Philodendron squamipetiolatum is an evergreen and durable plant that is perfect for adding a touch of green to any room. This article will provide all the information you need to know about this plant, including its classification, common name, and synonym.
You will also learn about its height, stems, and foliage. Additionally, we will also discuss the toxicity of this plant. Finally, we will give you some tips on how to best care for your philodendron squamipetiolatum! So let’s begin.
About
The philodendron squamipetiolatum is a species of plant in the family Araceae. It is native to Ecuador, Colombia, and Panama and is normally found in the dark rainforests of this region.
This plant typically grows to be about 30 cm (12 in) tall and 60 cm (24 in) wide. The leaves are dark green and have a glossy texture.
It does not produce any garish flowers. However, these aroids do produce colorful spadix and spathes. Not only this plant is aesthetically pleasing but also is a great source to remove toxins from the air.
Philodendron Squamipetiolatum Classification
It is classified as a monocots plant. This means that it has one seed leaf when it germinates. Additionally, this plant is classified as a herbaceous evergreen.
Herbaceous means that the plant does not have any woody stems. Evergreen means that this plant will maintain its leaves throughout the year (unlike deciduous plants which lose their leaves during winter). The plant is also classified as a tropical plant. This means that it prefers warm climates and humid environments.
Common Name and Synonym
It is also known by its scientific name Philodendron squamipetiolatum Croat. The plant is sometimes confused with the Philodendron erubescens, which is a very similar plant.
However, the two plants can be distinguished by their leaves. This philodendron plant has dark green leaves with a glossy texture, while the Philodendron erubescens has red leaves.
Features of the Philodendron Squamipetiolatum
Height
The philodendron squamipetiolatum typically grows to be about 30 cm (12 inches) tall. However, this plant can grow up to 60 cm (24 in) tall if it is given the proper conditions and care.
The plant will continue to grow until it reaches its maximum height. Once it reaches its maximum height, the growth of this plant will slow down. Overall, it’s a medium-size aroid ideal to be used as an indoor plant.
Stems and Foliage
The philodendron squamipetiolatum’s leaves come in beautiful heart shape, similar to Philodendron Esmeraldense. The leaves of this aroid start with a light pink blush that eventually hardens off to light green, giving this aroid a beautiful sight to watch.
The stems of this plant are thin and weak. As a result, the it requires support from a nearby object (such as a tree or a wall).
Evergreen and Durable
As we mentioned before, the philodendron squamipetiolatum is an evergreen plant. It is also a very durable plant and can withstand high temperatures and humid environments. Additionally, this plant does not require a lot of maintenance.
It is an ideal plant for those who want to add a touch of green to their home without having to worry about taking care of it.
Toxicity
It is a toxic plant. If ingested, this plant can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. If this plant comes into contact with your skin, it can cause redness, swelling, and itchiness. If you have pets or young children, we recommend keeping this plant out of reach.
Maintenance
The philodendron squamipetiolatum is a low-maintenance plant. It does not require much pruning, watering, or any special care and can be an ideal choice for those who love plants but do not have much time or knowledge to care for them.
Natural Air Purifier
It is a natural air purifier and can remove harmful toxins from the air, such as formaldehyde and carbon monoxide. This plant is an ideal plant for those who want to improve the quality of the air in their home.
Dormancy
The plant goes through a dormancy period during the winter. This means that the plant will stop growing and shed its leaves. During this time, we recommend reducing the amount of water you give to the plant. Once spring arrives, the plant will begin to grow again.
Philodendron Squamipetiolatum Care
Philodendron squamipetiolatum is a perennial and durable plant that is a great addition to any garden. However, like any other aroid, Squamipetiolatum requires a little care and the right surroundings to thrive.
Quick Guide:
| Water | Once or twice a week |
| Light | Bright, indirect sunlight |
| Humidity | High Humidity, 60-70% ideally |
| Fertilizer | General house plant fertilizer |
| Repotting | Larger pot to plant |
| Soil | Loose, well-draining soil, |
| Grooming & Pruning | Infrequent, before the growing season |
| Placing | A humid, warm place with indirect sunlight |
Water Requirement
Being natives of the rainforests, these philodendron loves getting a lot of water. During hot temperatures in summer, you can water this plant 1-2 times a week, as the soil is susceptible to drying quickly due to scorching heat. However, in winters, you can reduce the watering to once every 10 days.
Be aware; that this aroid is prone to root rot, so you need to set its watering schedule carefully. Always make sure to allow the soil to get dry between watering so it doesn’t get waterlogged.
Placing Requirement
As this plant is a climber, you need to provide it with a support system so it can climb. You can use a trellis, totem, or even a moss pole for this purpose. Just make sure that the support is strong enough to hold the plant as it grows.
Soil Requirement
A well-draining, organic-rich potting mix is perfect for this Philodendron, however, it can grow perfectly well in a regular household potting mix.
Make sure the pH of the soil must be around 5.1-6.0. The ideal potting mix for Philodendron Squamipetiolatum needs to be slightly acidic to help the plant hold on to nutrients and properly absorb them. Just make sure that its growing medium has a proper drainage system and air circulation.
Light Requirement
Due to its native habitat where Squamipetiolatum grows under partial shade and protection from direct sunlight, this philodendron loves shady surroundings. All you need is to mimic the same environment to grow this plant at home.
At home, choose the north or east-facing window to keep it under bright, indirect sunlight for good 6 hours. Make sure not to keep it directly on the window as this would burn its leaves.
Humidity Requirement
This plant prefers high humidity levels but can tolerate some dryness in the atmosphere. You can mist its leaves on hot days to make sure it doesn’t get too dried out.
Another good idea is to group your Philodendron Squamipetiolatum with other plants so they can create a mini humid environment for each other and also help in transpiring water vapor into the air.
Fertilizer Requirement
This Philodendron species is a fast grower, and during the spring and summer seasons, you can feed it biweekly with a diluted balanced fertilizer.
Always make sure to dilute the fertilizer as the direct application of concentrated chemicals can burn the roots of your plant. In winters, you can cut down on the fertilizer and feed it once a month.
Repotting Requirement
Philodendron Squamipetiolatum is a climber and can quickly outgrow its pot, so you need to repot it every 1-2 years in spring.
When repotting, make sure to choose a pot that is only 1-2 inches larger than the current pot as a pot that is too large can make the roots soggy and lead to root rot.
Grooming And Pruning Requirement
This plant doesn’t require much grooming, you can simply trim off the dead leaves and stems when you see them. The best time to prune your plant is in spring before the new growth begins.
Philodendron Squamipetiolatum Propagation
It is easy to propagate, and you can do it by stem cuttings.
- Take a cutting that has at least 2-3 leaves and a few inches of stem.
- Dip the cutting in rooting hormone.
- Plant it in a well-draining potting mix.
- Keep the cutting in partial shade and water it when the soil gets dry.
- The roots will develop within 2-3 weeks, and you can then slowly start acclimating them to direct sunlight.
Pests and Diseases
Philodendron Squamipetiolatum is a tough plant and doesn’t usually get affected by pests and diseases. However, if you see any pests on the plant, you can simply remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Some common diseases that can affect this plant are root rot, leaf spot, and stem rot. These diseases are usually caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To prevent them, make sure to water your plant only when the soil is dry and choose a well-draining potting mix.
Summary
If you are looking for an easy-to-maintain plant that can improve the air quality in your home, Philodendron squamipetiolatum is a great option.
This evergreen plant does not require much sunlight or water to thrive, making it a perfect addition to any room. Whether keeps it in your office, bedroom, or gardens, this plant promises to enhance the beauty of your place and give you toxins-free air to breathe in.
