How to Grow and Care for Philodendron Horse Head

The Philodendron bipennifolium, commonly known as the Horse Head Philodendron, is a tropical aroid from South America sought after for its distinct foliage. As a vining species, it naturally climbs trees in its native habitat. This climbing behavior is important for its development, as its leaves transform from a simple juvenile shape into their signature lobed, horse-head form as the plant matures. Providing the right conditions to climb is part of the reward of growing this impressive plant.

Philodendron Horse Head Care

Light

This plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, which mimics the dappled light of a forest floor. An ideal placement is near an east-facing or north-facing window where it receives gentle morning sun. Too much direct sunlight will scorch the leaves, causing sunburn spots or a yellowish appearance. Insufficient light causes “leggy” growth, with long, sparse stems and smaller leaves as the plant stretches toward a light source. Periodically rotating the plant helps ensure all sides receive equal light for balanced growth.

Soil

The soil must be well-aerated and fast-draining. A chunky aroid mix is ideal, or you can create your own by combining ingredients like peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark. The peat moss helps retain moisture, perlite creates air pockets for oxygen, and orchid bark provides structure to prevent compaction. This creates a loose, fertile medium that stays lightly moist but never waterlogged, which is key to preventing root rot. A slightly acidic pH between 5.5 and 6.0 is also beneficial.

Water

Follow a “soak and dry” method. Water the plant thoroughly until water flows from the drainage holes, then allow the top one to two inches of soil to dry before watering again. This method prevents overwatering, a common problem that leads to root rot. Consistently saturated soil suffocates the roots, causing yellow leaves that may drop, and can be fatal in severe cases. During winter, the plant’s growth slows, so reduce watering frequency accordingly.

Temperature and Humidity

Originating from a tropical environment, the Horse Head Philodendron prefers warm conditions. The ideal temperature range is between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). It should be protected from temperatures below 55°F (13°C), as cold drafts or frost can cause damage.

High humidity is also important, with levels of 60% or higher being optimal for robust growth and larger leaves. While it can adapt to average household humidity, you can increase moisture in the air by grouping it with other plants, placing it on a pebble tray filled with water, or using a room humidifier.

Fertilizer

To support its growth, fertilize during the active season of spring and summer. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer is a good choice, though some growers find a formula higher in nitrogen promotes more vigorous leaves. Apply the fertilizer at half-strength every four weeks to prevent root burn. It is a good practice to water the plant before fertilizing to protect the roots. In fall and winter, reduce feeding or stop altogether, resuming when new growth appears.

Support

Providing a climbing support like a moss pole or trellis is important for this plant’s maturation. Without a structure to climb, its leaves will likely remain in their smaller, juvenile form. A support encourages the development of the signature horse-head-shaped leaves. To encourage climbing, gently secure the stems to the pole with plant ties until its aerial roots attach. Keeping a moss pole consistently moist will further entice the roots to grow into it, anchoring the plant.

Propagating Philodendron Horse Head

The best way to propagate is through stem cuttings during the spring and summer growing season. Using clean pruners, select a healthy stem and cut just below a node, which is the small nub where a leaf meets the stem. A cutting with one or two leaves is ideal, as too many leaves can stress it. Provide the cutting with bright, indirect light and warmth to encourage growth.

One method is to place the cutting in a glass of water. Submerge the node, keep the leaves dry, and change the water every few days to keep it fresh. Once new roots are two to three inches long, transfer the cutting to a pot with a well-draining soil mix.

Alternatively, cuttings can be rooted directly in a medium like sphagnum moss. Plant the node into the moist medium and keep it consistently damp. Covering the pot with a plastic bag helps create a humid environment that aids root development.

Repotting Philodendron Horse Head

Repot your philodendron when it becomes root-bound. Signs include roots growing out of the drainage holes, slowed growth, or the plant needing more frequent watering. It is best to repot during the spring or early summer.

Select a new pot with adequate drainage holes that is only one to two inches larger in diameter than the current one. A pot that is too large can cause the soil to stay wet for too long. Carefully remove the plant from its current pot and inspect the root ball, gently loosening any tightly coiled roots. Place the plant in the center of the new pot, add fresh soil around the sides, and firm it down lightly. Wait a day or two before watering to allow any damaged roots time to heal.

Common Problems

Yellowing leaves are most often a sign of overwatering. To resolve this, allow the soil to dry out more thoroughly between waterings and ensure the pot has proper drainage. Brown and crispy leaf edges indicate a lack of humidity or underwatering. Increasing humidity with a pebble tray or humidifier can help, as can ensuring a consistent watering schedule.

Leggy growth, with long, spindly stems and sparse leaves, is a result of insufficient light. Move the plant to a spot with more bright, indirect light and prune the leggy stems to stimulate new, healthier growth. Pests like spider mites and mealybugs can be treated by wiping leaves with a damp cloth or by applying an insecticidal soap or neem oil solution. Regularly inspect the undersides of leaves to catch infestations early.