Are you fond of growing rare houseplants? If yes then Philodendron Rugosum is the most suitable houseplant for you. It is an adaptable, friendly, and easy-growing house plant.
Its widely known elegancy is because of its round-edged lush green leaves. These leaves possess a thick and unique texture that makes this plant different from other philodendrons.
For knowing more about this rare philodendron, keep reading.
Classification of Philodendron Rugosum
Family: Araceae
Sub-family: Aroideae
Genus: Philodendron
Origin And Distribution
This auspicious plant originates within the rain forests of Ecuador and cultivates in the Andes mountains at the height of 3000-5000 feet.
It was first identified and described in 1983 and became popular with the nickname Pigskin. This nickname is because of the peculiar shape and texture of its leaves.
Features of Philodendron Rugosum Plant
Quick Plant Features:
Plant habit: Herb/forb
Resistances: Humidity resistant
Life cycle: Perennial
Maximum cold hardiness: Zone 11
Minimum cold hardiness: Zone 10b
Preservation Status: Near to Threatened
Leaves
The leaves are the most appealing parts of the plant that makes every plant different from the other one. This tropical plant has leathery thick leaves and the texture of leaves is similar to hide. These leaves while growing wrinkle and get collected near the stem, thus resembling an alien pig ear.
Size
This perennial plant is a climber and can climb up to the height of 6-12 feet.
Growth
Philodendron Rugosum having a vining growing pattern takes off quickly during its growing season. However, this quick growth rate is only observed during the growing season and slows down during other seasons. Therefore, this tropical plant takes several seasons to reach maturity.
Maintenance
It is an adaptable and easily manageable plant. Therefore, you can enjoy its beauty and charm with little care and time.
Durability
These perennial plants are hard and durable and can survive for years after maturity.
Evergreen
Philodendron Rugosum like other family members keeps adorning your house throughout the year because of its love for all seasons. This is the reason that it is known as an evergreen plant.
Air Purifier
Like other philodendrons, Rugosum Philodendron also takes care of its surroundings and cleans the air. It removes the pollutant and toxins from the air and makes it worth breathing. This is the reason air purification is a distinctive quality of all philodendrons.
Toxicity
Like other philodendrons, it is toxic to both pets and children. Therefore, while growing this houseplant, you must place the plant’s container away from pets and children.
Care Guide For Philodendron Rugosum
Light Requirements
Philodendron Rugosum possessing tropical heritage blooms beautifully in bright indirect or partial sunlight. They are neither comfortable in low light nor they like intense sunlight. Therefore, you must provide them with bright indirect light to enjoy the full beauty of this spectacular houseplant.
Temperature Requirements
Despite its tropical heritage, Philodendron Rugosum does not need blasted heat for its optimal growth. The best temperature range is 15°C to 32°C. Any temperature above this range will lead to drooping of leaves.
Likely any temperature below this range is also injurious and leads to stunt growth. This is the reason that the temperature within the surroundings of the plant should not drop below 12°C. In case if you are growing your plant outside then you must move it inside during the winter season.
Soil Requirements
Though these plants are adaptable, however, they thrive best in soils having a well-draining capacity and do not cause waterlogging. Aroid soil is the best example of the soil ideal for the growth of your Philodendron Rugosum.
This soil mix is present in stores and can also be prepared at home. You can prepare an Aroid soil at home by following a simple recipe focusing on a rule of three i.e., one-third orchard bark, one-third soil base rich in peat, and one-third perlite.
The pH of the soil must range from slightly acidic (6.1-6.5) to neutral (6.5-7.3). Any deviation within the soil pH may be injurious to the health of your plant.
Water Requirements
The water need is the first thing where you start noticing that Philodendron Rugosum is different from other philodendrons. The plant is fond of moist soils and you should prevent the upper soil from drying.
To fulfill the water requirements, it is recommended to water your plant one to two times a week. Soaking your soil with water is best for the healthy growth of your plant instead of simply watering it as it moistens the soil adequately.
Humidity Requirements
Like other tropical plants, Philodendron Rugosum flourishes beautifully in humid environments. The perfect humidity level for your plant is anything between 70-90%. This humidity level is higher than the normal humidity level, therefore, you can provide the required humidity levels artificially.
The recommended methods for ensuring adequate humidity levels are misting and installing humidifiers. Moreover, grouping the houseplants is another effective way to increase the humidity levels and fulfill plants’ requirements.
Fertilizer Requirements
If you forget to fertilize your plant then there is no need to worry as it only needs occasional feeding. A nutrient-rich fertilizer of a renowned brand is good enough for the growth of your Philodendron Rugosum.
The fertilizer should have the perfect blend of both macro and micronutrients. You can add fertilizer once a month during the summer or spring season and make it after 6-7 months during the winter or fall season.
Repotting Requirements
Rugosum Philodendron does not require frequent repotting. However, it does not mean that you should ignore them. You should keep an eye on their growing pattern. If you observe roots jabbing out of drainage holes upon lifting the pot then it is the time when you must repot your plant.
Roots while growing must stick to the pot as otherwise the growth of the plant will be affected negatively. Therefore, it is recommended that repot your plant once a year after every growing season. While repotting ensure that the new pot is only a few inches larger than the previous pot.
Pruning Requirements
Growing this houseplant is very easy. You can enjoy its beauty without any tension of regular pruning. Pruning is only required in case the dead or withered leaves appear. In some cases, it is required when leaves become larger enough and start appearing outside the pot.
Using growing aid to guide the growth of the plant in a straight direction is also recommended for these plants. Moreover, it also eliminates the need for pruning.
Philodendron Rugosum Propagation
Another good news about this indoor plant is that it can be propagated very easily. Anyone can easily propagate this plant and spread its charm by following these steps:
- Firstly, identify a mature plant
- Arrange water, container, and adequate soil mixture
- Choose a stem/branch to cut and cut it below the node
- While cutting make a neat and clean cut
- Fill the new container with soil mixture and then moisten it with water
- After this, plant the cut stems 1-2 inches deep in the soil and bury its nodes deeply within the soil
- Now place the container receiving adequate bright indirect light
- Take care of your baby plant and enjoy its beauty after a few weeks
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Common Issues
Let’s discuss some common issues you might face while growing these plants. Some common issues are:
The pale green color of leaves
This tropical plant is popular for its bright green color. Therefore, the pale green color of leaves is an indication of a serious issue.
This issue is primarily because of an inadequate supply of calcium and magnesium. Replacing the soil of plants having these minerals or adding fertilizer enriched in these nutrients can address this issue.
Yellowed leaves with brown-colored halos
This type of coloring problem is due to overwatering that welcomes fungal growth across the leaves. Decreasing the humidity levels and lowering the watering frequency may resolve this issue.
Curling and browning of leaves
In contrast to the previous issue, the curling and browning of leaves are because of under-watering. For addressing this issue, it is recommended to increase the humidity levels and water the plant thoroughly.
Final Thoughts
Philodendron Rugosum is one of the most worth choosing rare plants. You can easily embellish any corner or windowsill of your house or office by providing it with bright indirect light and occasional water. Feeding it once a month is enough for fulfilling its nutrient requirements.
The low-maintenance plant keeps thriving throughout the year. However, you must protect your pets and children from ingesting the leaves of this plant.
