How to Grow and Care for Philodendron Pastazanum

Philodendron pastazanum is a tropical plant with large, heart-shaped foliage. Originating from the rainforests of Ecuador, its ornamental appeal makes it a desirable houseplant for collectors. This guide covers its identification, care, propagation, common problems, and how to repot this terrestrial creeper.

Identifying Philodendron Pastazanum

Philodendron pastazanum’s most notable feature is its large, heart-shaped leaves. The leaves are deep green with a matte texture, and prominent, lighter-colored veins run across the surface. This species is a terrestrial creeper, with a rhizome that grows horizontally along the ground.

A key distinguishing characteristic is the shape of its petioles, the stalks connecting the leaves to the stem. The petioles of a true pastazanum are distinctly flattened on the top side, described as D-shaped, with slight winging on the edges. This feature is important for differentiating it from commonly confused plants. Philodendron gloriosum has similar leaves, but its petioles are round.

Another plant often mistaken for pastazanum is Philodendron McDowell, a hybrid of pastazanum and gloriosum that exhibits traits from both parents. Its leaves might have a more pronounced velvety texture, while its petioles could be more flattened than a gloriosum but not as D-shaped as a pure pastazanum. Observing the combination of leaf texture, venation, and petiole shape is the most reliable way to confirm the plant’s identity.

Philodendron Pastazanum Care Essentials

Light

Proper lighting is necessary for a healthy Philodendron pastazanum. This plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. An ideal location is near an east-facing window or a few feet from a south or west-facing window, shielded by a sheer curtain. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves. If growth is slow and new leaves are small, the plant might not be receiving enough light.

Soil

A proper soil mix is needed to ensure excellent drainage and aeration for the roots. Philodendron pastazanum is susceptible to root rot if its rhizome and roots remain in waterlogged soil. A chunky, well-draining aroid mix is the best choice. You can purchase a ready-made substrate or create your own.

A good homemade mix will create an airy medium that retains moisture without becoming soggy, mimicking its native rainforest floor. You can create a mix with:

• All-purpose potting soil
• Perlite
• Orchid bark
• Horticultural charcoal

Watering

Allow the soil to dry out partially between waterings. A reliable method is to check the top one to two inches of the soil; if it feels dry, it is time to water the plant. Water thoroughly until it flows from the drainage holes. Overwatering is a significant risk and can lead to root rot. It is always better to err on the side of underwatering. During the active growing season in spring and summer, you may need to water more frequently than in the fall and winter when growth slows.

Temperature and Humidity

Philodendron pastazanum flourishes in warm and humid conditions. The ideal temperature range is between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (18-27°C). Protect the plant from drastic temperature fluctuations and cold drafts from windows or air conditioners. This philodendron appreciates a humidity level of 60% or higher. If your home is dry, use a humidifier, place the plant on a pebble tray, or group it with other tropical plants to create a more humid microenvironment.

Fertilizing

Regular feeding supports its large leaf production during the growing season. A balanced liquid fertilizer, such as one with a 20-20-20 ratio, is a good choice. Fertilize every 4 to 6 weeks throughout the spring and summer, diluting the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid burning the roots. During the fall and winter, you should reduce or stop fertilizing to allow the plant to rest.

Support and Growth Habit

P. pastazanum is not a climber, so a moss pole is unnecessary. Its rhizome, the thick stem, grows horizontally across the soil surface. This creeping habit means the plant requires horizontal space, making a rectangular planter or a wide, shallow pot ideal to accommodate its growth. The extending rhizome produces new leaves along its length. Ensure the rhizome is not buried under the soil when potting, as this can lead to rot. It should sit on top of the soil mix, allowing roots to grow down into the substrate.

Propagating Philodendron Pastazanum

Propagating Philodendron pastazanum is done through stem cuttings. The key is to ensure each cutting includes a portion of the rhizome with at least one node, which is the point where leaves and roots emerge. For a higher success rate, select a healthy section of the rhizome that has a few leaves and several nodes. Using a sterilized knife or shears, make a clean cut through the rhizome.

You can root the cutting in moist sphagnum moss, a chunky aroid mix, or water. Provide the cutting with warmth, high humidity, and bright, indirect light. New roots can take several weeks to form.

Common Philodendron Pastazanum Problems

Pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips can affect Philodendron pastazanum. Regularly inspecting the leaves, especially the undersides, can help you catch an infestation early. Treat pests by wiping them away or using an insecticidal soap or neem oil solution.

Leaf discoloration can signal underlying care problems. Yellowing leaves are often a sign of overwatering or too much direct light. If you notice brown, crispy edges on the leaves, the cause is low humidity or the soil getting too dry. Brown spots surrounded by a yellow halo may indicate a fungal leaf spot disease, which can be managed by improving air circulation and keeping the leaves dry.

Slow or leggy growth is a result of insufficient light. While the plant can survive in lower light, it needs bright, indirect light to produce large leaves at a steady pace. If you notice growth has stalled despite proper care, consider moving the plant to a brighter location.

Repotting Your Philodendron Pastazanum

Repot every one to two years, or when the rhizome has reached the edge of the pot and has no more room to grow. Select a rectangular pot or a round pot that is one to two inches wider than the current one. Prioritize width over depth to accommodate the plant’s creeping nature. Using a fresh, well-draining aroid mix will provide the plant with renewed nutrients.

To repot, gently remove the plant from its current container and trim away any black or mushy roots. Place a layer of the fresh potting mix in the new pot, then position the plant so the rhizome sits on top of the soil at the same level it was previously. Fill in around the roots with more soil, gently firming it down, and water lightly to help the plant settle.