Heartleaf Philodendron Plant
Heartleaf Philodendron
Also known as: Sweetheart plant or Vilevine
This plant's tendency to grow very long stems (four feet or longer) makes it one of the few "climbing" house plants. You can train this plant to climb a trellis or column (using soft plant ties or floral tape to secure it), or hang the plant from a ceiling hook and let it trail. If the leaves become dusty, gently wipe them with a damp soft cloth.
Fun Fact: Its Greek name means "love-tree" and in its native tropical habitats, it is often found climbing tree trunks.
The heartleaf philodendron is an easy-going, attractive trailing plant that is perfect for plant experts or new plant parents.
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Light |
Thrives in moderately bright indirect light but it can tolerate indirect low light. The less light, the darker the foliage and less variegation shows up. Harsh direct light can scorch leaves. |
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Temperature |
Standard house temperature is fine (60-85 degrees). 40% humidity is ideal; too much humidity can lead to fungus growth. |
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Water |
Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing at least the top 2” soil to dry out between waterings. Increase frequency with increased light. |
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Soil |
Standard potting soil is tolerable; a more acidic soil is preferred; try adding a mix of peat moss and coffee grounds to your soil to increase drainage and acidity. |
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Fertilizer |
You can apply a diluted fertilizer solution once or twice during the active growth season in spring and summer. Do not feed during the winter. |
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Repotting |
You should re-pot your philodendron every two to three years. Repotting can help prevent root rot and keep the plant's root system healthy. Gently loosen the potting soil around the root system and add new potting soil to the new container (be sure the container has good drainage holes). Water the plant lightly after settling it into its new pot. |
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Pruning |
Cutting back long stems keeps this plant looking neat, bushy, and full. Pruning promotes growth. Cut the stem just after a leaf node (the place where a leaf is attached to the stem). A new stem will grow from that node. Also, remove any leaves with spots or signs of bruising or fungus. |
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Propagation |
Snip a three or more inch long vine with nodes from an existing philodendron. Pinch off the bottom leaf. Place the vine in a vessel filled with warm water. Keep it under indirect bright light. Change the water once a week to keep it fresh. You should see root production in 7-14 days. Periodically trim and prune to get a shape and size. |
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Pets |
Poisonous but non-lethal sap causes skin irritation and burning of the mouth if ingested. Best practice is always to keep houseplants out of reach of small children and pets. Philos love to trail so we keep ours up high and enjoy the pretty drape :) |
Troubleshooting: This is generally a very easy-going plant. Yellow leaves are often a sign of overwatering, while wilting leaves indicate under-watering. Soft, soggy or blackening stems may indicate rot or root disease. Decrease watering and slide the plant out of the grower pot and leave to air dry for a few days. Gently clean the roots and re-pot in fresh soil.
You’ll fall in love with this easy care climber! Feel free to share the love - philodendron clippings make fun gifts :) Or click here to order choose a potted philodendron for pick up or delivery.
