Looking forward to adorning your lounge and indoor places with extreme exotic plants? Look no further than Philodendron Bicolor. Native to tropical South America, this plant is extremely rare and expensive, but if you are passionate about rare, magnificent, and unique exotic plants, then it totally worth it.
This plant features unique, pendant leaves that give it that startling appeal to make any place look lavish and extravagant. So if you have that zing and are ready to be the proud parents of these beautiful and expensive philodendrons, read this guide to know more about this plant, and learn how to give them the proper care they need to thrive. So let’s begin.
Philodendron Bicolor Classification
Type: Herbaceous evergreen
Form: Scandent chamaephytes
Family: Araceae
Kingdom: Plantae
Order: Alismatales
Genus: Philodendron
About:
Northern Peru is the original home of the Philodendron bicolor. Like its name, the linear-oblong leaves of this tropical plant come in a variety of shades of green, from dark to light.
The stems of the plant are similarly green, and they can grow to be many inches in length. Usually, it produces its little white flowers in the spring. The soil should be moist but well-drained for this plant to thrive. With some TLC, this showy plant can brighten up any room in the house.
Common Name and Synonym: Tree Philodendron, Bicolored Philodendron
Etymology
The word ‘Philodendron’ is derived from two Greek words ‘Philos’ and ‘dendron’ which mean ‘love’ and ‘tree’, respectively. The name was given by Carolus Linnaeus, the father of taxonomy. The specific epithet ‘bicolor’ is from Latin and it refers to having two colors.
Botanical Description
It is a fast-growing, scrambling, evergreen climber that can attain a height of up to 2m (6.5 ft). The leaves are simple, glossy, and pendant shaped.
The petioles are long (up to 20 cm or 8 inches), thick, and sheathed at the base. The inflorescence is an axillary spadix that is enveloped by a spathe with small, white, and bisexual flowers.
Features of the Philodendron Bicolor Plant
Height:
Philodendron Bicolor is the fastest growing, variegated climbing plant that can grow up to 2m (6.5 ft) in height and can spread around 75-100 cm if provided with proper care and environment.
Foliage:
The foliage is the most distinctive and alluring feature of this plant. Its leaves are simple, ovate-shaped, alternately arranged, and pendant. The leaves of this plant feature gorgeous dark green on top and a rich burgundy underneath.
The leaves grow up to 40 cm (16 inches) in length and 20 cm (8 inches) in width. The margins of the leaves are entire with a slightly undulate appearance.
Flowers:
The inflorescence is an axillary spadix that is enveloped by a spathe with small, white, and bisexual flowers.
Evergreen and Durable:
Philodendron Bicolor is an evergreen plant that can last for a really long time, provided it is given the proper care.
Variegated:
The leaves of Philodendron Bicolor are variegated with dark green on top and rich burgundy underneath, which makes it look extremely beautiful and exotic.
Drought Tolerance:
This plant is drought tolerant and can survive for long periods without water which makes it an ideal plant for busy people who often forget to water their plants on time.
Maintenance:
This plant is generally easy to care for and maintain. However, it is important to keep an eye out for certain pests and diseases that can affect the health of your plant.
Dormancy:
It is normal for this plant to go through a dormancy period during the winter months. During this time, the plant will not grow or produce new leaves. However, it is important to keep the plant alive during this time by providing it with basic care. Make sure not to overwater it because this plant hates the dampness.
Toxicity:
This plant is toxic to both humans and animals if ingested. The sap of the plant can cause irritation to the skin. If you suspect that your plant has been ingested, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
Uses
- Ornamental Use:
Philodendron Bicolor is mostly grown as an ornamental plant because of its unique and beautiful leaves. It is a perfect plant to adorn your indoor places and makes them look lavish and exotic.
- Air Purifier:
it is an excellent air purifier and can remove harmful toxins from the air. This plant is especially beneficial for people who suffer from allergies or respiratory problems.
Philodendron Bicolor Care
To maintain a healthy Philodendron Bicolor, you don’t have to do anything. This unusual Philo does exceptionally well with low light, low water, and extreme humidity. Nonetheless, there are a few things to keep in mind if you want your plant to reach its full adult height.
Quick Care Guide:
| Water | Keep soil moist not waterlogged |
| Light | Bright, indirect sunlight |
| Humidity | High Humidity, 60-85% ideally |
| Fertilizer | Once a month in growing season |
| Repotting | Larger pot to plant, every 2-3 years |
| Soil | Moist, well-draining soil |
| Grooming & Pruning | Only when needed |
| Placing | Warm and moist place |
Water Requirement
Philodendron Bicolor is a tropical plant that thrives in humid environments. It doesn’t like to dry out, so make sure to water it regularly, especially during the summer months.
The best way to water this plant is to use a spray bottle and mist the leaves evenly. You can also dunk the entire pot in a sink or bucket of water and let it drain thoroughly before placing it back in its spot.
Light Requirement
It is recommended that the Philodendron Bicolor be given a lot of indirect light. Please be aware that it requires a light source that is not directly overhead. Outside, in the shade is perfect. However, you should avoid keeping it in direct sunlight.
The plant prefers bright environments, although it cannot survive in direct sunlight. This is due to the fact that the plant’s natural environment is shaded by taller trees and vegetation.
Fertilizer Requirement
Philodendron Bicolor doesn’t need much fertilizer, but you can feed it once a month during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer and mix it with water before watering your plant. Be sure to flush the roots every few months to prevent salt buildup.
Humidity Requirement
This plant loves humidity and should be misted regularly, especially during the summer months. You can also place the pot on a tray of pebbles and water to increase the humidity around the plant.
Temperature Requirement
Philodendron Bicolor prefers warm temperatures and should be kept between 60 -85 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it can tolerate cooler temperatures as long as it is not exposed to drafts or cold winds.
Pruning Requirement
This plant does not require much pruning, but you can trim off any dead leaves or stems as needed. You can also prune the plant to shape it and control its size.
Placing Requirement
Philodendron Bicolor can be placed in a variety of locations. It does well in both indoor and outdoor spaces. When choosing a location for your plant, make sure to select an area that receives bright, indirect light. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as this can damage the leaves.
Repotting Requirement
This plant does not need to be repotted often, but it should be done every two or three years. When repotting, be sure to use a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one. This will help prevent the roots from becoming too crowded.
It is also important to use a well-draining potting mix. A mix that is too dense can cause the roots to rot. Be sure to water the plant well after repotting and place it in bright, indirect light.
Philodendron Bicolor Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Philodendron Bicolor is by division. This can be done by carefully removing the plant from its pot and dividing the roots into two or more sections. Each section should have at least one leaf attached.
Once you have divided the plant, you can pot each section in its own pot filled with soil. Be sure to water the plants well and place them in bright, indirect light. The plants should start to produce new growth within a few weeks.
Another way to easily propagate this plant is by stem cuttings. To do this, take a cutting that has at least two leaves and a few inches of stem. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cutting in rooting hormone before planting it in a moist potting mix. Water the cutting regularly and keep it in a warm, humid environment until it has roots.
Pests And Diseases
Pests:
Philodendron Bicolor is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but there are a few things to watch out for. Spider mites, mealybugs, and scale can be a problem if the plant is not kept moist. These pests are attracted to dry conditions and can quickly infest a the plant that is not being properly cared for.
If you see any of these pests on your plant, it is important to take action immediately. The best way to get rid of them is to use a mixture of water and soap and spray the plant thoroughly. You can also use an insecticide, but be sure to follow the directions carefully.
Diseases:
Diseases are not common in Philodendron Bicolor, but root rot can be a problem if the plant is overwatered. This disease is caused by a fungus that thrives in damp conditions. If you think your plant has root rot, it is important to take action immediately. The best way to treat this disease is with a fungicide.
Once you have treated the plant, be sure to water it less frequently and allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Final Notes
Philodendron Bicolor is a beautiful plant that is easy to care for. With proper care, it will thrive and produce new growth. This plant is also very easy to propagate, so you can enjoy it for many years to come. Thanks for reading! We hope this guide was helpful.
A complete guide about philodendron bicolor. it is a beautiful plant that is easy to care for and propagate. With proper care, it will thrive and produce new growth.
