Are you on the hunt for the perfect next addition to your indoor jungle? Look no further than the ever-popular Philodendron.!
The Philodendron genus has a vast range of varieties and cultivars, with each one being distinct and visually appealing due to its unique foliage. One of them is Philodendron squamiferum, also known as Hairy Philodendron Red or Bristle Philodendron. Because It is characterized by its red-colored bristles that grow on its stems. It’s not as commonly grown as some of its cousins, but it’s definitely worth seeking out. This species is perfect for indoor or outdoor growing and, best of all, it’s easy to care for. The climbing Philodendron squamiferum has leaves that bear a resemblance to those of Monstera deliciosa, as well as Philodendron bipennifolium and pedatum.
Trust us, once you start collecting them, it’s hard to stop. So, let’s dive into the wonderful world of Philodendrons and discover some tips and tricks for caring for these tropical beauties. Although it may be a bit more challenging to find this plant compared to some of your everyday houseplants, once you get your hands on it, taking care of it is a breeze!
How to care for a Philodendron Squamiferum
If you want to take care of your Philodendron Squamiferum, it’s best to imitate its natural habitat as closely as possible. Your plant needs a home with plenty of humidity, moisture, bright but indirect sunlight, and warmth.
To create these perfect conditions, it’s a great idea to use a well-draining potting mix that has peat moss or coconut coir mixed in. Regular fertilization of your Philodendron Mexicanum is another way to ensure that it has all the nutrients that it needs to grow and flourish. To keep the soil moist and airy, watering your plant on a regular basis is ideal.Just remember to take good care of your plant and it will reward you with its beautiful foliage for years to come!
What unique about Philodendron Squamiferum
It’s a unique species that is native to Suriname, French Guiana, and northern Brazil. Although it shares some common features with other Philodendron plants, what makes it stand out is the presence of reddish stems covered in fuzzy hair, which botanists refer to as “pubescence.” Both the leaves and stems of this plant are stunning, which is why it’s so popular among plant collectors. Growing Philodendron squamiferum is relatively easy, but you have to be cautious. Despite its beauty, this plant is highly toxic, so handle it with extra care. Nevertheless, it’s definitely a plant worth admiring!
Summary of Philodendron Squamiferum
| Botanical Name | Philodendron squamiferum |
| Light needs: | Plenty of bright, indirect light |
| Hardiness Zone | 10 to 12. |
| Common names | Red Bristle Philodendron, Hairy Philodendron |
| Watering needs: | Watering once per week is generally sufficient |
| Fertilizer: | During the growing season (typically Spring and Summer) |
| Soil: | Coarser, rich in organic matter, lighter & well-drained, |
| Humidity: | 60% or more |
| Temperature: | 50°F to 77°F (10°C to 25°C) |
| Where to buy: | Etsy, Walmart, Amazon local nurseries |
| Toxicity | It’s toxic, so keep it away from children and pets |
Philodendron Squamiferum Humidity Requirements
When it comes to taking care of your Philodendron squamiferum, don’t forget about its humidity needs. Keep in mind that this beautiful plant comes from the jungle, where there’s a lot of moisture and high humidity. It’s essential to mimick this environment if you want your Red Bristle Philodendron to thrive in your home. Generally, a humidity level of at least 60% works best for squamiferum. To achieve this, you can try grouping your tropical plants together.
By placing your P. squamiferum plant near other plants, you can increase the moisture around it by absorbing the humidity produced by other plants. Alternatively, using humidifiers can be an effective way to adjust the humidity levels in your home. You can also increase humidity levels around your plant by manually misting it with water. So, let’s step up our humidity game and make our plant babies happy!
Click here to buy the plant humidifier
Fertilizing Philodendron Squamiferum plant
To keep your Philodendron squamiferum healthy and happy, dilute its fertilizer with water at a 1:1 ratio and apply it once a month or as needed. Overdoing the fertilizer could actually be harmful to your plant, and may even lead to its immediate demise. That’s why it’s important to only apply fertilizer during the growing season, and cease application once winter comes around. While most Philodendron species do well with a balanced NPK fertilizer ratio, it’s always best to double-check the label to make sure you’re not overdoing it on any particular nutrient. Over time, fertilizer salts can accumulate in the soil of potted plants, so be sure to flush them out by thoroughly watering the soil on a regular basis. Doing this for a week should do the trick!
Click here to buy slow-release fertiliser
Water requirement for Philo Squamiferum
If you’re a proud owner of a Philodendron squamiferum, here are some friendly watering tips to keep it healthy and thriving! During hot summer days, it’s recommended to water it once a week. However, during colder winter days, adjust the watering schedule to every 12 days.
Keep in mind that this species doesn’t need much water and is quite sensitive to overwatering. So, it’s crucial to monitor the moisture level and avoid overwatering. Another trick is to wait for the first few inches of soil to dry before watering again. This will prevent water stagnation and root rot. Lastly, make sure the pot has enough drainage holes to help with proper drainage. Hope these tips help!
Click here to buy the watering can
Best Soil for Philodendron Squamiferum
When it comes to soil for Philodendron squamiferum, there are a few things to keep in mind. For starters, it’s important to choose a sandy soil mix with sphagnum moss or coco coir for best water retention and drainage. Another great option is pine barks, which are light and coarse.Aside from being well-draining and water-retaining, the soil should also be fertile. Adding organic matter is a great way to create a nutrient-rich medium. And don’t forget about pH levels – for squamiferum, slightly to moderately acidic soil (around 5.6 to 6.5) is ideal. You can easily measure pH with a pH meter and use a soil acidifier if necessary. Just make sure to sterilize the soil before potting to ensure your plant stays healthy and happy!
Click here to buy the potting soil
Pruning Philodendron Squamiferum mature plant
Since this plant grows slowly, there’s no need to constantly trim the stems and leaves. However, there may be times when you’ll want to prune spent stems and leaves to keep your plant looking attractive. Be sure to remove any aged or diseased leaves to allow your plant to focus its energy on growing strong, healthy foliage. Just remember to disinfect your tools before and after cutting to maintain good hygiene and avoid spreading any diseases. And, of course, using sharp tools will make clean cuts, keeping your plant healthy and happy.
Click here to buy pruning shears
Hairy Philo Squamiferum potting & re-potting
It’s recommended to repot the plant every two years or once it has grown about double its initial size. One clear sign that it’s time for repotting is when the roots start poking out of the drainage holes. Repotting squamiferum to a slightly larger container has several advantages. It gives the roots enough space to breathe and access resources such as water and nutrients.When choosing a new container, make sure it’s only two inches larger than the current one. Prepare a fresh soil mix as the potting medium and then transfer the whole plant to its new home. Take care not to damage the healthy roots. Once you’re done, water the plant thoroughly and let the excess moisture drain away. Late spring or early summer is the best time to repot your Philodendron squamiferum. Hope this helps!
Propagating Squamiferum philodendron
Click here to buy new Propagation Station Wall Hanging
If you’re interested in propagating your Philodendron squamiferum, I’ve got some tips for you. All you need is a stem cutting with at least one node for new roots to grow. You can either plant the cutting directly into aroid soil or let it root in clean water before transplanting it to a new pot.The best time to propagate squamiferum is during spring or summer when the plant is most active for rooting. To help conserve moisture and prevent the cuttings from drying up, consider placing a plastic dome over them during the rooting process. With a little patience and care, you’ll have a newly propagated Philodendr on squamiferum in no time!
Are Squamiferum plants toxic to pets?
Philodendron squamiferum can be seriously harmful due to toxicity concerns, which is not uncommon for any Philodendron species. A high concentration of calcium oxalates present in the plant can lead to severe health issues upon ingestion or contact with the body. It’s imperative to handle the plant with care to avoid any adverse effects on both humans and pets.Whenever you come into contact with Philodendron squamiferum, the sap of the plant can cause skin irritation due to needle-like structures that form from calcium oxalates. This can cause itching and irritation. So, wearing gloves when handling this plant is always a good idea.
Ingesting any part of the plant can have serious consequences for your health, leading to irritation in the mouth and other parts of the gastrointestinal tract. Vomiting and diarrhea are common symptoms that may occur. If you have children, keep the plant away from them to ensure their safety.
If you have furry friends at home, it’s important to be extra careful with your plants. The Hairy Philodendron, in particular, can be toxic to our beloved pets. If the calcium oxalates in this plant are harmful to humans, imagine the impact they can have on smaller animals like cats and dogs.If your furry companion ingests any part of the Hairy Philodendron, they may experience painful symptoms such as swollen mouths, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing. That’s why it’s always a good idea to keep your plant out of their reach. This will help prevent any potential mishaps and keep your pet safe.
If your pet does ingest any part of the plant and begins exhibiting symptoms of toxicity, it’s best to immediately seek help from your veterinarian. Remember to always prioritize the safety and wellbeing of your furry friends!
From where I can buy a Squamiferum Philodendro?
Etsy is an excellent option for those who do not have access to rare plant shops or prefer the convenience of shopping from home. There are numerous plant sellers on Etsy, many of whom specialize in rare and uncommon species like the Mexicanum Philodendron.
Alternatively, if you’re fortunate enough to live near a rare plant shop, they may carry the Mexicanum Philodendron. These shops specialize in harder-to-find plants and often have a rotating selection of unique species. Additionally, you’ll have the advantage of inspecting the plant in person before making a purchase.
Pests, Diseases & Leaves Problems With Philodendron Squamiferum
Encountering problems with your beloved Philodendron squamiferum is pretty common. Even the strongest of plants can fall under the weather from time to time, especially when faced with too much stress. One of the noticeable issues is the discoloration of leaves, either yellowing or browning. Root rot is another common problem that can be fatal to your plant and is caused by overwatering.
Pests
Dealing with pests in your Philodendron squamiferum plant can be a real headache if not addressed early. Those pesky little bugs like aphids, scales, mealybugs, and spider mites might love your plant, but they are not welcome guests. These unwanted visitors suck out the sap, causing destruction to the plant’s tissues and leaving unsightly lesions on the leaves and stems which can result in discoloration.
The good news is that most of these squamiferum pests are relatively easy to handle. The first thing you need to do is take action as soon as you spot them. You can try using pressurized water to spray them off your plant. Alternatively, you can use a soapy water solution or a diluted neem oil mix to get rid of them for good. Don’t worry, you got this!
Growing Problem
Are you worried about the health of your Philodendron squamiferum?
Stunted growth might indicate that your plant is sick and suffering from root rot, which can make it difficult for it to absorb water and nutrients. Keep an eye out for yellowing leaves and mushy stems, as they are common symptoms.
Aside from root rot, your plant could be facing other growing problems like lack of light, overexposure to bright light, low humidity, and unfavorable temperatures.
To ensure your plant’s health, it’s a great idea to monitor these conditions and observe any signs of stress or symptoms that your plant may display. Remember, a healthy and happy plant is a happy you!
Click here to buy the Neem oil
Diseases
A few notable diseases are bacterial leaf spot, bacterial blight, and tip curl. Don’t fret, with prompt action, your plant can recover from these conditions. Bacterial leaf spot is characterized by tiny spots on the edges of the leaves, causing them to become brittle. To help combat this disease, try applying a copper fungicide.
Bacterial blight can cause dark green spots that lead to wet rot with a pungent odor. If you spot this on your squamiferum, the best course of action is to immediately remove the infected parts. This disease could quickly spread to other areas of the plant.
Tip curl happens when the leaf tips start to curl inwards. This is mostly due to fertilizer burns. The solution to this is simple – leaching. Give your plant a nice soak to rinse out the excess fertilizer from the soil. Your Philodendron squamiferum will be looking healthy and happy again in no time!
Appearence
Philodendron squamiferum has a rather unique appearance thanks to the presence of red, hairy bristles on its youthful stems. This is known as pubescence and it serves to safeguard the plant and manage moisture levels by reducing evaporation. While it is mainly a foliage plant, it does have the ability to produce flowers.The foliage of this plant is characterized by its dark green color and five-lobed shape, with hairy, red petioles. The shape is similar to that of the Monstera deliciosa, but without the fenestrations. Juvenile leaves are a lighter shade of green than mature leaves. The Philodendron squamiferum’s foliage is a sight to behold and adds to the beauty of any interior or exterior environment.
Keeping the plant healthy is key to maintaining its vibrant and lush appearance. Unhealthy plants can show symptoms such as discoloration, curling, or wilting depending on the ailment. To keep the plant looking its best, it is recommended to prune unhealthy leaves.
Philodendron squamiferum blooms from May to July, but only if it’s mature enough for reproduction. Its flowers are not very attractive and have no ornamental value. The plant produces a finger-like spadix enclosed by a pinkish spathe that contains small flowers which can later be used for propagation. However, it’s rare for this plant to bloom indoors, so keep your expectations low.When grown indoors, Philodendron squamiferum can grow up to 18 inches in length due to limited potting, compared to its potential height in its natural habitat where it can climb up to tree canopies. It has a slow growth rate, but repotting and pruning will encourage growth. Treat it well, and it will grow healthily and happily.
Philodendron squamiferum’s flowers have a noticeable scent during the nighttime, resembling that of a lily. However, the scent doesn’t last long, and the foliage doesn’t have any scent. Regardless, the plant has a high ornamental value due to the beauty of its foliage. You can plant it both indoors and outdoors, and it does well in pots, tree-climbing, and hanging baskets due to its epiphytic nature.
Overall, Philodendron squamiferum is easy to maintain and care for once cultivated. It’s a great plant for foliage display, producing fresh air around your house, and conservatory gardens.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is Philodendron Squamiferum?
Philodendron Squamiferum is a type of tropical plant native to South America with red-colored bristles on its stems.
How do I care for Philodendron Squamiferum?
To care for Philodendron Squamiferum, place it in a well-lit area with indirect sunlight, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and ensure that the humidity level is high.
What kind of soil does Philodendron Squamiferum need?
Philodendron Squamiferum requires soil that is well-draining and rich in organic matter.
What is the ideal watering schedule for Philodendron Squamiferum?
The ideal watering schedule for Philodendron Squamiferum is to water it when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Can Philodendron Squamiferum tolerate direct sunlight?
Philodendron Squamiferum cannot tolerate direct sunlight as it can damage the leaves.
How often should I fertilize Philodendron Squamiferum?
Fertilize Philodendron Squamiferum once a month from early spring to late summer (growing season) to support its growth.
How can I propagate Philodendron Squamiferum?
Propagating Philodendron Squamiferum can be done by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in either water or soil.
What are the common pests and diseases that affect Philodendron Squamiferum?
Common pests and diseases that affect Philodendron Squamiferum include spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, and root rot.
What should I do if my Philodendron Squamiferum leaves turn yellow?
Yellowing leaves on Philodendron Squamiferum may indicate overwatering or underwatering. Adjust the watering schedule accordingly.
Is Philodendron Squamiferum safe for pets?
Philodendron Squamiferum is toxic to pets if ingested.
How fast does Philodendron Squamiferum grow?
Philodendron Squamiferum can grow up to 3-5 feet in height in ideal conditions.
Can I trim my Philodendron Squamiferum?
Yes, you can trim your Philodendron Squamiferum to promote bushier growth and control its size.
How to train Philodendron Squamiferum to climb a support?
You can train Philodendron Squamiferum to climb a support by tying its stems to the support or attaching it with plant ties.
Where can I buy Philodendron Squamiferum plants?
You can buy Philodendron Squamiferum plants at local nurseries, plant shops, or online plant stores.
How do I repot Philodendron Squamiferum?
To repot Philodendron Squamiferum, select a pot one size larger than its current pot, add fresh soil, and gently transplant the plant from the old pot to the new one.
