The Philodendron narinoense is a fast-growing, tropical species belonging to the family Araceae. It is a natural climber and the native range of this species of Philodendrons is Colombia to Ecuador. Primarily, it grows in the wet tropical biome.
Typically, the Philodendron narinoense is known due to its glossy green and large leaves and also its ability to climb trees or other supporting structures.
It is easy to see that it is a popular choice to keep as indoor plants mainly because these aroids eliminate harmful toxins in the air by capturing formaldehyde as well as carbon monoxide from the air.
This tropical plant grows at a fast pace and can reach up to several feet in length. They add a warm welcoming vibe to anywhere they are planted. These plants thrive well in humid climates. Read this article to get further information regarding this extraordinary species of Philodendrons.
Philodendron Narinoense Classification
Family: Araceae
Genus: Philodendron
History
The Philodendron narinoense is a beautiful tropical species of Philodendron. This species can survive in drought conditions and is native to the rainforests of Colombia and Ecuador.
This species of Philodendrons was first scientifically described in the year 2010 by C.V. Kostelac and an American botanist and plant collector Thomas Bernard Croat.
Philodendron Narinoense Plant Features
Structure
It is an epiphyte plant having dark green leaves patterned with slim yet deep veins. This climbing species of Philodendrons have slender, long, and strong stems from which their beautiful leaves emerge. The shape of the leaves resembles that of a heart and is a typical dark green color. These plants can grow up to 1 to 3 feet tall.
Size
The Philodendron narinoense if kept indoors, can reach up to the height of 1 to 3 feet in length. However, in their natural habitat, these species of Philodendron can grow up to several feet tall.
Leaves
The leaves of this plant resemble the shape of a heart. It is a common household plant because it is relatively easy to care for and has low requirements. The leaves of this tropical plant are mainly characterized by their dark green color having veins that are slim and deep.
Flowers
The beautiful Philodendron narinoense produces tiny white flowers. The spathe is approximately 13 to 14.5 cm in length and reaches up to 3 cm in diameter.
The spathe is furled around the spadix and the spadix grows about 10.7 to 11.5 cm tall. These plants surely add a vibrant touch to your home, office, gardens, etc.
Toxicity
Similar to other Philodendrons, the Philodendron narinoense is also toxic to animals as well as humans. This species of Philodendrons also contains calcium oxalate crystals which can be very harmful if consumed.
However, numerous people have also been reported to develop skin irritations as well as mucous membrane irritations due to contact with these species.
Severe symptoms such as nausea, pain, and burning sensation in the mouth, lips, and throat may arise if ingested. Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets to avoid any health problems. However, if these plants are ingested, immediately rush to the nearest hospital to avoid the progression of these symptoms.
Dormancy
Just like other Philodendrons, this Philodendron also goes through its dormant period during the winter seasons. Therefore, there will be little to no growth during the winter months.
Make sure to keep the soil moist but not mucky or too wet. Allow your plant to absorb sufficient indirect sunlight. Once the dormant period is over, your Philodendron will start to grow again.
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Philodendron Narinoense Care
The Philodendron narinoense is generally easy to look after and requires little to no maintenance. It should be watered about once every 7 days. The soil must be allowed to dry out in between the watering.
It prefers to grow in a humid environment but it can tolerate low levels of humidity as well. This tropical plant is also able to tolerate occasional drought conditions and is quite a low-maintenance gem. It is very easy to grow and can survive in almost any type of climate.
However, make sure to avoid freezing or cold climates as these plants can become dormant during the winter season. Fertilize your Philodendron to increase healthier and faster growth.
Quick Care Guide
- Water: Once every 7 days or when the top layer of soil becomes dry.
- Sunlight: Partial sunlight.
- Soil: Well-draining potting soil enriched with high organic matter.
- Temperature: Approximately about 65° F to 70° F during the night and about 75° F to 85° F during the day.
- Humidity: Prefers to grow in areas having about 65 percent to 85 percent humidity levels.
- Fertilizer: Once a month during their growing periods. And after every 6 to 8 weeks during their dormant period.
- Pruning: This species of Philodendron does not require to be pruned, prune whenever you feel necessary.
- Re-potting: As needed, or after every 2 years.
Water Requirements
This tropical plant is required to be watered once a week. Make sure to allow the soil to dry out completely in between watering. Although this species can tolerate drought conditions however it is not recommended to leave your Philodendron without water for more than 7 days.
Use lukewarm water to water your Philodendron as using cold water might put your plant in a state of shock. Avoid overwatering your aroid to eliminate the chances of root rot or fungal infections. Make sure to only water the soil and avoid watering directly to the leaves, as this can cause the leaves to rot.
Sunlight Requirements
This climbing philodendron is a hardy plant and flourishes well if placed under partial sun. However, these aroids can tolerate low light conditions, make sure to provide a sufficient amount of sunlight for your plants to grow healthy.
Never leave your Philodendron under direct sunlight for longer periods as the leaves and stems might burn or scorch. If you inhabit an area having no proper access to bright sunlight, you can use artificial lights such as fluorescent bulbs to ensure the healthy growth of your Philodendron.
Soil Requirements
The Philodendron narinoense does well in aerated, well-draining soil that is packed with high organic matter. You can also make potting mix by yourself by combining one part of perlite and two parts of peat moss. Or you can also purchase a commercial potting mix. Make sure to never let your plant sit in mucky, wet, or soggy soil to avoid any rot issues.
Temperature Requirements
It is a tropical species of Philodendron that thrives well in warm temperatures. Ideally, this beautiful plant does well if kept in temperatures ranging from 75° F to 85° F during the daytime.
Whereas, in the nighttime, it prefers to be kept in temperatures ranging from 65° F to 70° F. However, this species can also tolerate cold temperatures but the leaves might start to drop in such conditions.
Humidity Requirements
The Philodendron narinoense flourishes well in a humid environment. The ideal humidity for this species of Philodendron is about 65 percent to 85 percent.
However, this climbing philodendron can tolerate dry conditions as well but thrives well if kept in a humid area. If you live in an area having low humidity, you can elevate it by following ways.
- Group your Philodendrons with other plants.
- Place a pebble tray beneath your Philodendron.
- Use a humidifier.
Fertilizer Requirements
Make sure to fertilize your Philodendron narinoense once a month during the spring season. However, during the winter months, fertilize it after every 6 to 8 weeks. Use a balanced liquid or granular fertilizer.
Invest in a high-quality fertilizer rather than a cheap one. Or you can alternatively use manure or compost also. However, make sure to dilute it properly before using it to avoid any side effects on your Philodendron.
Repotting Requirements
The Philodendron narinoense grows at a fast pace. Therefore, it is recommended to re-pot your plant once every 2 years or whenever you feel necessary.
The ideal time to re-pot your Philodendron is during the spring season. If you wish to re-pot your Philodendron, then read the following directions to perfectly re-pot your plant.
- Make sure to water your plant one day before re-potting.
- Select a pot that is 2 inches deeper and wider as compared to the current pot.
- Gently remove your plant from its pot
- Loosen the roots using your fingers and cut off any damaged or dead roots
- Place your plant in the new pot.
- Add potting mix to the pot.
- After you are finished with re-potting, water your plant thoroughly.
Pruning Requirements
The Philodendron narinoense does not need to be pruned regularly. However, if you notice any damaged or dead leaves on your plant, you can cut them off with the help of a sharp pair of scissors or knives. You can prune your Philodendron after every 6 months to make your plant look more healthy and fresh.
Philodendron Narinoense Propagation
This plant is relatively easy to grow and propagate, thus making it a perfect option for beginner plant parents. It is a gorgeous plant that can offer life and color to any location.
If you want to add Philodendron narinoense to decorate your home, office, garden, etc. The best method is through propagation. Follow the below-given steps to propagate your Philodendron.
Propagation By Stem Cuttings:
- Cut a healthy stem having at least 2 to 3 leaves.
- Leaves towards the stem’s base should be removed.
- Dip your cutting into a powdered rooting hormone.
- Plant your cuttings in a pot filled with potting soil.
- Make sure the leaves are higher than the dirt.
- The potting soil has to be well-watered.
- Put the pot in a warm, humid environment.
- Roots will start to emerge within 2 to 4 weeks.
Propagation Through Water:
- Remove a healthy stem that is a minimum of 6 inches long.
- Take the leaves out of the cutting’s bottom.
- Place your cutting in a vase or jar filled with water
- Place the container or vase in a warm, humid environment.
- Ensure that water is completely covering the leaves.
- Keep changing the water regularly.
- Within two to four weeks, roots start to form.
- You can transplant your plant into a pot filled with potting soil after the roots begin to show.
Final Thoughts
The Philodendron narinoense is a beautiful climbing species that is beginner friendly. Due to their minimum requirements, these plants are perfect for both beginners as well as time-poor plant owners. This species is without a doubt a must-have for any aroid collector mainly because it adds a vibrant touch to its environment.
