The spectacular Philodendron splash Gordon is a gorgeous-looking plant having leaves that resemble the shape of an arrow. The leaves have different patterns of molten silvery green color.
The plant is pale at the beginning of its life, and later it morphs to a deeper shade of green as they mature. Usually, these plants are kept as patio totems or even as indoor plants because of their striking appearance.
The Philodendron splash Gordon are tropical plants that are generally quite easy to care for. And similar to aroids, these plants can also be kept as indoor plants as well as grown outside in mild temperatures.
These plants prefer to grow in moist soils that are enriched with organic matter. Another specialty of this plant is that they can be grown in hanging baskets, in pots and they can even make beautiful tree wraps. Moreover, these plants can be planted outside and make a beautiful ground cover.
The temperatures at which the splash Gordon philodendron thrives are ideally between 65° F to 90° F. These plants can not tolerate freezing or cold climates, so make sure to avoid placing them in frost temperatures. In this article, we have discussed in detail how to look after this beautiful plant.
Philodendron Splash Gordon Classification
- Family: Araceae
- Genus: Philodendron
History
The Philodendron splash Gordon is reported to have been gathered from the wild since early 1644 by Georg Marcgraf. However, Charles Plumier was the person who first scientifically attempted to gather and classify these plants.
This plant is presumed as one of the ancestors of numerous tropical natural cross breeds that pass along collectors of aroids.
Features of the Philodendron Splash Gordon Plant
Structure
These plants hold on to themselves surprisingly even after they become giant-sized. This is due to the epiphytic nature of these plants, they tend to cling to other structures such as trees to find support to survive. Their stems send tough aerial roots to gather up water and other nutrients from the soil.
Size
These plants tend to grow up to 6 to 8 feet in height. However, in tropical areas, these plants grow even taller. Generally, the size of the plant mainly depends upon the growth environment that you’re providing it.
So if you notice your plant has stopped growing, then make sure to inspect your plant properly to identify the issue that might be inhibiting its growth.
Leaves
The leaves of Philodendron splash Gordon are silvery-green in color. The leaves are arrow-shaped and have irregular and deep slits. Initially, they are pale colored but as the plant matures, the leaves turn into a deeper shade of green.
Toxicity
It is not at all safe to consume this plant. This is because it contains a toxic substance known as calcium oxalate crystals, these crystals irritate the mouth as well as the esophagus.
If these toxic crystals are ingested, they might induce swelling and burning sensations in the mouth, throat, as well as on lips. It may also cause symptoms such as difficulty in breathing, vomiting, nausea, difficulty in swallowing, etc.
The juice extract from Philodendrons also causes skin irritation in some people. Symptoms might appear such as inflammation, itchiness, and reddening of the skin.
It is strictly advised to wear gloves while pruning and propagating these plants. Moreover, keep the cutting out of reach from toddlers and pets.
Dormancy
These plants do not have a standard pattern of dormancy. If you observe that your plant is not growing at its proper pace then make sure that it is getting sufficient sunlight and water.
Philodendron Splash Gordon Care
Now that you have become familiar with the Philodendron splash Gordon, let us take a look at the best possible ways to keep your plant healthy and fresh. Luckily, it is quite easy to look after this evergreen plant. Let us dive deeper to know how to keep this plant thriving.
Quick Care Guide:
- Fertilizers: 6 to 8 weeks during the growing season.
- Humidity: Approximately 60 percent or high.
- Light: Bright, indirect sunlight.
- Soil: Humus-rich.
- Temperature: Around 70° F to 85° F (21° to 29° C).
- Water: Only when the top inch of soil is dried out.
Water Requirements
It is suggested to only water your Philodendron splash Gordon if the soil is turning dry. Never allow the soil to become sun-baked. To avoid this to happen, regularly check the dampness of the soil by placing your finger in the soil.
If you feel the soil is becoming dry, then you must water your Philodendron. Note that the plants require less water in the winter season as compared to the summer season.
Fertilizer Requirements
It thrives when planted in a high-quality fertilizer. It is advised to incorporate a slow-release fertilizer approximately after every 6 to 8 weeks during the growing season (summer/spring).
Moreover, if you wish to use a weak and liquid fertilizer, then spray the liquid fertilizer only at the base. Spray the fertilizer at least 6 inches away from the base and only after watering the plant.
You must not use any fertilizer that is stronger as compared to a weak liquid or slow-release fertilizer. The Philodendrons have a relatively low tolerance for salts, the strong fertilizers might cause leaf and root burn. This is because the stronger fertilizers are packed with salt-based nutrients.
Humidity Requirements
The Philodendron splash Gordon thrives in an environment that is approximately 60 percent humid all the time. The reason behind the fact that the Philodendrons require a humid environment all the time is that these plants are native to rainforests.
Soil Requirements
Philodendron splash Gordon prefers to grow in well-draining, humus-rich soil. Usually, the soil mixtures are created for the plant to grow in.
These mixtures can either be purchased at the store or can be made at home. If you wish to make a soil mix yourself, here is an easy yet efficacious method.
- 10 percent activated charcoal
- 50 percent coco coir
- 30 percent perlite
- 10 percent vermiculite
However, it must be kept in consideration that the Philodendron mix generally be:
- Acidic (pH ranging between 5 to 6)
- Clay (just for outdoors)
- Sand (just for outdoors)
- Loam (just for outdoors)
Sunlight Requirements
The Philodendron splash Gordon flourishes well if a minimum of 5 to 8 hours of bright sunlight is provided. However, it is recommended to provide indirect sunlight rather than direct.
Because if the plants are exposed to direct sunlight for such a long duration of time, then irreparable damage might occur to the plant.
It is best to place your plant in a place where it is partially exposed to sunlight and shade, preferably near an opening that is facing towards the east or north to avoid direct exposure to sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well if placed in an area having a temperature around 70° to 85° F (21° to 29° C). However, this plant is also reported to tolerate the temperature if it drops now and then to about 60° to 70° Fahrenheit (15° to 20° C).
It is strictly advised to not let your plant be situated in an area where the temperature is below 60° Fahrenheit (15° C). Because these tropical beauties are not able to put up with the cold weather and might even die if kept in such an environment for a long duration of time.
Pruning Requirements
Philodendron splash Gordon tends to grow at a very fast pace. This is why they require to be pruned at some point. Although these plants do not require much pruning, however, it is suggested to periodically prune this tropical beauty from time to time or it might become too large for its surroundings.
It is better to occasionally prune the stems and leaves that are turning yellow due to being damaged or old. By doing so, one might easily dispose of the dead leaves and can easily extract healthy and fit branches to propagate a new plant.
Pruning your plant will not only freshen up the overall appearance of your Philodendron, but it will also add to the health of your plant.
Repotting Requirements
The most perfect time to repot your Philodendron splash Gordon plant is during the early summer or in the late spring. When the roots of your Philodendron start to poke up from the soil as well as from the drainage holes in the pot, it means that it is time for you to repot your plant.
To re-pot, this tropical plant, select a bigger pot and carefully remove it from its previous pot. Gently place it in the new pot and make sure to add new soil at the bottom of the new pot. After repotting your plant, do not forget to water it thoroughly.
Growth Zones
Usually, this plant is quite adaptable and thrives well outdoors throughout the year in zones 9 and 11. However, these fascinating plants also flourish indoors and prefer humid environments. But despite preferring humid environments, these plants also tend to do well in areas that have low humidity levels.
Although no matter how you are choosing to cultivate your plants, it is better if you understand the natural growth zones and patterns of your plant.
Philodendron Splash Gordon Propagation
If your Philodendron starts to take up much space, you can easily prune it and make more of these striking plants. To properly propagate your plant, follow the instructions carefully.
- Cut exactly below the leaf node of your plant and make sure that 2 or more healthy leaves are attached to the stem.
- Place the stem cuttings in a humid and warm environment for up to 1 to 2 hours.
- Use a Philodendron potting mix, and insert your stem cuttings in a tiny hole in the soil. Make sure that you insert your stems only a few inches deep.
- If the stems are not standing on their own, then tie them to a pole.
- Make sure to keep a regular check on its humidity, water, and all of the above-mentioned care guide steps.
Final Thoughts
The Philodendron splash Gordon plants are well known for their brilliant green foliage. These plants tend to grow at a relatively fast pace and do not pose any troubles in the way of upkeep.
This is why these plants are known as one of the easiest to look after and beginner-friendly plants. These striking plants can be kept indoors or even as outdoor plants. However certain factors such as their required humidity, soil, temperature, light, water, etc. must be kept in consideration.
