A stunning and unusual tropical plant, the Philodendron Tenue is a real find. If you’re looking for some lush greenery for your house, look no further; its stunning green leaves are just what you need! In addition, it’s a highly flexible plant! As long as you know what you’re doing, it’ll flourish in your care.
Read this guide to learn how to care for this rare and exotic plant and how to exactly keep it thriving for many more years to come.
Philodendron Tenue Classification
- Scientific Name – Philodendron Tenue
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Division: Magnoliophyta
- Class: Liliopsida
- Order: Alismatales
- Family: Araceae
- Subfamily: Aroideae
- Tribe: Philodendronateae
- Genus: Philodendron
- Species: P. Tenue
About:
When it comes to tropical plants, the Philodendron Tenue is among the rarest of the rare. The plant can reach heights of 3 feet and widths of 1 foot, and its glossy, heart-shaped leaves are a deep green color.
Slim and somewhat crimson, the plant’s stems are striking. Originating in Central and South America, Tenue is now widely distributed around the world. Those places where you can find them range from Nicaragua to the southern parts of Peru and Venezuela.
The native habitat of Philodendron Tenue is atop other trees or plants; as an epiphyte, it does not require soil to survive, instead getting its nutrients from the air, moisture, and decomposing debris in its immediate vicinity. In contrast, normal potting soil works nicely for container-grown specimens of this plant.
Common Names And Synonyms
Philo Tenue is commonly known as Heartleaf Philodendron. It’s also known by its synonyms such as Philodendron gracile, P. ecuadorense, or P. sodiroanum
Biotype: This is a herbaceous plant.
Habit: The Tenue has an epiphytic habit, which means it typically grows on other plants or trees.
Cultivars: There are no known cultivars of Philodendron Tenue.
Features of Philodendron Tenue
Height and Growth:
This aroid can reach heights of up to 4 meters (13 feet) and widths of up to 1 m (3.3 feet), developing at a moderate rate of speed (1m). However, it will grow to be between 4 and 6 feet in length at home and will require an elevated perch.
Leaves and Foliage:
Philodendron tenue has juvenile leaves that are heart-shaped or oval and have a complete edge. They shine with a vivid green hue.
There is a lot of length to the petioles, and the leaves can become up to 12 inches long and 8 inches wide. The major veins of a leaf typically number between 10 and 16, with each one branching from the midrib.
Maturated leaves, on the other hand, can grow to be an impressive 12.2 to 30.7 inches (31 to 78 centimeters) in length and 6.2 to 20.5 inches (16 to 52 centimeters) in width. They are oval to elongated in shape, glossy, and develop a dark green to grayish-green hue.
Stems and Flowers:
The stems of this Philodendron are slightly slender, terete (round in cross-section), and have a bright to deep red hue. The internodes are relatively long, measuring around 1.2 to 4 inches (3 to 10 centimeters) in length.
Flowers develop on spadices that are partially hidden by bracts. They are petiolate, measuring 0.8 to 1.6 inches (2 to 4 centimeters) in length, and have a cream-colored hue with light green spots.
Spathes are lanceolate to ovate in shape and can be 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) long and 2.4 to 3.2 inches (6 to 8 centimeters) wide. They have a deep green hue on the exterior and a whitish-green hue on the interior.
Flowering Season:
This plant blooms in summer, typically between July and August in most regions.
Growth Habit:
The Philodendron Tenue is an epiphytic plant, which means it typically grows on other plants or trees.
Evergreen and Durable:
The Tenue is an evergreen plant that will retain its leaves all year round. It is also a durable plant that can withstand some abuse and neglect.
Toxicity:
All parts of the Tenue plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can irritate the skin, mouth, tongue, and throat. If ingested, this plant can cause stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is advisable to keep this plant out of reach of children and pets.
Low Maintenance:
The Philodendron Tenue is a low-maintenance plant that does not require much care. It is, however, important to keep an eye on the leaves and stems for any signs of pests or diseases.
Dormancy:
During the colder months, this plant enters a dormant state, during which growth stops, and the leaves may fall off. During this time, you shouldn’t water the plant or repot it.
Drought Tolerance:
This philodendron species can tolerate dry spells and is drought-tolerant. However, it’s crucial to consistently water the plant and to maintain the soil moist during the growing season.
Uses:
This plant can be used as a houseplant, in terrariums, or as a groundcover. It is also sometimes used in floral arrangements.
Air Purification:
The Tenue is known to help purify the air and remove harmful toxins.
Philodendron Tenue – Care Guide:
Light Requirements
For the best possible growth, position your Philodendron so that it receives indirect light rather than direct sunshine. Because it prefers to grow in moist, woodland environments, this plant is not accustomed to being exposed to direct sunlight.
Even though you may be tempted to, you should not place your plant in an area that receives insufficient light. Even yet, exposure to direct sunlight is necessary for the Philodendron Tenue. The amount of light that should be directed into a Tenue should be between 200 and 400 FC.
Impacts of bad Lighting Condition:
If the plant does not receive enough light, its growth will be stunted, and it may lose its leaves. If the plant is exposed to too much direct sunlight, the leaves will develop brown spots.
Watering Requirements
The Philodendron Tenue should be watered regularly, letting the soil entirely dry out between waterings. During the growing season, which is typically from spring to fall, you should water your plant about once a week. In the winter, when the plant is dormant, you can reduce watering to about once every two weeks.
It is important to note that overwatering can be just as harmful to the Philodendron Tenue as underwatering. If the plant is overwatered, the roots will rot, and the plant will eventually die.
Signs of Over and Underwatering:
If the Tenue is overwatered, the leaves will turn yellow and drop off. If the plant is underwatered, the leaves will turn brown and dry out.
Fertilizing Requirements
The Philodendron Tenue should be fertilized about once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. In the winter, when the plant is dormant, you can reduce fertilizing to about once every two months or even better to ‘no’ fertilizer at all.
Tenue shouldn’t be overfertilized since this can burn the roots and harm the plant.
Ideal Type Of Fertilizer For Tenue:
A good fertilizer for this Philodendron should be high in nitrogen and low in phosphorus. A fertilizer with a ratio of 10-5-5 or 20-10-10 is ideal.
Temperature Requirements
The Philodendron Tenue prefers warm temperatures and will not tolerate frost. It should be kept in an area with a temperature between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
If the temperature drops below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, the plant may go into dormancy. However, it will usually recover once the temperature rises again.
Lowest and Highest Temperature Requirement For Tenue:
The Philodendron Tenue can tolerate temperatures as low as 64-60 degrees Fahrenheit but will not do well if the temperature drops below this. The plant should also not be exposed to temperatures higher than 90 ℉.
Humidity Requirements
The Philodendron prefers high humidity and will do best in an environment with a relative humidity of 60% or higher. If the air is too dry, the leaves will begin to brown and dry out.
Putting your plant on a pebble tray or using a humidifier can help it thrive in low-humidity conditions.
Soil Requirements
Soil that drains quickly and easily is ideal for this plant. Because of its susceptibility to root rot in poorly draining soil, the Philodendron does not thrive in the usual potting mix.
The Ideal Potting Mix For Tenue Should Have:
- Perlite
- Coco Coir
- Orchid Bark
Pruning Requirements
Pruning is not necessary for the Philodendron Tenue, but if you wish to shape your plant or remove damaged leaves, it can be done. To prune the plant, simply cut the stem at the desired length with a sharp knife or garden shears.
Be sure to disinfect your tools before and after pruning the plant to avoid spreading diseases.
Potting and Repotting Requirements
Every two to three years, you should re-pot your Philodendron Tenue. When repotting, only use a container that is one size larger than the one the plant is currently in.
To pot or repot the plant, start by removing it from the current pot and lightly brushing away any old soil from the roots.
Next, fill the new pot with new, well-draining soil before adding the plant. Thoroughly water the plant and give the dirt surrounding the roots a gentle massage.
Placing Requirements
The Philodendron should be placed in an area with bright, indirect light. The plant can tolerate some direct sun, but too much sun will cause the leaves to scorch.
If you live in a climate that is too cold for the plant, you can place it near a south-facing window or under grow lights.
Propagation – How To Propagate Philodendron Tenue (Step by Step)
Stem Cutting:
To propagate this aroid by stem cutting, you will need a sharp knife or pruners, a 3-inch pot, and some well-draining soil.
- Start by cutting a 4 to 6-inch piece from the end of a healthy stem. Make sure to cut just below a leaf node, which is where the leaves attach to the stem.
- Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and dip the end in the rooting hormone.
- Fill your pot with well-draining soil and plant the cutting about an inch deep.
- Place the cutting in a warm, humid atmosphere after thoroughly watering it.
- You should notice new growth in 4 to 6 weeks if you keep the soil moist but not damp.
- Once the plant is established, you can transplant it into a larger pot.
Air Layering:
To propagate the Philodendron by air layering, you will need some clear plastic wrap, a toothpick, and some well-draining soil.
- Start by finding a healthy stem on the plant that is at least 6 inches long. Cut a 1-inch slit in the bark about halfway down the stem.
- Insert the toothpick into the slit to keep it open.
- Wrap the plastic wrap around the stem, making sure to cover the slit completely.
- Secure the plastic wrap in place with tape or a rubber band.
- Water the plant well and wait for roots to form. This can take 4 to 6 weeks.
- Once the roots have formed, you can cut the stem below the plastic wrap and transplant the new plant into a pot.
Pests and Diseases
The Philodendron Tenue is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Additionally, it is prone to root rot, which can be brought on by excessive watering or inadequate drainage. If you think your plant has root rot, you should remove it from the pot and replant it in fresh, well-draining soil.
Common Problems and Solutions
Wilting Leaves:
The Philodendron Tenue’s leaves beginning to wilt is typically an indication that the plant isn’t getting enough water. Make sure to water the plant thoroughly and check the soil for moisture before watering again.
Yellow Leaves:
Overwatering or too direct sunlight are the two main causes of yellow leaves on plants. Move the plant to a location with bright, indirect light and make sure to water only when the soil is dry.
Brown Spots on Leaves:
Brown spots on the leaves of the plant are usually caused by too little water or too much direct sun. Water the plant thoroughly and make sure to place it in an area with bright, indirect light.
Root Rot:
The Philodendron Tenue is susceptible to root rot, which can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage. If you think your plant has root rot, you should remove it from the pot and replant it in fresh, well-draining soil.
Pro-Tips For Easily Growing Philodendron Tenue
Here are a few tips to help you grow a healthy Tenue:
- Make sure to water the plant thoroughly, but allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Put the plant in a spot that receives plenty of indirect light.
- Repot the plant every two to three years.
- Be careful not to overwater or underwater the plant. Both can cause problems for the Tenue.
- Watch for brown spots on the leaves, which can be a sign of too much direct sun. Move the plant to a location with brighter light if this occurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is philodendron tenue rare?
Yes, philodendron tenue is quite rare. It is native to tropical regions of South America and is not commonly found in cultivation.
How do you care for Philodendron Tenue:
The Philodendron Tenue is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and high humidity to thrive. When growing it, make sure to water the plant thoroughly and place it in an area with bright, indirect light. The plant should also be repotted every two to three years.
Is philodendron tenue a climber?
No, philodendron tenue is not a climber. It is an epiphytic plant, which means it grows on other plants or trees in the wild.
How big does philodendron tenue get?
Philodendron Tenue can grow to be quite large. The plant can reach up to 6 feet in height and 4 feet in width.
How do you propagate Philodendron Tenue?
Philodendron Tenue is propagated by cutting or air layering. Take a 6-inch clipping from a healthy plant and remove the bottom leaves. Dip the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in moist, well-drained soil.
To the air layer, locate a site with leaves and roots. Cut the stem and insert moist sphagnum moss. Cover the area with plastic and wait for roots to form. When the roots have grown, cut the stem below the plastic wrap and pot the plant in wet, well-draining soil.
Conclusion
The Philodendron Tenue is a stunning and low-maintenance houseplant that looks fantastic anywhere. The Tenue is a vining plant with glossy green leaves that can be used to enhance the sophistication of any setting.
So, if you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant to add to your collection, the Philodendron Tenue is a great choice!
