How to Grow and Care for Philo Bipennifolium

The Philodendron bipennifolium, or Horsehead Philodendron, is a tropical plant known for its uniquely shaped, glossy leaves that resemble a horse’s head. Native to South American rainforests, this climbing plant adds a dramatic tropical element to indoor spaces and is also relatively straightforward to maintain.

Essential Care Guide

Light

This plant grows best with bright, indirect sunlight, like the light from an east-facing window. It can adapt to lower light, but its growth may slow and its leaves will be smaller. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves and cause yellowing or burn spots.

Soil

Use a loose, well-draining potting medium high in organic material. A chunky aroid mix is ideal and can be made by combining peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark. This composition provides proper root aeration and prevents water accumulation, which can lead to root rot. The goal is to mimic the rich, loose soil of its native forest floor habitat.

Water

Water the plant when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry, keeping the soil damp but not waterlogged. During the winter, reduce watering frequency as the plant’s growth slows. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Temperature and Humidity

The Horsehead Philodendron thrives in warm, humid conditions, with an ideal temperature range between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Protect it from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes. This plant prefers high humidity, between 60% and 80%. You can increase humidity by using a humidifier or placing the plant on a pebble tray with water.

Fertilizer

During the spring and summer growing season, apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer monthly, diluted to half-strength to prevent root burn. Alternatively, use a slow-release organic fertilizer a few times a year. Reduce fertilization during the fall and winter when the plant is dormant.

Climbing Support

As a natural climber, this philodendron benefits from a support like a moss pole or trellis. This structure gives the plant’s aerial roots something to attach to, encouraging upward growth. A stable support helps the plant develop the larger, more mature leaves discussed later.

Encouraging Mature Growth

The Philodendron bipennifolium’s leaves change shape as it ages. Juvenile leaves have the familiar “horsehead” shape. As the plant matures with proper care, its leaves can transform into a more complex, deeply lobed form. The primary trigger for this maturation is providing a sturdy surface to climb, which signals the plant to produce mature foliage.

Repotting every few years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, also encourages mature growth. Move it to a container that is slightly larger to provide fresh soil and more space for the root system to expand. This process gives the plant the physical space needed to support a larger, more mature structure.

How to Propagate

Propagate this philodendron using stem cuttings. Select a healthy, mature stem and find a viable cutting that is a few inches long and includes at least one node. A node is the small bump on the stem where leaves and aerial roots emerge.

With clean, sharp scissors, cut just below a node, ensuring the cutting has a few leaves. To help prevent rot, you can let the cut end dry for a day or two to form a callus.

Root the cutting in a glass of water, moist sphagnum moss, or a pot with a well-draining soil mix. Keep the medium moist and place the cutting in bright, indirect light. Roots should form within a few weeks.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Yellowing Leaves

Yellowing leaves are often a sign of improper soil moisture. Overwatering is the most common culprit, so feel the soil. If it is consistently wet, allow the top portion to dry out more between waterings. Severe underwatering can also stress the plant and cause leaves to yellow.

Brown, Crispy Leaf Edges

Brown, crispy leaf edges indicate a lack of humidity. As tropical plants, they are accustomed to humid conditions, and dry indoor air can cause the foliage to lose moisture too quickly. Increase humidity by misting the leaves, using a humidifier, or grouping it with other plants.

Pests

The Horsehead Philodendron is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. These pests feed on the plant’s sap, causing stunted growth and discolored leaves. Inspect the leaves regularly, especially the undersides, to catch infestations early. If pests are found, they can be managed by washing the leaves and treating the plant with insecticidal soap.

Toxicity Information

The Philodendron bipennifolium is toxic to humans, cats, and dogs if ingested. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause immediate irritation upon contact.

Symptoms of ingestion can include:

• Oral irritation and intense burning of the mouth and throat
• Excessive drooling
• Vomiting
• Difficulty swallowing

Place this plant out of reach of children and pets. Seek immediate medical or veterinary attention if you suspect ingestion.