boost growth.
How to stake Philodendron Moonlight?
Since it’s a low-growing plant, Philodendron Moonlight will tend to spread and produce clumps rather than growing vertically, and thus, it won’t typically require staking.
How to pot Philodendron Moonlight?
Use a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter and choose a pot with an appropriate size to allow the roots to settle.
How to Revive Philodendron Moonlight?
Repot annually, prune aged leaves and add fertilizer to encourage rejuvenation if you notice the plant’s growth is stunted.
Why is my Philodendron Moonlight dying?
Overwatering, which can cause root rot, is likely the reason. Repot the plant if you notice yellowing leaves and a mushy appearance.
Why is my Philodendron Moonlight drooping?
Watering problems, such as overwatering or underwatering, coupled with too much heat and low humidity, are likely the culprits. Ensure the plant receives adequate moisture.
How cold can Philodendron Moonlight tolerate?
Though it can withstand temperatures between 65 to 80ºF (18 to 27ºC), if temperatures dip below 55°F (13°C), the plant is at risk of damage.
How to get rid of pests on Philodendron Moonlight?
Regularly spraying insecticidal soap or neem oil on infected parts can help eliminate pests.
Is Philodendron Moonlight toxic to cats?
Yes, the plant contains calcium oxalate crystals that could cause gastrointestinal irritation when ingested by cats.
Is Philodendron Moonlight toxic to dogs?
Yes, dogs may experience mouth, throat, stomach, and intestinal irritation if they ingest the plant’s sap.
Is Philodendron Moonlight toxic to children?
Yes, children may develop skin irritation when exposed to the sap. They could also experience mouth irritation and vomiting if they ingest plant parts.
Is Philodendron Moonlight toxic to humans?
Yes, skin irritation may occur when the sap comes into contact with the skin, and ingestion of plant parts can lead to gastrointestinal irritation due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals.
Does Philodendron Moonlight have a scent?
The leaves are scentless, but the flowers produce a fragrance that’s most noticeable at night, as they attract pollinators since Philodendrons can’t self-pollinate.
