Philodendron Golden Crocodile is a beautiful tropical plant that is unique in its way. It is known for its crocodile-like shape and its evergreen and durable leaves.
This herbaceous plant is also known for its unique shape, color, and easy manageability. This perennial plant has comparatively large leaves with lobes and elongated or deeply cut foliage.
These aroids make the best indoor plant and give your rooms, and offices an enhanced and tropical look. If you are also head over heels for this beautiful and unique plant, then read this article to learn how to keep it.
Philodendron Golden Crocodile Classification
- Family – Araceae
- Genus – Philodendron
These rare aroids belong to the subspecies of Philodendron; a part of the Araceae family. These plants are relatively rare and have been bred using the Philodendron pinnatifid and melatonin. While most Philodendrons have heart-shaped leaves, the Crocodile has kept its uniqueness intact.
Instead, its leaves have a jagged appearance and are lengthy and elongated. There are several lobes on each leaf. It’s important to give these plants ample room to thrive, as they tend to spread outwards.
About
It is a unique tropical plant that is native to South America. The plant’s name comes from the shape of its unique leaves, which resemble the head of a crocodile.
This plant is a great addition to any indoor or outdoor space and is relatively easy to care for. The leaves of this Golden Crocodile are glossy and bright with attractive light to dark green colors.
Features of The Philodendron Golden Crocodile Plant
Height
The plant can grow to be quite tall, reaching up to 10 feet in height.
Stems and Foliage
The enormous leaves of this plant are supported by thick, sturdy stalks. The leaves have a dark green tint with golden yellow stripes down the middle. They have a leathery texture and are quite shiny.
Evergreen and Durable
The Philodendron Golden Crocodile is an evergreen plant, which means its leaves will stay green all year. It is also quite durable and can tolerate some neglect. However, it does require some basic care in order to keep it looking its best.
Dormancy
This plant goes through a brief period of dormancy in the winter months. During this time, its leaves will turn brown and fall off. However, new growth will quickly emerge once spring arrives.
Maintenance
The Philodendron Golden Crocodile is relatively low-maintenance. It does not require a lot of watering or fertilizing. However, it does benefit from being misted occasionally and being placed in a humid environment.
Toxicity
This Golden Crocodile is toxic to both humans and animals if ingested. The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalates which can cause burning and irritation of the mouth, throat, and stomach. If ingested, call your local poison control center or seek medical attention immediately.
Philodendron Golden Crocodile Care
Philodendron Crocodile is a unique tropical plant that is native to South America. It plant is a great addition to any indoor or outdoor space and is relatively easy to care for.
Quick Care Guide:
| Water | Regular watering (in the growing season) |
| Humidity | High Humidity, ideally 60-70 percent. |
| Light | indirect sunlight |
| Fertilizer | General house plant fertilizer |
| Soil | Soil that is rich in nutrients and drains well |
| Repotting | Every two years or so |
| Placing | A humid, warm place with indirect sunlight |
| Grooming & Pruning | Regular pruning and grooming |
Soil Requirements
The best soil for Philodendron Crocodile is a well-draining, loamy soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. If your soil does not drain well, you can add some perlite or sand to improve drainage.
The plant prefers to be slightly on the acidic side, so if your soil is too alkaline, you can add some peat moss to lower the pH level.
Water Requirements
Watering the Philodendron Crocodile on a regular basis is ideal. When the top inch of soil is dry, water the plant. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so be careful. During the winter, you can cut back on watering slightly, but don’t allow the plant dry out altogether.
Light Requirements
Indirect light is optimal, although it may also withstand low light. You may need to supplement with artificial lights if you live in a particularly dark home. However, be sure not to place the plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The Philodendron Golden Crocodile is a tropical plant that thrives in warm temperatures. It thrives in a temperature range of 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The leaves may turn brown and fall off if the temperature falls below 60 degrees.
Humidity Requirements
Although it thrives in high humidity, this plant can also be kept in a home with a relative humidity of 50 percent. The plant can be placed on a pebble tray or humidifier if your home is dry or torrid.
Fertilizing Requirements
During the growing season, a balanced fertiliser should be used every two weeks to Philodendron Golden Crocodile. Fertilizing can be reduced to once a month throughout the cold months. Overfertilizing can burn the roots, so be careful.
Pruning Requirements
You can prune plant to keep it looking at its best. Trim off any yellow or brown leaves as they occur. You can also cut back the stems to control the plant’s size and shape.
Repotting Requirements
Every two years or so, the Golden Crocodile Philodendron should be repotted. Use a pot that is only one size larger than the existing pot during repotting.
Be sure not to over-pot, as this can cause the plant to become rootbound. After repotting, water well and allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
Philodendron Golden Crocodile Propagation
Stem cuttings can be used to propagate this herbaceous aroid. To do this, cut a stem that has at least two leaves on it and remove the bottom leaf.
Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant in a pot filled with moistened potting mix. Place the pot in a warm, humid location and keep the soil moist. Within 4-6 weeks, the cutting should root. Once the cutting has rooted, you can transplant it to its own pot.
Pests and Diseases
This rare species is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids can occasionally be a problem. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, so be sure to water only when necessary.
Final Thoughts
Rare and unique Philodendron Golden Crocodile makes the best indoor plant to add that much-needed tropical aura to your lounge, bedrooms, or even stores.
It is an ideal plant for beginners as it doesn’t require much maintenance and is easy to care for. These plants grow well in bright and indirect sunlight with a generous amount of water to keep the soil moist. Follow these tips and tricks and keep your Golden Crocodile happy forever.
