Having giant, unusual-shaped leaves, the Philodendron quercifolium is highlighted among other Philodendrons. If you ever get the chance to get your hands on this stunning and extremely rare philodendron, then read this article to get to know more about its features and how to properly look after this plant.
Philodendron quercifolium is also referred to as the oak leaf Philodendron. It is a climbing variety of Philodendrons that becomes more beautiful as it matures.
It is generally quite easy to care for, however, the most difficult part is finding these extraordinary Philodendron varieties in the first place.
Classification
Family: Araceae
Genus: Philodendron
History
The Philodendron quercifolium was first scientifically identified in the year 1841. It is native to the tropical regions of South America, which includes Bolivia, Brazil, Columbia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, as well as Ecuador.
Features of the Philodendron Quercifolium Plant Features
Structure
The Philo quercifolium possesses unique leaves that are wide-lobed and produces narrow leaf blades. These plants can be kept either outdoors or indoors to enhance the overall aesthetics of the place. It grows at a fast rate and reaches up to 8 to 10 feet tall.
Size
The Philodendron quercifolium typically grows at a fast rate under suitable conditions i.e. having exposure to sufficient sunlight. Unfortunately, it grows at a slower rate if it is not provided enough sunlight.
It is a massive vining species that are reported to grow up to 8 to 10 feet in length. Provide a supporting structure for it to climb on and it will be a cheery houseplant.
Leaves
The leaves of Philo quercifolium are gigantic and have emerald green coloration. They are deeply cut and multi-lobed. Although the depth of lobes varies greatly based on the age of the leaves and how mature the plant is
Flowers
The Philodendron quercifolium produces flowers nearly all year. It blooms to produce flowers that are deep pink to bright red in coloration.
Toxicity
Unfortunately, similar to other Philodendrons, this variety is also toxic to pets and people because it is enriched with crystals of calcium oxalate.
Dormancy
This plant becomes dormant during the winter season. If the temperature drops down below 50 degrees, the plant would face difficulty to survive. Therefore, keep in mind to never place it in an area that is exposed to a temperature below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Philodendron Quercifolium Care
The Philodendron quercifolium is generally easier to look after. It requires bright, unfiltered, or indirect sunlight. With sufficient amounts of fertilizer, water, humidity, as well as temperature this plant thrives well and rewards you with its bright coloration and by producing more of its unique shaped leaves. Read below to get insights on how to look after this variety properly.
Quick Care Guide
Water: When the upper 2 to 3 inches of soil becomes dry.
Sunlight: Requires bright, filtered, or indirect sunlight. It can survive in partial sunlight too.
Soil: Organic, well-draining potting mix.
Temperature: Approximately about 60 degrees to 88 degrees Fahrenheit.
Humidity: Between 60 percent to 80 percent.
Fertilizer: Balanced houseplant fertilizer only once a month.
Pruning: As required.
Re-potting: Fast-growing species, every once or twice a year.
Water Requirement
Almost every Philodendron is vulnerable to overwatering, and unfortunately, the Philodendron quercifolium is no different. Only water your plant when the soil becomes dry from the upper 2 to 3 inches. To avoid the chances of overwatering, it is recommended to check the dampness of the soil before whenever you water it.
Sunlight Requirement
Philodendron quercifolium thrives if kept in a lot of bright, filtered, or indirect sunlight. However, being a climbing vine, it is accustomed to the sunlight partially being blocked by the larger tropical plants.
It grows well in partial sunlight, however, it requires proper sunlight to thrive. In the wild, Philo quercifolium takes use of its climbing nature to climb up larger trees to take in more light.
This is why the shape, as well as the size of every leaf of this species, varies a lot. The ones that receive more sunlight grow larger and more pronounced as compared to the ones that do grow in shade.
Soil Requirement
It prefers organic, well-draining, rich potting soil to thrive. Generally, a combination of vermiculite, peat moss, and perlite is excellent for Philodendron quercifolium to grow in. This is because such type of potting mic allows aeration as well as the excess water to flow out easily.
Temperature Requirement
Being a tropical plant, it does not do well in cold climates. The preferred temperature for these species ranges between 60 degrees to 88 degrees Fahrenheit. Any temperature lower than the preferred temperatures will surely affect the growth of your plant.
It goes through a dormant state during the winter season. It can survive in a dull state when the temperature drops to 50 degrees. But make sure that the temperature does not go beyond 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Humidity Requirement
The Philodendron quercifolium thrives in high humidity. The suitable humidity range for this Philodendron ranges between 60 percent to 80 percent.
Fertilizer Requirement
In its active growing season, provide a balanced fertilizer once a month. Make sure to never overfertilize your Philo quercifolium. For best results, use a fertilizer having a 10-10-10 rating of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) levels.
Repotting Requirement
It generally grows at a fast pace. Re-pot your plant whenever you feel the need. If your Philodendron has doubled its pot size, then follow the below-given steps to re-pot your plant successfully.
- Water your plant at least 24 hours before re-potting.
- Remove your plant from its pot.
- Inspect your plant to remove any dead, damaged roots.
- Gently place your plant in a new pot.
- Fill the pot with potting soil.
- Water your quercifolium, once you are done with re-potting.
Pruning Requirement
The Philodendron quercifolium grows at a fast rate, yet it does not require to be pruned often. If you want your Philodendron to grow healthily, then make sure to get rid of damaged or dead leaves regularly.
Growth Zones
Flourishes well if kept in zones 9b to 11.
Philodendron Quercifolium Propagation
The suitable way of propagating a Philodendron quercifolium is by stem cuttings. To propagate your plant by stem cuttings, follow the below-given instructions.
- Take a healthy stem that contains a minimum of 2 leaves and cut it.
- Remove leaves from the bottom two-thirds of your stem cuttings.
- Place your cuttings in a rooting hormone.
- Plant these cuttings in a pot containing well-draining potting soil.
- Place the pot in a warm area.
- Roots will emerge within 14 days.
Final Thoughts
The Philodendron quercifolium is a decorative houseplant that can either be kept outdoors or indoors. Due to their climbing nature, these plants can climb trees or other structures nearby.
It is commonly termed the Oak leaf Philodendron and is mostly characterized by its unique and multi-lobed leaves. We hope that by reading this article, you were able to get to know about the features of Philodendron quercifolium as well as how to look after this variety properly.
