So, it’s been your dream to own a philodendron splendid, also known as Philodendron sp. ‘Verrucosum x Melanochrysum.’
Congratulations! You might wonder how to care for your new plant to keep it looking its best. To get you started, consider these suggestions:
First: What Is Philodendron Splendid?
Philodendron splendid is a tropical evergreen plant that is native to Brazil. The Philodendron genus is a member of the Araceae family, which also includes common houseplants such as dieffenbachia, anthurium, and caladium.
These plants are known for their large, glossy leaves and sometimes vining habits. Philodendron splendid is one of the more unusual philodendrons, with their creamy white flowers and purple-tinged leaves.
Videos
This video is a bit lengthy (a bit over 20 mins) but goes over many details. He is located in the U.K. and talks about his experience of having the plant for two years:
Here is a video that highlights philodendron splendid to give you a better visual:
Care Guide
Light Requirements (Prevent a Dull-Looking Plant)
Bright, indirect lighting benefits this plant the most. Unfortunately, the leaves may be scorched by too much direct sunlight, although they can handle some mild sun.
The problem most people have with their Philodendrons is not giving them enough light. The leaves will become small and dull-looking if your plant is not getting enough light.
If this is happening try moving your plant to a brighter area.
Water Requirements (Careful Not to Overwater)
This plant likes to be kept evenly moist but not wet or soggy. Before rewatering, let the top few inches of soil dry out. You can let the plant dry out more during winter between waterings.
Over-watering is the most common reason philodendrons die, so be careful not to water too often. Test the soil with your finger if you’re not sure whether your plant needs water. It is time to water if it feels dry a couple of inches down.
Temperature & Humidity (Avoid the Cold)
This plant prefers warm temperatures between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it will not tolerate cold drafts or temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
This plant also prefers high humidity levels. If your house is usually on the dry side, you may use a humidifier or put your plant on a pebble tray to boost the humidity there.
Humidity levels can be especially important during the winter when indoor heating can dry the air. You may want to think about cultivating your philodendron in a terrarium if you reside in an area that is very dry.
Soil Requirements (Think Light & Airy)
If you want your plant to thrive, you must use the right potting mix. A sphagnum peat moss-based potting mix is an example of a light and airy potting mix to look for. Avoid using a heavy, clay-based potting mix, which can hold too much water and lead to root rot.
The plant has fine-sized roots that don’t like being in moisture for very long. Even though the two plants it is a hybrid of generally don’t have this issue.
Another thing to consider when choosing potting mix is whether or not it is sterile. If you are potting a new plant, you will want to use a sterile potting mix to help prevent the spread of disease.
You can use regular potting mix if you are repotting an existing plant. Just be sure to sterilize your pots and tools before use.
Fertilizer Needs (Go Slow)
This plant does not need a lot of fertilizer. However, the roots and leaves might be harmed by too much fertilizer.
Fertilize your plant once every two to four weeks using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. During the winter months, you can fertilize your plant once a month.
Something else to keep in mind is that philodendrons are heavy feeders. This means they will quickly use up any nutrients in the potting mix. To prevent this, you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the potting mix when you repot your plant.
When choosing a fertilizer for your philodendron, be sure to select one that is labeled for use on foliage plants. Avoid using fertilizers with a lot of nitrogen since they might turn the tips of the leaves brown.
If you can’t find a fertilizer specifically for foliage plants, you can use a general-purpose fertilizer at half the recommended strength.
Repotting (When it’s Time to Move On)
Over time, your plant will outgrow its pot. When this happens, you’ll need to repot it.
A great time to repot your plant is in the spring. Choose a pot that is only one size larger than the current pot.
When repotting, use a fresh, sterile potting mix. Also, it helps to add a slow-release fertilizer to the potting mix to help your plant grow.
Something else to keep in mind is that philodendrons like to be pot-bound. This means they don’t need to be repotted very often. You can wait two or three years before repotting your plant.
Additionally, take caution handling your plant when you do decide to repot it. Because they are sensitive, the roots are easily harmed.
How to Propagate Philodendron Splendid
Philodendrons may be propagated by stem cuttings or division.
To propagate your plant by division, remove it from its pot and divide the root ball into two or three pieces. Each piece should have several healthy roots.
Plant the pieces in separate pots and water them well. Your plants should start to grow within a few weeks.
Cut a 4-inch section of stem from the tips of a healthy philodendron splendid plant to use as a stem cutting for plant propagation. On the stem, there should be a minimum of two leaves.
Remove the bottom leaf and dip the cut end of the stem in the rooting hormone. Plant the stem in a pot of sterile potting mix and water it well.
Your plant should start to grow within a few weeks.
How Big Will a Philodendron Splendid Plant Get?
Philodendron splendid plants can grow to be quite large. Some types of philodendrons can reach heights of 10 feet or more.
However, most philodendrons will only grow about 3-4 feet tall. So, as you can imagine, the size of your plant will depend on the type of philodendron you have.
Other factors that can affect the size of your plant include how often you repot it and how much fertilizer you give it. If you want your plant to remain little, you should repot it every year or two and fertilize it once each month.
On the other hand, if you want your plant to grow bigger, you can repot it every two or three years and fertilize it once a week.
The one thing you must avoid when growing philodendrons is over-watering
It can’t be stressed enough that philodendrons like to be on the dry side. Over-watering is one of the most common reasons why philodendrons die.
When in doubt, don’t water your plant. It’s better to underwater your plant than to overwater it.
It’s okay if your plant doesn’t have a drink for a week or two. The leaves may start to droop, but they will perk up once you water the plant again.
That means you’re safe to go on vacation without worrying about your plant!
Diseases & Pests (What to Look For)
Understanding the diseases and pests that might harm your plant is essential, so we’ll spend a bit more time on this topic.
The two most common problems with philodendron splendid are root rot and leaf spot.
Root Rot (What is it?)
Root rot affects the roots of your plant. It is a disease that is caused by too much water and can quickly kill your plant.
Yellowing leaves are often the first indication of root rot. Therefore, it is crucial to examine your plant’s roots if you see this. If they are mushy or black, your plant has root rot and needs to be treated immediately.
An excellent way to avoid root rot is to water your plant only when the top inch or two of soil is dry.
Leaf Spot (How to Spot it)
A fungal disease known as “leaf spot” attacks your plant’s leaves. It is most commonly caused by too much water or humidity.
You’ll know your plant has leaf spot if you see small, dark spots on the leaves. Eventually, the spots will turn yellow, and the leaves will begin to fall.
If you see leaf spot on your plant, the best thing to do is to increase the airflow around the plant and reduce the amount of water you give it.
Common Pests: That Can Attack Philodendrons
The two most common pests affecting philodendron splendid are mealybugs and spider mites.
Mealybugs are small, white insects that suck the sap out of plants. They can quickly weaken a plant and cause yellowing leaves.
Spider mites are small, spider-like insects that make webs on plant leaves. They can also cause yellowing leaves and weak plants.
The best way to prevent pests is to keep your plant healthy. Pests are less likely to assault a healthy plant.
You should inspect your plant regularly. If you see any pests, you can remove them by hand or treat the plant with an insecticide.
References + Resources
Araceae Family of plants – Link
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.