Philodendron Scandens - The sweetheart vine. Vining Philodendron are large leaved climbers with beautiful heart shaped leaves. Ideal as a climbing plant, or hang basket, they are easy care and highly recognised for their air purifying qualities. Naturally they can grow to quite astonishing lengths, and can make a fantastic living curtain. Grown up a moss pole they can make a dramatic feature plant for a shady corner.
As with many plants Philodendron prefer bright, indirect light, but are perfectly happy in lower light levels. Avoid direct sun.
Water thoroughly in warmer months, then allow the top 2 inches of the compost to dry out before watering again, do not keep constantly wet, soggy soil they don`t like.
Average to warm room temperatures between 16-24c are best.
If grown as a climber then it will need a means of support, either a moss pole or canes is common.
Philodendron like humidity, so if growing on a moss pole regular misting of the moss pole benefits the plant.
If grown as a hanger then misting the leaves benefits humidity and keeps the plant clean.
Fertilise once a month in growth, through Spring and Summer, with a balanced houseplant liquid feed as per instructions.
Can be pruned to any given length or height.
Minimum Temp: 16c
In Winter reduce the amount of water, giving just enough to stop the compost drying out completely.
Re-pot in Spring when necessary, only use a slightly larger pot, a big pot with too much compost will hold too much water.
Common leaf problems are brown tips indicating dry air, or yellow leaves too much water.
Warnings: The plant contains raphides, crystals of calcium oxalate, to deter livestock from eating them. Therefore problematic to pets and humans if consumed. Causes irritation and swelling in the mouth. Best practice is to keep out of reach.
