Looking for a houseplant that brings rainforest vibes and a distinctive look to your living space?
Research suggests that indoor plants like philodendrons have the ability to remove harmful pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter, and one study even found philodendrons effective against formaldehyde, bacteria, and mold.1
So, if you’re looking for a stylish and health-conscious addition to your home, look no further than these stunning varieties of split-leaf philodendron.
1. Philodendron bipinnatifidum
- Native to: South America (Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina)
- Habitat: Thrives in tropical rainforests, often found growing near rivers and streams.
- Size: This impressive plant can reach heights of 10-15 feet in its natural habitat and 6-8 feet indoors.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter, such as a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and compost.
This eye-catching Philodendron is known for its deeply lobed, feathery leaves that resemble a tree fern. Its leaves can grow up to 3 feet long and 2 feet wide, making it a dramatic statement piece for any indoor space.
2. Philodendron elegans
- Native to: Colombia
- Habitat: This climbing Philodendron thrives in the humid environment of rainforests, often growing up trees.
- Size: It can climb to impressive heights of 20 feet or more in its natural habitat and 8-10 feet indoors.
- Soil: Requires well-draining soil with good aeration, such as a mixture of orchid bark, perlite, and charcoal.
Philodendron elegans is distinguished by its elegant, deeply divided leaves with long, narrow lobes. Its delicate appearance contrasts with its vigorous growth habit, making it a captivating addition to any plant collection.
3. Philodendron squamiferum
- Native to: French Guiana, Suriname, Brazil
- Habitat: This climbing Philodendron is found in tropical rainforests, often growing on tree trunks and branches.
- Size: It can reach heights of 10-15 feet in its natural habitat and 6-8 feet indoors.
- Soil: Requires a well-draining, airy soil mix with good moisture retention, such as a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark.
Philodendron squamiferum is a unique variety known for its fuzzy, red stems and deeply lobed leaves. The leaves are adorned with prominent veins and have a velvety texture, adding to their visual appeal.
4. Philodendron radiatum
- Native to: Mexico and Central America
- Habitat: This climbing Philodendron thrives in the warm, humid conditions of rainforests, often growing on tree trunks and branches, but sometimes on the ground.
- Size: It can reach impressive heights of 15-20 feet or more in its natural habitat and 6-8 feet indoors.
- Soil: Requires well-draining soil with good aeration and moisture retention, such as a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark.
Philodendron radiatum stands out with its deeply lobed, dark green leaves that have a radiant appearance, as suggested by its name. The leaves are adorned with prominent veins and have a leathery texture, adding to their allure.
5. Philodendron minima (Rhaphidophora tetrasperma)
- Native to: Thailand and Malaysia
- Habitat: This vining Philodendron is found in tropical rainforests, often climbing up trees and other plants.
- Size: Although called “minima,” it can grow up to 10 feet or more in its natural habitat and 4-6 feet indoors.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining soil with good aeration and moisture retention, such as a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark.
Despite its name, Philodendron minima boasts charming, small, heart-shaped leaves with characteristic splits and fenestrations, resembling a miniature Monstera deliciosa. Its compact size and attractive foliage make it a popular choice for indoor gardening.
Note: Philodendron minima is technically not a true Philodendron, but rather a Rhaphidophora. However, it’s commonly referred to as Philodendron minima due to its appearance and growth habits similar to other Philodendron species.
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Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.