Growing Magnificent Philodendron Splendid Houseplants

What is Philodendron Splendid?

Philodendron Splendid is a unique philodendron cultivar created by crossing two tropical vining plants - Philodendron verrucosum and Philodendron melanochrysum. The result is a velvety-leafed trailing or climbing plant that makes an excellent indoor houseplant.

Appearance and Growth Habits

This hybrid philodendron features olive green heart-shaped leaves with ruffled edges. The foliage has a soft velvety texture often compared to velvet. With proper care and in optimal conditions, the leaves can grow over 2 feet long!

Like other philodendrons, Philodendron Splendid can be grown as a vine supported on a moss pole or allowed to trail over the edges of bookshelves or tabletops. It has an aggressive climbing growth habit when given proper support.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Native to Brazilian rainforests, this plant thrives in warm humid environments in the home. It flourishes with average room temperatures between 60-80°F and appreciates higher humidity levels around 50-60%.

Bright filtered sunlight is ideal for Philodendron Splendid. Direct hot sunlight will scorch its foliage. Place in an east, west, or north facing window where it can receive gentle indirect sunlight everyday.

How to Care for Philodendron Splendid

Caring for this low-maintenance plant mainly involves providing proper moisture, humidity, light levels, and using a well-draining potting mix.

Soil

Use a good quality potting mix that retains some moisture but also drains well. A blend containing peat moss, perlite, bark chips, and compost works perfectly. You can also add some orchid bark to improve drainage and aeration to prevent root rot.

Watering

Philodendron Splendid needs consistently moist (but not soggy wet) soil to thrive. Water whenever the top inch of soil becomes dry. Use room temperature filtered or distilled water rather than cold tap water which can shock its tropical roots.

Always pour off any water collected in the saucer beneath its pot after 30 minutes so it doesn't sit in standing water which leads to disease. Drooping yellow leaves often indicate overwatering.

Humidity

Misting the leaves every few days and using a pebble tray filled with water can boost moisture levels around your philodendron. Consider using an electric humidifier during dry winter months when home heating systems run often.

Fertilizer

Feed monthly in spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce application to every 6-8 weeks during fall and winter when growth naturally slows.

How to Propagate Philodendron Splendid

This vining philodendron is very easy to propagate! Just snip off a stem with 3-4 leaves, insert into moist potting mix, enclose in a plastic bag, and place in bright indirect light. New roots and baby foliage should emerge within a few weeks.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Why are my philodendron leaves turning yellow?

Overwatering that leads to soggy soil and roots sitting in water is the most common reason for yellowing foliage. Check if your plant needs repotting if it's been a while - rootbound plants are more susceptible to overwatering damage. Underwatering can also cause similar symptoms.

Why do leaf tips turn brown?

Hot dry air, inconsistent watering, and/or fertilizer burn can cause philodendron leaf tips to turn brown. Trim off any unsightly damage with clean shears to maintain the plant's appearance.

Why are the stems long with small leaves?

Insufficient lighting results in lanky growth as the plant stretches searching for light. Move it closer to a bright window or supplement with a grow light to encourage lush compact growth.

Reasons to Grow Philodendron Splendid

This easy-care splendid plant makes an excellent addition for first-time houseplant growers. A few key reasons to add one to your indoor jungle:

• Uniquely ruffled foliage with pretty velvety sheen
• Trailing vine or climbing growth habit options
• Thrives in typical indoor conditions
• Filters indoor air pollutants
• Very easy to propagate

With its tropical flair and vibrant leaves, Philodendron Splendid brings life to any space it inhabits. This hardy hybrid is sure to become your new favorite houseplant!

FAQs

How much light does Philodendron Splendid need?

Philodendron Splendid thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it near an east, west, or north facing window where it will receive gentle filtered sunlight throughout the day without direct sun exposure which can scorch its leaves.

What is the best soil for Philodendron Splendid?

Use a well-draining potting mix for philodendrons - a blend of peat moss, perlite, bark chips, and compost. You can add orchid bark to improve drainage and prevent root rot in its constantly moist soil.

Should I mist my Philodendron Splendid?

Yes, misting is an easy way to boost moisture and humidity around your philodendron.Aim for its leaves every few days along with using a pebble tray filled with water to maintain 50-60% humidity which it prefers.

How do I propagate Philodendron Splendid?

Propagating this philodendron is very easy! Just take stem cuttings with a few leaves, place in moist potting mix, enclose in a plastic bag, and set in bright indirect light. New roots and shoots should emerge within a few weeks.