Transform your House and Garden with Large-Leaf Philodendrons
Cultivating large-leaf philodendrons in your house and garden can transform your home into a lush, tropical haven. These adaptable plants are stunning in gardens and thrive as houseplants. While many philodendrons feature vibrant green foliage, some species add a splash of color, enhancing your garden’s visual appeal. Their unique leaf shapes further contribute to an exotic, tropical ambiance.
Here are some top varieties to consider, along with growing tips:
Philodendrons are incredibly versatile, thriving both indoors and outdoors in Zones 9-11 or 12. Notably, the Hope Hardy Philodendron can grow as far north as Zone 7b.
Most philodendrons come to us from tropical regions of Central and South America where they thrive in the warm and humid understories of rainforests. Wherever you plant your philodendrons, keep these facts in mind. It is a member of the Araceae family and is well known for its large-leafed plants; members of the family include plants we call elephant ears. They are known for flowers on an inflorescence called a spadix. It’s a big family with 114 genera and 3750 species are known. The genus Philodendron is a big one with over 600 species.
When Is A Philodendron Not A Philodendron?
Like many other species, the philodendron has undergone some changes you might be surprised at! Some plants previously classified as Philodendron (which means tree lover) have been reclassified as Thaumatophyllum, (it means Wonder Leaf). This reclassification came about because DNA testing showed that these species were genetically different from other Philodendrons. For example, Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum was previously known as a Philodendron Selloum, also called the split-leaf philodendron. The popular Xanadu plant has also changed its genus.
As these changes do not affect how we can use the plants, and because many people still know the plant by its original name I am keeping them in this analysis but simply correcting their botanical name.
Toxicity
Philodendron plants, and their near relatives contain calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic if eaten by humans and animals.
Best Varieties For The Garden And The House.
The first two plants, the Rojo Congo and the Imperial Red are similar in appearance and accept similar growing conditions (bright indirect light.) Make your choice on the size of your growing space, you also may have some views on the slight color and shape distinctions.
Philodendron ‘Rojo Congo’
The ‘Rojo Congo’ will mature at about 4’X 4′ and grows at a medium speed. Its leaves are broad and have a dark and rich red color. This is the more colorful of the two red plants.
Make your choice based on the size of your space. The ‘Rojo Congo’ is larger and more open in form, while the ‘Imperial Red’ is smaller. ‘Rojo Congo’ will reach 4’x4′ in size and grows at a medium speed. Its leaves are broad and are the darker and richer color. Both plants have a red bloom and the brighter color is in the ‘Rojo Congo’.
Philodendron ‘Imperial Red’
The ‘Imperial Red’ is slightly smaller and is hardy outdoors to Zones 10-11. The shape is more dense and compact than the ‘Rojo Congo.’ You can see some of the ‘red’ leaves in the photo. They will mature to the color of oxblood shoes. It’s very nice but not really red.
For more on the two plants read this.
What We Call ‘Split Leaf Philodendron’
Growth: The plant can grow up to 5 ft indoors and has a tropical vibe. It’s low-maintenance, fast-growing, and affordable.
You know this plant as the split leaf philodendron or tree philodendron, or philodendron selloum. They are all the same plant. If you know the botanical name you will buy one under the name Philodendron selloum, or since 2018 using the name Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum.
Classification: In 2018, the plant was reclassified from the genus Philodendron to the genus Thaumatophyllum, but it’s still commonly referred to as a philodendron.
Leaves: The leaves are large, glossy, and deep green, with unusual shapes and long stems. They can grow up to three feet long and are usually drooping.
Thaumatophyllum xanadu
Thaumatophyllum xanadu, until 20118 this was Philodendron xanadu. It is another situation in which DNA analysis changes the genus of a well-known split-leaf plant, above but if the size holds you back, this one is for you. We planted this in a sunny garden in Zone 9b (central Florida) and it performed for years with virtually no care.
This compact variety has segregated leaves and forms a dense, bushy plant. The leaves are narrower and smaller than the Selloum.
Philodendron burle-marxii
We use this as a ground cover in Zone 10. It is a clumping plant of about 2′ tall and 3′ wide. It likes bright indirect light; in our climate, it accepts part sun to shade. It is a popular house plant. The green version is very pretty with shiny leaves and there is a variegated version you might like too. It will also grow as a vine.
The plant is a Brazilian native and is named for a world-famous Brazilian artist and landscape architect.
Philodendron erubescens ‘Prince of Orange’
This is a very colorful philodendron. You can tell by the name that it is greenhouse-made cultivar with a patent. Grow it indoors in bright but indirect light and in your garden in Zone 10 and warmer. It shares a special feature with the ‘Congo’ Philodendron. The plants are self-heading, which means that the plant grows from its center and does not vine. For the gardener, this guarantees the tropical foliage of the philodendron in a plant that remains compact (maturing at 2’X2′).
Philodendron erubescens ‘Pink Princess’
If you’ve got a prince in the garden I think you need a princess in the house. Or vice versa, as both plants will serve indoors or out. This one will reach 4′-5′ tall and 2’4′ wide. My intention is not to show you every possible large-leafed philodendron for your house and garden. My goal is to show you wherever your plants live, that you have plenty of tropical foliage choices!
The color is flashy; the leaves start as bright yellow and mature through orange to end up green. This makes a constantly colorful plant. With color and shape this little philodendron is unique. At two feet this is the smallest plant we will cover here. For more tropical foliage plants with links to more data read this.
Caring For Your Large Leaf Philodendron
Light Conditions
Philodendrons perform best with bright but indirect light, part sun in the garden. With too much light the leaves will appear burned or yellow. With too little light, the plant will stop growing and the leaves will lose their gloss.
Water For Philodendron
Most philodendron plants will be watered weekly once established. Water them when the top inch of soil is dry. Sacrifice a manicure and stick your finger into the soil, it’s a perfect test. Overwatering is the greatest risk as the plants can suffer root rot. For house plants in winter reduce the water.
The Importance Of Humidity
The most successful gardeners, indoors or out understand the importance of providing a plant with an environment as close as possible to its native climate. Philodendrons come from the understory of tropical forests. They appreciate a humid environment. You will notice this in the leaf size, they’ll be bigger in humidity. The outside humidity is why we have so many philodendrons and swimming pools in South Florida!
Fertilizing Your Philodendron
Fertilize in the spring and summer, fertilize philodendrons once a month with a water-soluble houseplant fertilizer diluted to 1/4 the recommended dose. In the winter, reduce fertilizing to once every 6–8 weeks.
Pruning Philodendron Plants
The best time to prune is in spring to early summer during growth. Remove any dead, and damaged material. Trim any long or leggy stems.
Use clean and sharp shears and make precise cuts. Make the cuts just above a leaf node to ensure prompt regrowth. You can pinch back any stems to encourage dense growth. You can use these cuttings to propagate in water. Make sure to use only clean and disinfected tools.
Pests And Diseases
Check your plants regularly for these pests; aphids, mealybugs, gnats, mites, scales, and thrips. Scale and mealybugs are related to excess moisture and spider mites appear when humidity is low. A common disease to be aware of is fungal Rhizoctonia sp, which is root rot and is a result of poor drainage. Look for yellow leaves starting from the lower leaves. Make sure that the plants have sufficient airflow.
The Best Soil For Philodendrons
The first feature of soil for philodendrons and related plants is superior drainage. The soil should also be rich in organic matter and have a pH of 6-6.5. Philodendron fans have their favorite mixes. This is a useful one:1 part orchid bark, ¼ part perlite, 1 part peat moss, and 1 part potting mix. Include worm castings or some compost.
Resources You Can Use
International Aroid Society– This society has information on the Philodendrons.
Diseases of Philodendrons, Penn State Extension
Guide to Philodendrons is oriented to indoor plants.
Summary,
Growing Large-Leafed Philodendrons for Home and Garden
The lush large leaves and easy care of philodendrons make them an always excellent choice for house and garden.
Philodendrons are a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor gardening due to their lush, large leaves and easy care requirements. Here’s a brief guide to help you grow these stunning plants.
Large-leaf philodendrons are popular choices for both indoor and outdoor gardening due to their striking, large foliage and relatively easy care requirements. These plants, native to South America, can grow leaves up to three feet long, making them a dramatic addition to any space. Indoors, they thrive in bright, indirect light and require well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Regular watering is essential, but it’s important to let the soil dry out between waterings to avoid overwatering. These philodendrons also benefit from occasional misting to maintain humidity, especially in drier indoor environments12.
When grown outdoors, large leaf philodendrons can be used as focal points in tropical-themed gardens or as lush, green backdrops in landscape designs. They prefer a shaded or partially shaded location to protect their leaves from direct sunlight, which can cause scorching. These plants are relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional pruning to remove dead or yellowing leaves and to maintain their shape. With proper care, large leaf philodendrons can grow to impressive sizes, adding a touch of the tropics to any garden or home.
By following these tips, you can enjoy the lush, vibrant foliage of large-leafed philodendrons in your home or garden. Happy digging!
Will you grow one of these large-leaf plants?
One Response
No I don’t like philodendrons