Philodendron

Basic Information

Common Name: Philodendron

Scientific Name: Philodendron

Native Habitat: Tropical regions of the Americas

History / Discovery / Cultivator

The genus Philodendron boasts a rich history, intricately interwoven with the tapestry of the New World’s tropical ecosystems. The name itself, derived from the Greek words “philo” (love) and “dendron” (tree), aptly describes the vining nature of many species, their aerial roots clinging to the trunks of trees in the rainforest canopy. While individual species within Philodendron have varying discovery timelines, the genus as a whole has been recognized and studied by botanists since the 17th century. Early explorers and naturalists, captivated by the lush biodiversity of the Americas, documented and collected specimens of these fascinating plants.

The precise “discoverer” of Philodendron as a genus is difficult to pinpoint to a single individual. Rather, it was a gradual process of observation, collection, and classification by various European botanists during the age of exploration. Carl Linnaeus, the father of modern taxonomy, played a significant role in the early classification of plants, although his original classifications of Philodendron have been revised and refined over time. As exploration into the rainforests of Central and South America intensified, more and more Philodendron species were identified and brought back to Europe.

Cultivation of Philodendron initially focused on botanical gardens and private collections. These early adopters recognized the aesthetic appeal of these plants and their ability to thrive in indoor environments. The Victorian era, with its fascination for exotic flora, saw a surge in the popularity of Philodendron as houseplants. Their adaptability and tolerance of lower light conditions made them ideal choices for the dimly lit interiors of Victorian homes.

In more recent times, plant breeders and horticulturalists have further expanded the diversity and appeal of Philodendron. Through selective breeding and hybridization, new cultivars with unique leaf shapes, colors, and growth habits have been developed. These efforts have led to a proliferation of Philodendron varieties available to consumers today, solidifying their position as one of the most beloved and widely cultivated groups of houseplants globally. The ongoing interest in rare and unusual plants has also contributed to the increased value and demand for specific Philodendron cultivars, such as variegated or unusually shaped varieties. The cultivation of Philodendron has transformed from a scientific endeavor to a widespread hobby enjoyed by millions around the world.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Philodendrons exhibit several key adaptations that contribute to their success in diverse environments. Many Philodendron species are hemiepiphytes, meaning they begin their life cycle as epiphytes, growing on other plants, and later develop roots that reach the ground. This adaptation allows them to access sunlight in the shaded understory of the rainforest. Aerial roots are another characteristic adaptation, providing support as they climb and also absorbing moisture and nutrients from the air. The leaves of Philodendron species often exhibit plasticity, meaning their shape and size can vary depending on environmental conditions such as light availability. This allows them to optimize light capture in different parts of the rainforest canopy. Finally, their tolerance for low light and relatively low nutrient levels has made them particularly successful as houseplants.

Propagation Methods

Philodendrons are relatively easy to propagate, making them popular among plant enthusiasts. The most common method is stem cuttings, where a section of stem with at least one node (where a leaf emerges) is placed in water or directly into a well-draining potting mix. Roots will typically develop within a few weeks. Division is another method suitable for clumping varieties, where the plant is carefully separated into smaller sections, each with its own root system. Air layering is also effective, involving wrapping a section of stem with moist sphagnum moss until roots develop, after which the rooted section can be cut and planted. Seed propagation is possible but less common, as it is a slower and less reliable method.

Toxicology

Philodendrons contain calcium oxalate crystals, which are microscopic, needle-shaped crystals that can cause irritation if ingested or come into contact with skin. If a human or pet chews on a Philodendron leaf or stem, the crystals can be released, causing immediate pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat. This can lead to drooling, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting. While rarely life-threatening, the symptoms can be quite uncomfortable. In pets, it’s important to keep Philodendrons out of reach and to seek veterinary attention if ingestion is suspected. For humans, rinsing the mouth thoroughly and drinking plenty of water can help alleviate the symptoms. Antihistamines may also be helpful in reducing inflammation.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Spider mites
• Mealybugs
• Aphids

Diseases:

• Root rot (due to overwatering)
• Bacterial leaf spot
• Fungal leaf spot

Other:

• Leaf yellowing (often caused by overwatering or nutrient deficiency)
• Browning tips (often caused by low humidity or fluoride in tap water)
• Leggy growth (often caused by insufficient light)

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

The rarity of Philodendron specimens stems from several factors. Some species are native to very limited geographical areas and are difficult to propagate. Others, like certain variegated cultivars, are unstable, meaning their variegation may revert over time, making stable and highly variegated specimens more valuable. Slow growth rates and difficulty in cultivating mature specimens also contribute to rarity. Additionally, high demand for specific cultivars driven by social media and collector trends can inflate rarity.

Value:

The value of a Philodendron specimen is influenced by several factors. Larger, more mature plants generally command higher prices. Variegation plays a significant role, with highly variegated and stable specimens being particularly sought after. The rarity of the specific cultivar is also a key determinant. Current trends in the plant collecting community also influence value, with certain cultivars becoming highly desirable for a period of time, driving up prices. Finally, the provenance or history of a plant, especially if it’s from a reputable source or has a known lineage, can add to its value.