Philodendrons are among the most popular houseplants because of their aesthetic appeal and ability to purify indoor air. Within this diverse family of plants, the Philodendron verrucosum stands out with its stunning heart-shaped leaves and golden ribbing. With the ability to grow up to 3 feet tall or more, this climbing plant adds a fresh tropical vibe to any space. Although caring for this plant might be a bit complicated, the rewards of having a healthy Philodendron verrucosum are priceless.
How to do verrucosum philodendron care?
Maintaining Philodendron verrucosum plant care can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to regulating temperature and humidity. However, the plant’s vibrant and astonishing foliage makes the effort worthwhile. To best provide for your plant’s needs, read on for this Verrucosum care guide
What unique about Verrucosum Philodendron
One of the first things people notice about Philodendron verrucosum is its velvety deep green leaves. These leaves make the plant look like it is covered in a layer of soft fur. The leaves feature a ribbed texture that gives them a striking appearance that is different from other Philodendron species.
Another distinct feature of Philodendron verrucosum is its leaf blade with a red backside. The vibrant and broadly patterned leaves of P. verrucosum make for a perfect addition to your plant collection. They can grow up to 8-36 inches in size when mature, creating a magnificent display in your home or garden.
Philodendron verrucosum belongs to the plant family Araceae and is native to Costa Rica, Panama, Columbia, Peru, and Ecuador. It is considered a hemiepiphyte, which means it starts off its life cycle from a seed growing on trees and then develops roots that eventually reach the soil.
| Botanical Name | Philodendron verrucosum |
| Light needs: | Indirect bright light |
| Hardiness Zone | 9 to 11. |
| Common names | Ecuador Philodendron, Verrucosum Plant |
| Watering needs: | Water when soil dries up to two inches |
| Fertilizer: | During Spring and Summer |
| Soil: | Perlite, High organic matter,weldrain |
| Humidity: | Water when the soil dries up to two inches |
| Temperature: | 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) |
| Where to buy: | Etsy, Walmart, Amazon local nurseries |
| Toxicity | Toxic for humans Toxic for pets |
Humidity Requirements for Philodendron Ecuadoriana
Philodendron verrucosum thrives in a tropical atmosphere with a humidity level of 70 to 90%. Increasing humidity indoors can be challenging, but you can use a humidifier or set up a pebble tray, occasional misting, or establish it in a terrarium or bathroom.
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Fertilizing Philodendron Verrocosum
Apply fertilizer at least thrice a year since Philodendron verrucosum is not considered a heavy feeder. Use any slow-release feed for your plant, especially during summer and spring when the plant is actively growing. Avoid cheap fertilizers as they tend to accumulate in the soil over time.
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Water requirement for Verrucosum plant
Do not overwater Philodendron verrucosum. These plants love sufficient moisture, but they don’t like to sit in overly saturated soil. Watering needs may vary with the prevailing season, with increased watering during summer and reduced watering in winter. Water Verrucosum only when the top two inches of the soil feel dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rotting, leading to yellowing of leaves, leaf tissue decay, and stunted growth.
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Best Soil for Verrucosum Philodendron
As a hemiepiphytic plant, the soil for Verrucosum usually consists of high organic matter and a well-draining substrate. Aeration is a must for most species of Araceae, so add perlite and rice hulls to provide texture and improve soil mix’s porosity. To create the ideal Philodendron verrucosum soil, mix 30% garden soil with 30% orchid bark or perlite, and add at least 10% charcoal.
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Pruning Philodendron painted lady mature plant
Philodendron verrucosum pruning is typically done only when you want to shape your plant or limit its climbing. Use a sterile shear or pruning knife, remove and trim some of the spent foliage to prevent infestation and infections.
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Re-potting philodendron painted lady
Philodendron verrucosum likes to develop an extensive root system but does not like to be root-bound. Repot once every one or two years, choosing a new container at least twice the current pot size to accommodate more growth. Prepare a fresh potting mix and fill half of the container; gently place the root ball in the center of the pot, and fill with the remaining soil.
How to propagate Verrucosum philodendron?
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Philodendron verrucosum propagation can be done through stem cuttings, air layering, and seeds. To propagate through cuttings, select a healthy stem about 4-6 inches long with 2-3 leaves, cut below the node with a sterile scissor, and place it into a jar of water. You can also plant the cuttings into potting soil until roots begin forming. For air layering, put sphagnum moss in the node portion and cover it with plastic. After a few weeks, roots should begin forming. Water newly potted plants regularly and place them in a bright spot with lots of indirect light.
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Is Verrucosum philodendron toxic?
It is recommended to keep this plant out of reach, especially from children.For pets, the Verrucosum plant is also toxic to cats and dogs, and symptoms such as restlessness, bloody urine or stool, facial irritation, and difficulty in swallowing may appear if ingested. It is best to keep the plant away from areas accessible to pets, or consider growing it outdoors. Quick action is required if any of these symptoms appear in humans or pets. Contact a physician or veterinarian as soon as possible. Taking these preventive measures can ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment of indoor plants.
Appearance of Verrucosum philodendron
The Philodendron verrucosum is an ornamental plant that adds a tropical vibe to any space. Its vibrant foliage boasts a velvety ribbed texture and striking colors that make it highly desirable. The heart-shaped leaves initially appear in lighter shades of green, which later turn into deep green and then burgundy upon maturity. The foliage also has interesting petioles and fascinating leaf blades with deep-green coloration and light-green venation.
The plant is a climber and grows well with support, making it a great climbing specimen or focal point in ornamental gardens. The Philodendron verrucosum flowers when it transitions from juvenile to reproductive stages. During the blooming period, dainty flowers open up to a cone-shaped spathe, which encloses the spadix and has a few color splashes.
The plant’s growth rate is medium, but with optimum conditions and adequate fertilizer, it can grow faster. To encourage thicker stems, more growth, and the desired length, adding a stake or moss pole can help. Although there is no recognized scent attributed to the Philodendron verrucosum fragrance, it emits an unpleasant odor when infected with fungal or bacterial infections.
To prevent the spread of infection, always remove the diseased portion of the plant using sterile shears or a pruning knife. You can use fungicides, neem oil, and citronella to treat and clean the leaves, respectively.
The plant is ideal for indoor use, as it can purify the air and get rid of harmful pollutants, making it perfect for placement in kitchens and bathrooms. Its alluring foliage makes it an excellent ornamental plant and can be maintained as a pot plant or encouraged to climb with the use of a pole. The Philodendron verrucosum is a stunning plant that rewards plant lovers with its unique persona, colors, and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What type of soil is best for Verrucosum philodendron plant?
Verrucosum philodendrons prefer well-draining soil with a pH level between 5.5 to 7.0. A soil mix containing peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal.
How often should I fertilize my Verrucosum philodendron plant?
During the growing season, fertilize your Verrucosum philodendron plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. In the winter, reduce fertilization to once a month.
How do I propagate Verrucosum philodendron plant?
Verrucosum philodendrons are propagated through stem cuttings. Take a healthy stem cutting with at least two leaves, and place it in water or soil. Once roots develop, transplant it into its own pot.
What are the common pests and diseases that affect Verrucosum philodendron plant?
Spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs can be common pests for Verrucosum philodendrons. Keep an eye out for yellowing or spotted leaves as that can indicate infestation. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can be used to treat the plant. Rotting roots or yellowing leaves can indicate over-watering or a fungal disease, and the plant may need to be repotted or treated with a fungicide.
Can Verrucosum philodendron plant grow in water?
Yes, Verrucosum philodendrons can grow in water, but it’s important to change the water regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria and algae.