Houseplants are a great way to bring the beauty of nature indoors. They not only add a touch of greenery to your living space but also provide a host of benefits such as purifying the air, reducing stress levels, and boosting your mood. One such houseplant that has gained immense popularity in recent times is the Lacy Tree Philodendron. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about this beautiful and low-maintenance houseplant.
Introduction
The Lacy Tree Philodendron, also known as the Selloum Philodendron or Philodendron bipinnatifidum, is a tropical evergreen plant native to South America. It belongs to the family Araceae, which includes other popular houseplants such as the Monstera and the Peace Lily. The Lacy Tree Philodendron is characterized by its large, glossy leaves that are deeply lobed and pinnatifid, giving it a lacy appearance.
Why Choose Lacy Tree Philodendron as a Houseplant?
There are several reasons why the Lacy Tree Philodendron is a great choice for a houseplant. Firstly, it is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a wide range of conditions. It can tolerate low light and drought, making it a great option for beginners or those with busy schedules. Secondly, its large leaves and attractive appearance make it a great statement piece for any room.
Features
Large leaves:
The Lacy Tree Philodendron has large, glossy leaves that are deeply lobed and pinnatifid, giving it a lacy appearance. The leaves can grow up to 3 feet long and 2 feet wide.
Evergreen:
The Lacy Tree Philodendron is an evergreen plant, meaning it retains its leaves throughout the year.
Air-purifying:
The Lacy Tree Philodendron is known for its ability to purify the air by removing harmful toxins like formaldehyde and benzene.
Low-maintenance:
The Lacy Tree Philodendron is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a wide range of conditions. It can tolerate low light and drought, making it a great option for beginners or those with busy schedules.
Tropical:
The Lacy Tree Philodendron is a tropical plant native to South America, making it a great choice for those looking to bring a touch of the tropics into their homes.
How to Care
Light
Lacy Tree Philodendrons are a versatile plant that can adapt to a wide range of light conditions, from low to bright indirect light. However, they prefer bright, indirect light and can become leggy if placed in low light conditions for an extended period of time. It is best to place your plant near a window that receives bright, indirect light for a few hours each day.
Watering
The Lacy Tree Philodendron prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. To ensure proper hydration for the plant, it is recommended to water it when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. It is important to avoid overwatering the plant, as this can lead to root rot, a serious condition that can harm or even kill the plant. It is also important to ensure that the pot has adequate drainage to prevent water from pooling at the bottom.
Humidity
The Lacy Tree Philodendron prefers high humidity levels and can benefit from being misted regularly. You can also place a tray of water near the plant or use a humidifier to increase the humidity levels.
Temperature
The Lacy Tree Philodendron prefers warm temperatures between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is important to keep the plant away from cold drafts, as this can cause damage to the leaves.
Fertilizer
The Lacy Tree Philodendron benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer). You can use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is best to dilute the fertilizer to half strength and apply it once a month.
Pruning
The Lacy Tree Philodendron can grow quite large over time and may require pruning to keep its shape. You can prune the plant by cutting off any dead or yellowing leaves or by cutting back any overgrown stems. It is best to use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation
The Lacy Tree Philodendron can be propagated through stem cuttings. To do this, select a healthy stem with several leaves and make a clean cut just below a node. Remove any lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot with well-draining soil and keep it in a warm, humid location with bright, indirect light. Water the cutting when the soil feels dry to the touch and wait for roots to develop before transplanting it into a larger pot.
Common Problems
Despite being a low-maintenance plant, the Lacy Tree Philodendron can still face some common issues. Here are a few problems you may encounter and how to address them:
Yellowing leaves – This can be caused by overwatering or underwatering. Check the soil moisture levels and adjust your watering accordingly.
Brown leaf tips – This can be caused by low humidity levels or overfertilization. Increase the humidity levels around the plant and reduce the frequency of fertilization.
Pest infestations – Common pests that can affect the Lacy Tree Philodendron include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of the pests.
Conclusion
The Lacy Tree Philodendron is a beautiful and low-maintenance houseplant that can add a touch of greenery to any living space. It is a great air-purifying plant that can thrive in a wide range of conditions, making it a great choice for beginners or those with busy schedules. With proper care, the Lacy Tree Philodendron can grow into a stunning statement piece that will brighten up any room.
META DESCRIPTION: Add a touch of the tropics to your home with the Lacy Tree Philodendron – a low-maintenance, air-purifying, and evergreen houseplant.
