Let’s explore how you can take the best care of a beautiful and lush tropical Variegated Heart Leaf Philodendron houseplant!
Taking proper care of your plants doesn’t have to be a chore! Introducing the sweetheart or heartleaf philodendron: a plant that’s perfect for those who are less than confident in their green thumb skills. Not only are these plants hard to kill, but they come in an array of beautiful colors, so you’ll always have a cheerful companion in any space. In this blog post, we’ll be walking you through everything you need to know about how to care for your heartleaf philodendron. So, grab yourself a cup of tea, kick off your shoes, and let’s get started – in just a few easy steps you’ll be an expert in no time!
Native to the rainforests of Central and South America and discovered in 1793 by Captain William Bligh, this botanical beauty goes by a variety of names, including Heartleaf Philodendron variegated, Sweetheart plant, and Philodendron Heartleaf variegated. It thrives as an indoor plant, reaching a height of 3-4 feet, and if you’re lucky enough to live in hardiness zones 9-12, it gets to come out and play outdoors.
How to care for a Variegated Heart Leaf Philodendron Plant?
Philodendron hederaceum can be just the right pick! Not only are they relatively low maintenance, but their stunning foliage and foliage variations make them an interesting addition to any home. Keep on reading to learn how to care for this unique houseplant and make it thrive!
In addition, to care for your potted philodendrons, plant them in soil that allows for easy drainage. It is best to use well-aerated soil, and smaller pots can help prevent over-watering. You only need to re-pot the philodendron every two to three years when it becomes root bound. Make sure the pots have drainage holes and are porous.
Moreover. If you want to use a decorative pot that does not have drainage holes or porosity, then you can simply put the philodendron in a terra cotta pot and then place the terra cotta pot inside the decorative pot. Putting pebbles in the bottom of the decorative pot can also help prevent the philodendron from sitting in water.
Summary of Variegated Heart Leaf Philodendron
| Botanical Name | Philodendron hederaceum |
| Light needs: | Diffused light |
| Hardiness Zone | 9-12 |
| Common names | Heartleaf Philodendron variegated, Sweetheart plant, and Philodendron Heartleaf variegated |
| Watering needs: | Water when soil is dry |
| Fertilizer: | Monthly fertilization during growing months by applying half-strength food solution. |
| Soil: | soil that allows water drainage easily |
| Humidity: | 50% to 70%. |
| Temperature: | 70-90 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Where to buy: | Etsy, Walmart, Amazon |
| Toxicity | Toxic due to oxalic acid |
Heart leaf Philodendron hederaceum Humidity Requirements
Variegated Heartleaf Philodendron thrives in high humidity levels. The optimal humidity range for this plant is between 50% to 70%.
Investing in a humidifier is another way to ensure consistent humidity levels for your Variegated Heartleaf Philodendron. A humidifier can regulate the humidity levels in the air, which is essential for the plant’s growth and health.
One way to raise humidity levels around your Variegated Heart Leaf Philodendron is to fill a bowl with water and place it near the plant. The water will gradually evaporate, increasing the moisture in the surrounding air.
To increase the humidity levels around your Variegated Heartleaf Philodendron, you can create a pebble tray. This involves filling a shallow tray with water and placing pebbles in it. Then, place the tray under the plant. water evaporated from the tray will boost the humidity around the plant.
Fertilizing variegated heartleaf philodendron Plant
Heartleaf philodendrons are tough plants that can survive for years without fertilizer. However, they grow quickly and benefit from monthly fertilization during the spring and summer using a half-strength houseplant food solution. During fall and winter, you can fertilize the plant every other month or every three to four months.
Pay attention to your plant’s growth and only fertilize it when it is actively producing new leaves. This will help your heartleaf philodendron stay healthy and strong.
Water requirement for Variegated Heart Leaf Philodendron
Taking care of your Philodendron plant is easy, whether it is grown in soil or water. If your philodendron is in the soil, water it when half of the soil is dry. Over-watering can cause yellow leaves, and under-watering can cause brown leaves. If the plant’s leaves look wilted, it needs water. After watering, the plant will look healthy and perky.
Heartleaf philodendrons can also grow in water, but you must watch the water level closely, as the plant may drink it faster than you think. Note that if your philodendron is used to living in soil or water, it may not do well if you switch it to the other type of medium.
Is Variegated Heart Leaf Philodendron a climber?
Yes, the Variegated Heart Leaf Philodendron is a climber. It has long vines with heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 3 feet long. The plant can be trained to climb up support, such as a trellis or stake, or it can be allowed to trail down from a hanging basket.
Best Soil for Variegated Heart Leaf Philodendron
For Variegated Heartleaf Philodendrons, it is best to use a soil mix that is based on peat moss. Adding perlite to the soil mix can help improve drainage and prevent overwatering, which can be harmful to the plant. One good option for a peat moss-based mix soil is the African violet potting mix, which can help your plant grow healthy and strong.
When the soil is too wet, it can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. Ensure that the soil drains well and doesn’t hold too much moisture. Using a pot with proper drainage is essential for the plant’s aeration. A pot with drainage holes allows excess water to drain out of the soil, which promotes aeration. Ensure that the pot is not too small for the plant’s root system, as this can also affect proper aeration.
Pruning Philodendron hederaceum mature plant
Heartleaf philodendrons can be grown as hanging plants, trailing plants, or table plants. Regardless of the style you choose, regular pruning is necessary to maintain a full and healthy plant.
In addition, to encourage new growth and business, prune any leggy trails just after a node on a regular basis. Make sure to cut smoothly rather than jaggedly, and you can use scissors, pruning shears, or even your fingernails. By pruning your heartleaf philodendron, you will help it stay lush and full.
variegated heartleaf philodendron re-potting
When it’s time to repot your Philodendron, choosing the correct type of pot will make all the difference. Philodendrons, in general, favor a well-draining pot. A medium-sized terracotta, plastic, or clay pot is best for your Heartleaf Philodendron variegated.
Be sure the pot you are using has holes at the bottom for drainage and air circulation, in order to prevent root rot. An excessively large pot can also be a problem — it will stay wetter longer, discouraging root growth and creating a breeding ground for disease.
The most important part of repotting is getting the right soil. Philodendrons need soil that is fertile, moist, and porous. Before placing the philodendron in the new pot, make sure to add enough soil mix to provide support, so the roots can spread out.
Furthermore, When transferring the plant to the new pot, try to handle the roots gently. Don’t worry if some of the roots are damaged during the process — they can easily be trimmed with a sharp pair of pruning scissors if needed. Pat the soil down firmly, and then water to full saturation.
Propagating Variegated Heart Leaf Philodendron
Not only are they incredibly attractive, but they’re incredibly easy to propagate. Plus, they love to stay alive – sounds like a win-win. Let’s take a look at how you can get started propagating your own philodendrons.
The first step is removing a branch from your philodendron. You’ll need to make sure that there are at least a couple of nodes on the branch – this is visible as a white bump where a leaf used to be. If you’re not seeing enough nodes, you can carefully remove a few of the leaves near the branch and you should be able to spot them.
Now, you’ve got several options when it comes to propagating your philodendrons. You can place the cutting directly into potting soil, which is great if you’re looking to transplant your babies outdoors. You can also place the cuttings in a glass of water and let them take root there. Whichever way you choose, be sure to give your philodendron babies plenty of sunlight and water.
That’s it! It’s really that simple to propagate philodendrons. With a little bit of patience and a lot of love, your babies will be well on their way to becoming new members of your plant family. Good luck – let us know how it goes!
Are Variegated Heart Leaf Philodendron plants toxic to pets?
Philodendron Plants are poisonous to humans and animals. Eating any part of the plant, or even coming in contact with its sap, can cause discomfort and health problems such as burning and swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat, vomiting, and diarrhea. According to the ASPCA, dogs, cats, and kids could be affected by philodendron poisoning.
Common Problems With Variegated Heart Leaf Philodendron
Variegated heart leaf philodendron care requires regular maintenance of your plant otherwise you may encounter some common problems. The leaves may start losing their color or turn yellow. You may also notice the leaves drooping. Pests and diseases can also be a problem.
Yellowing leaves
Yellowing leaves are often a direct result of improper care, such as incorrect watering, not enough sunlight, and/or exposure to cold drafts. Fortunately, these issues can generally be easily remedied to ensure your beloved leafy pal thrives!
If you’ve noticed the telltale yellowing leaves, first check the soil’s moisture levels and adjust your watering accordingly. Move the plant to a warmer location, and ensure it always has plenty of light and is not exposed to cold drafts. After that, consider the possibility of pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies.
Drooping leaves
Drooping leaves on your Variegated Heartleaf Philodendron can be underwatering, or lack of water in the soil. Check for signs of dryness in the soil with your finger, and if it’s needed, give your plant a thorough soaking. Making sure the soil is moist, but not wet, can help give your plant back the hydration it’s been missing.
Brown Leaf Tips
While brown leaf tips can occur naturally over time, there are a few things you can do to help prevent this common issue.
First, check the humidity level in your home. Philodendrons do best in moderate humidity levels, so adjust your home’s climate according to the comfort level of your plant. Remember, too little humidity can lead to brown tips.
If the sun is too intense for your plant, provide some shade with drapes or curtains. In addition, try to avoid using too much fertilizer as this can also lead to brown tips. When it comes to watering, make sure you allow the water to stream through the soil for several minutes. This helps to wash away any excess minerals and salts that can cause brown tips.
Diseases
Diseases can also affect Variegated HeartLeaf Philodendron. Leaf spots, root rot, and bacterial infections are some common diseases that can damage the plant.
Root rot is caused by overwatering and inadequate drainage. When this happens, too much water and oxygen remain around the root system, leading to the growth of mold and fungi. Without proper action, root rot will spread throughout the plant, eventually killing it.
As heartbreaking as it is, root rot is often irreversible, so prevention is key. To make sure your plants stay healthy and vibrant, here are a few tips you should follow:
Pests
Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects, all of which can be removed with insecticidal soap or neem oil, as well as regular inspections to detect and remove any dead leaves or debris, which may attract pests.
Scale insects
Scale insects are small pests – usually green, gray, brown, or black in color – that live on the stems and leaves of plants. Although they often go unnoticed, they can cause major damage to your plants, leading to the yellowing and wilting of plant foliage.
The good news is that you can get rid of these pests without resorting to harsh chemicals. One way to treat a scale infestation is to mix one teaspoon of neem oil into four cups of water and thoroughly spray the affected plant. Neem oil and horticultural oils may not completely eliminate the pests but will weaken them, helping to keep them under control.
If you need an extra boost in keeping your plants healthy, there are spray products available for scale insects that are considered safe for indoor use. Be sure to follow the directions on the product’s label for effective and safe use.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are small, mothy bugs that measure three millimeters in length. They tend to be grayish-white and flutter around just like small moths. When these pests thrive, the leaves of your Heartleaf Philodendron variegated can suffer from a lot of damage from their sap-feeding.
So how can you get rid of these pesky whiteflies? This can be tricky since these bugs reproduce quickly and can be difficult to keep up with.
The good news is, there are a few strategies you can use to quickly reduce populations. The first way is by physically removing them. With a vacuum, you can suck up any eggs, larvae, and adult whiteflies. Just make sure to empty your vacuum bag outside so that the bugs don’t have a chance to spread while they’re inside.
However, if the infestation is severe, you may need to use some sort of insecticidal soap, neem, or horticultural oil to completely cover the bugs and cause them to suffocate.
Whatever method you use, it’s important to understand that whiteflies can reproduce quickly. So, don’t be surprised if you have to reapply for your preferred treatment as needed until the populations decrease.
Aphids.
These small bugs come in a variety of colors and can be seen in clusters on new shoots, buds, and developing parts of your plant. They’re capable of reproducing rapidly, so if you don’t take action quickly, you may find yourself in quite a bit of trouble!
It’s time to take action against these pesky pests if you happen to spot them on your Sweetheart plant. First of all, it’s important to physically remove any affected plants from your collection in order to reduce the risk of further infestation.
Once you separate the problem plant, you can move on to tackling the insect itself. You’re going to want to start by spraying your plant with a strong stream of water to deter the aphids. It’s a good idea to also put plastic around the soil in order to catch any fallen bugs or eggs.
Insecticidal soaps, neem oil, and horticultural oil are all good natural remedies to consider in the battle against these bugs. You may have to repeat the process a couple of times to make sure the area is free of aphids.
Spider mites
Spider mites are a common houseplant problem, but that doesn’t make them any less annoying. You may have noticed tiny brown or yellow spots on your plant, as well as fine webs and red bugs. Yuck!
But don’t worry! You can get your plant back to its happy, healthy state. The first step is to give your Philodendron a thorough wash. You can do this in a sink, a tub, or even outdoors. Make sure you wash every nook and cranny so you can get rid of all the spider mites.
If a simple wash doesn’t seem to do the trick, you can try using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil to suffocate the spider mites. These solutions should be applied to the plant’s leaves, stems, and soil.
Finally, to prevent the spider mites from spreading, you may need to isolate your infected plant if you have other houseplants.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How often should I water my variegated heart leaf philodendron?
You should aim to water your plant every 7-14 days in order to maintain healthy soil moisture.
How to take care of variegated heart leaf philodendron?
These stunning plants can bring a pop of color to even the dreariest spaces, and best of all, they require relatively little maintenance. Water it when the soil is dry, and provide it with diffused sunlight, maintain humidity and temperature 50-60% and 70-90 degrees Fahrenheit respectively.
Does variegated heartleaf philodendron require pruning?
Yes, give your philodendron a light pruning occasionally to maintain its size and shape. You should be careful not to prune too often, as too much trimming can damage the plant.
How variegated heartleaf philodendron plant got infested by pests inside the home?
As with any plant, buying and bringing a new philodendron home can sometimes mean bringing new pests inside. Make sure to check for insects like mealybugs and scale periodically. Keep an eye out for any yellow spots on the leaves which could indicate a pest problem.
How often should I fertilize my variegated heart leaf philodendron?
Fertilizing your variegated philodendron on a monthly basis with a balanced fertilizer is a great way to ensure that your plant stays healthy and strong. Always remember to dilute the fertilizer to about half the recommended strength, as too much fertilizer can burn your plant’s leaves.
What kind of toxicity philodendron plant contain?
All philodendrons contain Oxalic acid crystals in them which is a toxic compound. Always remember to keep your philodendron away from children and pets. Philodendrons are toxic to animals if ingested, so keep them safely away from furry friends
Roots are coming out from the drainage hole of the pot, what should I do now?
It is an indication that your variegated heart leaf philodendron needs re-potting keep an eye on your philodendron plant to see if it needs to be repotted. If you see that your plant looks crowded and has outgrown its pot, you can repot it into a larger pot with fresh soil.
