Plant Profiles & Identification

How to Grow and Care for Philodendron Domesticum

Master the care for your Philodendron Domesticum. Learn how to provide the right environment and support to encourage lush, mature foliage.

The Philodendron domesticum is a striking houseplant recognized for its distinct, elongated, arrow-shaped leaves. Also known as the Spadeleaf Philodendron or Elephant Ear Philodendron, this plant features glossy, green foliage that can grow quite large. It possesses a natural climbing habit, developing aerial roots to attach to surfaces as it grows. Native to the tropical rainforests of South America, its lush appearance and straightforward care contribute to its appeal for plant enthusiasts.

Philodendron Domesticum Care

Light

This plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. An ideal placement is near an east-facing window or a south-facing window with a sheer curtain to diffuse the light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves and cause yellowing or sunburn spots. Insufficient light leads to “leggy” growth, where stems become long and sparse with smaller leaves as the plant stretches for a light source.

Soil

Philodendron domesticum requires a loose, well-draining soil rich in organic matter to prevent root issues. A quality aroid mix is suitable, containing ingredients like peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark. This combination retains moisture without becoming waterlogged, which is the primary defense against root rot. Proper drainage also allows the roots to access oxygen.

Water

Water your Philodendron domesticum when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Water thoroughly, allowing the excess to escape through the drainage holes, rather than watering lightly and frequently. Overwatering is a common cause of root rot, so reduce watering frequency during the winter months when growth naturally slows.

Temperature and Humidity

As a tropical native, this philodendron prefers warm and humid conditions, with an ideal temperature range between 65 and 80°F (18-27°C). While it adapts to average household humidity, it will flourish at 60% or more. You can increase ambient moisture by grouping it with other plants, placing it on a water-filled pebble tray, or using a room humidifier. Protect the plant from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.

Fertilizer

During the spring and summer growing season, regular feeding is recommended. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 formula, every 4-6 weeks. Alternatively, you can use a half-strength solution every two weeks. Always water the plant before fertilizing to avoid burning the roots. Reduce or stop feeding during the fall and winter when growth slows.

Support

As a climbing species, this philodendron benefits from a support structure. In its natural habitat, it uses aerial roots to climb trees, and an indoor moss pole or trellis mimics this system. Providing support encourages the development of larger, more mature leaves. As the plant grows, gently attach the stem to the support, allowing its aerial roots to anchor over time. This promotes a more robust and vertical growth habit.

Propagating Philodendron Domesticum

Propagating a Philodendron domesticum is achieved through stem cuttings. While this can be done any time of year, it is most successful during the active growing season. The process involves taking a cutting and rooting it in either water or soil.

Taking the Cutting

First, identify a healthy stem with at least one node, which is the small bump where a leaf meets the stem and new roots will form. Using clean, sharp shears, cut a 4 to 6-inch piece of the stem, ensuring the cutting includes at least one leaf and a node.

Rooting in Water

For water propagation, place the cutting in a jar of water, making sure the node is submerged. Change the water every few days to keep it fresh. Once new roots are at least an inch long, the cutting is ready to be transferred to a pot with a well-draining soil mix.

Rooting in Soil

If you choose to root directly in soil, plant the cutting in a moist potting medium, ensuring the node is buried. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy and place the pot in a location with bright, indirect light to encourage root development.

Repotting Guidelines

Repotting is needed every one to two years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Signs that it’s time to repot include:

  • Slowed growth
  • Roots emerging from the drainage holes
  • Water running straight through the pot without being absorbed
  • The plant needing more frequent watering

When repotting, choose a container that is 1-2 inches wider in diameter. Gently remove the plant from its old pot and loosen any tightly wound roots. Place a layer of fresh, well-draining potting mix in the bottom of the new pot, position the plant inside, and fill the surrounding space with more soil. After repotting, water thoroughly and avoid fertilizing for at least a month to allow the plant to acclimate.

Common Issues and Solutions

Yellowing leaves are often an indicator of overwatering; allow the soil to dry out more between waterings to correct this. Leggy growth, with long stems and sparse leaves, results from inadequate light. Move the plant to a location with brighter, indirect sunlight to encourage more compact growth.

Pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale can also affect the plant. Inspect your plant regularly and treat any infestations with insecticidal soap. Brown spots on the leaves may indicate a fungal issue, which is worsened by overly moist conditions. Remove affected leaves and ensure proper air circulation to prevent it from spreading.

Toxicity

Philodendron domesticum is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which are sharp, needle-like structures that cause immediate irritation, pain, and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat if chewed. Symptoms in pets include excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, and vomiting. In humans, it causes similar oral irritation and digestive discomfort. To ensure safety, place the plant out of reach of children and pets.

Previous

How to Grow and Care for Cotton Candy Redbud

Back to Plant Profiles & Identification
Next

How to Grow and Care for Philodendron Lime Fiddle