Philodendron Splendid makes a perfect houseplant for the lover of monster plants that require minimal maintenance.
However, these tropical plants require a warm and humid condition native to the Ecuadorian region to produce engrossed, large leaves.
A healthy plant will attain a mesmerizing size of five to six feet and clusters of velvety green foliage.
In general, Philodendron Splendid is a Philo-hybrid that thrives in 55 to 80°F temperature, 60% humidity, rich and well-draining soil, 6-8 hours of bright indirect sunlight, weekly watering, and nitrogen-rich monthly fertilizer.
Moreover, they would grow relatively quickly when provided with great care but do not mistake them for their vining counterparts.
Read on to find out how to best care for your Philodendron Splendid at home.
Table of Contents
- Overview of Philodendron Splendid
- Where to Buy Philodendron Splendid?
- Philodendron Splendid- Complete Grow & Care Guide
- Growth Rate of Philodendron Splendid
- Toxicity of Philodendron Splendid
- Propagating Philodendron Splendid
- Common Problems in Philodendron Splendid
- Philodendron Splendid vs. Gloriosum
- FAQs about Philodendron Splendid
- Conclusion
Overview of Philodendron Splendid
Did you know Philodendron Splendid is a hybrid cultivar of two magnificent species; Philodendron melanochrysum and Philodendron verrucosum?
Philodendron Splendid was hybridized by Keith Henderson in the 1980s (Cairns/Townsville, Australia) and named by Neil Crafter in 2018.
It originally hails from the tropical rainforests of Ecuador.
The rare hybridization gives it the signature large, spear-shaped leaves with an almost purple shine.
You could tell the plant inherits more than verrucosum because it has P. verrucosum’s blushing red leaf undersides (abaxial) and dark green leaf blades.
A single leaf could grow up to two feet long and one foot wide, requiring more room space.
The emerging leaves boast a distinct orange-purple-brown color showing clear verrucosum parentage.
Here is a table highlighting the basic information about Philodendron Splendid.
Indicator | Identity |
---|---|
Scientific Name | Philodendron verrucosum x melanochrysum |
Common Name | Philodendron Splendid |
Native | South America |
Family | Araceae |
Growth Zone | USDA Hardiness Zones 10-11 |
Plant Type | Epiphytic plant |
Growth Size | Grows 5-6 feet long Grows up to 10 feet long in the natural habitat |
Grown For | Large, spear-shaped leaves with blushing red undersides |
Foliage Type | Spear-headed |
Leaf size | 1 feet wide and 2 feet long |
Flowering | Small flowers with cream or yellow stripes. |
Flowering Season | May to July Spring to late-spring |
Availability | Sold through rare and exotic plant sellers |
Toxicity | Toxic to pets and human |
It will retain a healthy stature found only in its natural habitat when provided with optimal indirect lighting, warm temperature, and humidity.
They naturally grow in the forest understory and climb trees.
Therefore, this origin allows it to grow in low-light conditions ideally found in most homes that fail to provide an abundance of bright.
There are around 450 species of Philodendrons, and all of them produce flowers. However, some species are notoriously late in doing so, including P. splendid.
It may take over five years for the plant to mature and begin flowering.
Philodendron Splendid may produce fruit if pollinated, but it may be hard to get this hybrid to bear fruit in an artificial setting.
Where to Buy Philodendron Splendid?
Philodendron plants are easy to buy from online retailers, exotic plant sellers, and a few local nurseries.
You should know that these are not rare plants; hence you can easily find them in multiple online stores.
Philodendron Splendid would typically cost somewhere between $20 and $80.
Otherwise, you can always ask a friend or fellow Philodendron lover to give you healthy cutting for propagation.
Let us look at a few selected sellers specializing in Philodendron Splendid.
Buying Options | Delivery |
---|---|
Etsy | Delivery within 5-6 days |
Aroid Market | Delivery within 1-2 weeks Free shipping for $600 minimum purchase |
Peace, Love, and Happiness | Delivery within 2-3 days |
Carnivero | Delivery within 1-3 days |
Aroid Nursery | Delivery within 1-3 weeks |
Philodendron Splendid- Complete Grow & Care Guide
Philodendron Splendid are some of the easiest houseplants to care for.
In fact, many growers joke that these plants are more challenging to kill than keeping them alive.
Remember, they are native to the rainforests of Ecuador and require similar growing conditions at home.
Let us look at the quick care guide.
Parameter | Ideal Requirements |
---|---|
Sunlight and Location | Bright indirect sunlight Placed east-facing window or 4-5 feet away from the south-facing window |
Watering | Regular watering every 9-10 days in the growing season Every 15-20 days in fall and winter |
Temperature | 18°C to 25°C (64-77°F) |
Humidity | 60% |
Soil | A loose, rich and well-draining soil |
Fertilizer | Feed organic houseplant fertilizer rich in Nitrogen every month in the growing season Cut back on fertilization during dormancy |
Potting and Repotting | Once every year in the spring |
Pruning | Trim old, decayed, and brown leaves Prune only in summer or spring |
Propagation | Stem cutting or air-layering |
Pest and Diseases | Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites and Scale Bacterial Leaf Spot, Bacterial Blight |
Let us delve into the detail.
1. Bright Indirect Sunlight and Warm Location
Philodendrons love warm environments like their natural tropical habitat, where they live under the shadow of tall trees and rocks.
You should try providing a similar lighting condition at home.
Philodendron Splendid is a low to moderate light-loving plant that thrives in bright indirect sunlight for at least 4-6 hours daily.
It does well in a location with a light intensity of 2,500 – 10,000 lux or 250–1,000 foot candles (FC), such as an east or southeast-facing window.
A few hours of early morning sun may do wonders in attaining large, waxy leaves and rich color.
However, avoid excessive direct sunlight as it can quickly burn your plant’s leaves.
Although they survive in low-light conditions, they will fail to attain their natural stature.
Philodendrons survive without light for between 4-20 days, with P. splendid surviving for 12 to 20 days before dying of chlorosis.
Here is how a light-saturated or light-stressed Philodendron Splendid reacts.
Low Light Problems | Light Saturation Problems |
---|---|
It causes stunted, leggy, and dull growth. | It causes a high transpiration rate, and leaves start to curl. |
Leaves appear yellow, disclosed, and smaller in size. | Extreme heat breakdowns the chlorophyll, so the leaves appear pale or bleached. |
Low chlorophyll leads to less pigmented leaves. | Burning of leaf and leaf scorch. |
Tips to Provide Adequate Bright Light
- Keep them in an east-facing window where they can get ample early morning sun.
- Place them at the south-facing window a least 5 feet away to avoid direct sun exposure. Otherwise, drapes or blinds on the window offset the light intensity, especially in high summer.
- The bathroom or kitchen may be ideal if it receives ample indirect sunlight throughout the day.
- Rotate the plant in the exact location every few weeks to achieve even sunlight distribution.
- For scorched leaves, move the plant away from the harsh light source to a shaded location until it revives.
- Otherwise, move the plant indoors under LED grow light for at least 10 hours during fall or winter or when the sunlight is scarce.
Please read our complete guide about Philodendron’s optimal light requirement.
In the case of artificial lighting, always use a full-spectrum grow lamp that offers an even amount of red, blue, and yellow color spectrum ideal for foliage and flower growth.
Here are a few recommendations;
Products | Features |
---|---|
Phlizon Pro 2000W LED | Offers extremely large grow area and immable full spectrum |
Lavish Home | 5 feet tall light with adjustable neck floor lamp |
Abonnylv 60W Led Tri Light | Contains that warm white light(3000k) leds + day light(5000k) leds + red light(660nm) leds + Ir light(730nm) led |
SPIDER FARMER SF2000 LED | Includes high efficiency, full Spectrum and new diode layout |
Led Grow Light | Provides full spectrum with good cooling performance |
2. Regular Watering
Philodendron Splendid is a rainforest plant that requires a fair share of water to produce food and transfer it throughout the plant.
Philodendron Splendid requires water every 7-10 days in the growing season. Let the top half of the soil or the first few inches dry out between watering.
If you are unsure, water your Philodendron every ten days to avoid the risk of overwatering.
Water once every 15-20 days in fall and winter and cut down the watering to 30-40% to allow the dormant plant to rest.
Tips to Water Philodendron Splendid
- Allow the potting mix to dry about 50% or the 2-3 inches of topsoil between watering.
- Insert your finger to check the soil moisture. Otherwise, use a soil moisture meter to determine the exact moisture level.
- Anything above ‘6’ indicates excessively moist soil, and fewer than ‘3’ means dry soil.
- Water your plant in the morning and pour it directly over the soil to allow the water to reach the roots.
- Ensure to use distilled or rainwater at all times. Otherwise, let the chlorinated water sit idle for 24 hours before using.
Overwatering may lead to the waterlogging problem, which not only drowns the roots but also encourages fungal growth and root rot.
Beginners are more likely to overwater their Philodendron; therefore, you should use a water scheduling app or soil moisture meter to avoid taking the risk.
The inappropriate watering will invite many small and more significant problems which become prominent with tell-tale signs.
Overwatered Signs | Under-watered Signs |
---|---|
Dark-colored soil | Light greyish soil |
Browning or darkening leaves | Yellowed leaves with a crispy texture |
Lower stem decay | Wilted or curled leaves |
Smelly potting medium | Hard to touch stems |
Solution
- Immediately cut back on watering for an overwatered Philodendron plant and assess the root for rot.
- Prune away dark, mushy, and limp roots and apply some fungicide before repotting in a fresh soil mix.
- Consider deep watering the severely underwatered plant or submerging the pot in a half-filled water container.
- Mist the leaves regularly to boost the moisture and humidity around the plant.
3. Ideal Temperature
Philodendron Splendid prefers temperature on the warmer side. Being a pan-tropical plant, it prefers a preferable warm temperature around the year.
Provide your Philodendron Splendid anywhere between 55-80°F during the day and nothing less than 50°F at night.
A warmth-loving plant will quickly curl under a cold climate or temperature below 50°F.
Therefore, they prefer being grown in USDA zones 10-11 with a minimum temperature of 40°F with longer spring and summer days.
Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures will push back the foliage growth.
Similarly, high temperatures above 90°F can leave the plant high and dry, leading to transpiration (loss of water from the leaves).
Intense damages may include chlorosis, leaf necrosis, ROS accumulation, and cell damage.
Tips to Maintain Ideal Temperature
- Start with keeping them in a warm corner with ample indirect sunlight to maintain a reasonably high temperature, such as the east or south-facing window, door, or patio.
- Place them near the drafts with airflow in summer and near the fireplace or radiators during winter, but strictly avoid keeping them close to the air conditioner or heater.
- Move the plant inside under LED grow light when the temperature drops below 50°F during fall and winter.
- A frost blanket or plastic insulation would work great to preserve the warmth and avoid cold stress.
- Alternatively, you can place the plant over a heating pad to maintain a warm soil temperature.
- Add a pine straw or dried grass layer over the soil to trap the heat.
4. High Humidity Level
Humidity is innate to tropical plants, and it is no different when it comes to Philodendron Splendid.
Your Philodendron Splendid plant requires a relatively high humidity level of 60% or more to keep looking healthy.
Providing high relative humidity helps replicate the super humid environment of their natural habitat.
However, attaining it at home may seem difficult. Therefore, you can resort to using a room humidifier and other reliable methods to boost the humidity.
However, be wary about exponentially rising humidity as it can significantly wet the plant, leading to fungal and bacterial growth.
Similarly, low humidity results in transpiration and chlorosis.
Keep a check on these tell-tale signs.
Too Low Humidity | Too High Humidity |
---|---|
Wilting and shriveled Leaf | Stems and leaves rot |
Yellowing of leaves edges (chlorosis) | Patches of grey mould on the leaves |
Brown leaf tips | Fungal growth |
Leaves may fall in severe conditions | Mold presence in the soil and flower as well. |
Tips to Maintain Ideal Humidity Level
- Group all the houseplants to boost the humidity level naturally.
- Otherwise, growing them in naturally humid areas such as the bathroom or kitchen may also work (ensure the site receives ample indirect sunlight).
- Mist the leaves occasionally during summer or when the temperature soars above 95°F.
- For relatively dry plants, consider placing them on a pebble tray filled with water to notch up the humidity level by 30-40%.
- Consider using a hygrometer to determine the humidity level if you are unsure about your plant’s humidity intake.
Pro Tip: Use a dehumidifier to reduce excess humidity from the air when your plant is exposed to excessively humid conditions, especially if you live near the equatorial line.
5. Well-Draining, Loamy Soil Mix
Philodendron Splendid prefers a typically well-draining soil mix that does not trap in the water.
Using a loamy soil mix rich in organic and inorganic materials help maintain soil aeration and improve drainage, preventing waterlogged problems.
Use a well-draining substrate composed of orchid bark, peat moss or coco coir, perlite, and a fine layer of sterilized compost for your Philodendron Splendid.
Using a 100% sphagnum peat moss mix may also work, but it can make the soil too acidic for the plant.
Philodendron Splendid naturally thrives in the humus-rich soil rich in decaying forest matters, insects, and organisms.
Therefore, using ordinary garden soil is not the solution as it lacks the proper aeration required for the houseplants.
Here is a homemade recipe for Philodendron Splendid.
Recipe #1
- 40% of peat moss or coco coir to add volume
- 30% fine orchid bark and 20% perlite
- Top it with 10% worm casting
If you want a commercial potting mix, consider these three options.
- Philodendron Houseplant Potting Soil
- Sun Bulb 50000 Better Gro Special Orchid Mix
- All Natural Orchid Potting Mix
Remember, Philodendrons require a slightly acidic soil composition (5.0-6.0) to retain most nutrients from the soil.
Therefore, you can add surplus sulfur, organic compost, leaf mold, or some cottonseed meal to attain acidity.
6. Regular Fertilization
Philodendron Splendid is not a compulsive feeder but enjoys regular fertilization, especially to attain large leaves and tall stature.
Fertilizer your Philodendron Splendid every month in the growing season with an organic liquid food slightly rich in nitrogen.
Nitrogen content is ideal for leafy plants, but if you are concerned about nitrogen toxicity, stick to balanced plant food.
Otherwise, you can introduce slow-release granular fertilizer every 2-3 months in the growing season.
However, strictly cut back on fertilizing in fall and winter when the plant is resting to avoid chemical stress.
Similarly, overfeeding the plant will also impact its growth due to excess salt buildup in the soil.
Choose a conservative approach to nutrition as over-fertilizing your Philodendron can lead to root burn from the nutrient build-up.
An inappropriately fertilized Philodendron is very quick to show problems.
Under-fertilization | Over-fertilization |
---|---|
Faint and pale foliage | Leaves start turning brown |
Frail stem | Withering of lower leaves |
Yellowing of leaves | Stem starts turning yellow and the leaves start wilting |
Falling off of leaves | Fertilizer crusts and salt buildup on the soil surface and roots |
Slow plant growth or stunted growth | Leaf tips and margins start to turn brown |
You are more likely to overfertilize your Philodendron Splendid. Here is how you can treat it.
How to Treat Overfertilized Plant?
- Run the pot under the water to flush out excess salts. Let it dry out and repeat the process 2-3 times.
- Cut back on fertilization until the plant condition improves.
- Switch to mild plant food or homemade organic fertilizer to avoid the risk of salt buildup.
- Change the soil that feels dry or compact.
Here are a few organic fertilizer recommendations.
- NPK Fertiliser by Aquatic Arts
- Joyful Dirt Premium Concentrated All-Purpose
- Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food
- Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food Plus
Tips to Apply Fertilizer Correctly
- Dilute the liquid solution to a half-strength by mixing it with water.
- Apply the fertilizer by directly pouring it onto the soil, but keep it a few inches away from the plant roots.
- In the case of fine food, spread the food pellets over the soil and water it thoroughly.
7. Repotting Overgrown Philodendron
Repot your Philodendron Splendid when it has overgrown its container or needs a fresh soil mix.
Ideally, the plant would get double its size yearly, requiring yearly repotting in spring in a container at least 1-2″ bigger than the previous one.
Repotting them yearly also helps provide it with a fresh soil mix and a nice texture.
Otherwise, a severely root-bound Philodendron will begin showing signs of problems, including light-colored and compact soil, yellowing and drooping foliage, poor water drainage, and slowed growth.
Steps to Repot Philodendron Splendid
Here is a step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Choose an Ideal Container
Ideally, Philodendron Splendid grows in any container, but clay and terracotta pots may help expel excess moisture.
You can also use plastic pots with multiple drainage holes to ensure proper drainage.
Here are a few recommendations.
Container | Specification |
---|---|
Classic Planter, 8" (Plastic) | They are durable and lightweight. The drainage holes lie at the bottom |
LE TAUCI Ceramic Plant Pots (Ceramic) | 4+5+6 inch, Set of 3, Planters with holes in the bottom |
Plastic Planter, HOMENOTE (Plastic) | Comes in five different sizes 7/6/5.5/4.8/4.5 Inch |
Step 2: Choose Soil Mix and Transplant
- Choose the correct potting mix with appropriate drainage and aeration.
- Water your plant a few hours before repotting to let it easily slide out.
- Tip the pot on its side and grab the plant out using lower stems.
- Wash the root to check for signs of root rot. Prune the infected parts and apply some fungicide.
- Fill the new container to 2/3 level and slide the plant inside with roots facing down.
- Fill the rest of the pot with the soil mix but leave about one inch of space at the top.
- Water it thoroughly and let it sit in the exact location.
Note: The plant may give away some leaves after transplanting. Do not worry, as it will soon revive.
8. Regular Pruning
Pruning refers to trimming down the plant to maintain its size or eliminate old and decayed growth.
Overall, your Philodendron Splendid would require regular pruning in spring and summer to remove spent vegetation.
- Start with removing brown, decayed, and old leaves to redirect the plant’s energy towards healthy growth.
- Prune a few inches from the ends of stems above a node to encourage new growth and existing plant to maintain their size.
- Remove the leggy growth with fewer or sick-looking leaves.
Growth Rate of Philodendron Splendid
Philodendron Splendid is known for its rapid growth and impressive height.
A mature Philodendron Splendid would reach four to six feet in height, while those grown in their natural setting may reach up to 10 feet.
However, what it does not achieve in its length will compensate for its leaves and broader growth.
You should provide enough room to grow as the large leaves span two feet in length and one foot wide.
The leaves are remarkably waxy and green with a purplish tone and reddish undersides.
The leaves are big, bold, and velvety with heart-shaped designs and beautiful cream-colored veins. It also helps cleanse indoor air, trap dust, and release oxygen.
Almost all the growth occurs in spring and summer, requiring optimal care and regular plant food for an added boost.
However, pay special attention in fall and winter when the plant goes into dormancy.
When grown in the right conditions, the mature Philodendron will also produce rich-looking blossoms and fruits.
Generally, the Philodendron flowers after the plant become mature, around 10 to 15 years, where it will bloom for about two days every summer.
Expect a porous spadix under a white or red softy spathe that gives a solid sweet odor.
If you help your Philodendron flower with pollination, you may also see fruit with seeds.
However, it is unlikely for the plant to self-pollinate, requiring hand pollination or cross-pollination.
You may be interested in reading about buying and growing Philodendron from Seeds.
Toxicity of Philodendron Splendid
Philodendron plants are toxic to humans and pets, and your Philodendron Splendid is no different.
The plant produces insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which cause raphide formation when ingested.
Therefore, you should keep your dog, cat, and kids away from the plant.
Accidentally ingesting the plant leaves, residual water, or sap may cause a burning sensation around the mouth, nausea, and vomiting.
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) lists plants as one of the toxic houseplants for pets.
Severe poisoning may also cause difficulty swallowing, drooling, dilated pupils, cardiac issues, and immediate medical care.
Get in touch with the American Association of Poison Control Center at (800) 222-1222 if you suspect poisoning in your kid and ASPCA Poison Center at (800) 426-4435 for pet poisoning.
Propagating Philodendron Splendid
Propagating Philodendron Splendid is a great way to obtain multiple healthy plants without spending too much.
They can easily be propagated through stem cutting and air layering at home.
However, beware of the optimal time to propagate this plant to get the best results, especially spring or summer.
Materials Required for Propagation
Here is the list of materials required.
Materials Required | Purpose |
---|---|
Gardening Knife | For stem cutting |
Gardening Gloves | For safety |
Potting Mix | Potting Medium |
Perlite | For extra drainage |
Rooting Hormone | For best growth |
Terracotta Pot with a Drainage Hole | Well draining organic pottig mix |
Humidifier | To maintain the humidity |
1. Propagating via Stem Cutting
Each stem cutting can produce a new, healthy plant given the correct growing condition.
Here is the step-by-step guide to propagating via stem cutting.
Step 2: Cut the Stem
- Determine the healthy stem with bushier foliage growth.
- Cut the stem just below the node. Ensure the cutting has 2-3 nodes and 1-2 leaves.
- Otherwise, cut the oversized stem and distribute the stand into multiple cuttings measuring 3-4 inches.
- Leave it aside to let the cut end produce callous, which helps with regrowth.
Step 3: Choose Soil or Water Medium
Here is how to go ahead with each medium.
For water propagation
- You would require to fill a glass with clean, tepid water.
- Add a few drops of rooting hormone to boost the rooting process.
- Submerge the stem with leaves hanging outside.
- Leave it in a warm place with indirect sunlight and change the water every 4-5 days.
For soil propagation
- Prepare an ideal starter by mixing coco coir, perlite, and vermiculite in a 2-3″ pot.
- Apply some rooting hormone and fungicide to the cut end.
- Slide the stem into the soil and mix with leaves hanging outside.
- Moisten the soil by watering it and setting it aside in a warm location (Around 70-75°F) with ample indirect sunlight.
In both cases, the stem cutting should produce feeder roots within a few weeks.
Once the root grows to one inch long, you can remove it from the current medium and grow it in a container with the ideal potting mix.
2. Propagating via Air Layering
Alternatively, you can propagate your Philodendron Splendid via the air layering method.
Although it is rarely carried out due to unfamiliarity with the process, it often offers successful results.
It involves attaching the cutting to its source with a layer of peat moss to induce new growth.
Here is the step-by-step guide.
- Cut midway through a stem at an angle of 45°.
- Apply some sphagnum peat moss on the cut and wrap the area with a plastic (bottle or bag) using a rope to keep it in place.
- Let it rest, and you will see new growth in two weeks. Let it sit for a while until the recent development becomes more prominent.
- Next, detach the growth from the source plant and grow it in a container with the appropriate potting mix.
Common Problems in Philodendron Splendid
As most growers say, Philodendron is more challenging to kill than keeping them alive. Despite that, your plant is prone to many problems innate to houseplants.
Different plant pests, diseases, and problems may affect your plant when grown indoors.
Here is the list of problems that you may encounter.
1. Common Plant Pests
Philodendron Splendid grown in excess humidity and moisture or around the infected plant may become prone to insect attacks.
Look out for common plant pests like aphids, scales, and mealybugs.
Aphids
Aphids are common sap-sucking insects that infest most houseplants to draw out juices from the leaves.
Look for tiny green, yellow, light brown, and red insects on the undersides of the leaves.
Brown blotches on the leaves are another indication of aphid infection.
Scales
Scaly insects are tiny pests that infest leaves for their sap. Their shell-like body keeps them protected from harm.
Look out for yellow or rust-colored spots on the leaves and honey-like substances dripping on the stem.
Mealybugs
They are tiny, oval-shaped insects in a white or off-white coat that mainly infect plant roots and foliage.
They suck the sap from the leaves. Check for honeydew-like substance on the undersides of leaves.
Treatment for Pest Infestation
- Start pruning badly affected plant portions and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Applying horticultural oil or isopropyl alcohol may also help remove pests and their eggs.
- You can resort to organic pesticides and repeat the treatment every 3-5 days until the plant seems to revive. You can rub or directly spray the solution.
- Handpick visible pests from the plant and drop them in a soapy water solution.
- As a last resort, apply pyrethrin spray to remove all pests effectively.
Read more: How to Use Neem Oil on Indoor Plants?
Preventive Measures
- Inspect and quarantine the infected plants before adding them back to the collection.
- Beware of high nitrogen fertilizer that may likely invite different pests.
- Wash your plant with a soapy water solution or rubbing alcohol once every month in the growing season.
- Lay out yellow sticky traps around the plant to capture crawling and flying pests.
Related article: How to Identify Insect Eggs on Leaves and Treat Pest Infestation?
2. Horticultural Diseases
The horticultural disease is common with Philodendron Splendid suffering from excess humidity and waterlogged problem, leading to fungal and bacterial growth.
The fungal may cause 85% of plant diseases in all houseplants.
Here are some of the common diseases found in Philodendron.
Disease | Problems |
---|---|
Root rot | Drooping and rapidly yellowing leaves, stunted growth and a rotten brown base is the primary sign of possible root rot. Brown and mushy texture on the root is another sign. |
Rust Spots | Tiny specks or spots on leaves that range in color from orange to rusty-brown, brownish-yellow, purple and red. |
Fungal Infection | A fungus that invites a range of plant diseases; mildew, fusarium wilt, rhizoctonia rot, etc. It may cause plant stress, stunted growth, and drooping leaves. |
Bacterial Blight | It is caused by the pathogen Xanthomonas campestris pv. Dieffenbachiae. It forms transparent spots on leaf edges that develop brown with tan or yellow halos. |
Algal Leaf Spot | It is a foliar disease common with the plant suffering from high humid condition. It is caused by parasitic alga called Cephaleuros Virscens. |
Treatment of Plant Diseases
- Start with quarantining the plant and inspecting for the severity of the problem.
- Slide out the plant to check for root rot indicated by black, mushy, and smelly roots.
- Trim the roots to salvage the plant; otherwise, dispose of the plant that may look hard to save.
- Apply fungicide to cut ends before repotting it in fresh potting soil.
- Fungicides like Medallion (fludioxonil) and Prostar (flutolanil) effectively treat various fungal infections.
- Otherwise, use Agrimycin for bacterial disease and Phytophthora and Pythium with Dimethomorph and phosphorous acid.
Preventive Measures
- Avoid keeping your plant in high humid areas and strictly avoid overwatering.
- Always use sterilized compost for potting mix.
- Avoid misting the leaves in the evening and winter.
- Add a room humidifier to maintain an adequate humidity level at all times.
3. Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing of leaves is a significant concern for Philodendron Splendid lovers, where you will often find discolored leaves.
While some yellowing is natural at the bottom of the plant as it begins to shade old leaves, seeing yellowing frequently may be a concern.
Some of the common reasons are as follows:
- Moisture, temperature, direct sunlight, and pests are a few causes of yellowing.
- A plant suffering from a wet condition or poor drainage may witness frequent yellowing due to a lack of oxygen reaching the roots.
- Similarly, direct sunlight and lack of humidity may lead to chlorosis.
- Pest infestation may cause the appearance of yellow spots on the leaves.
Solutions
- Strictly follow the watering schedule and change soil once a year.
- Place the plant out of direct sunlight under the shade with ample indirect lighting.
- Use a room humidifier to boost the humidity in the air, especially in summer.
- Organic pesticides, neem oil, and soapy water may help rid pests.
4. Curling Leaves
Curling leaves in Philodendron Splendid indicate inappropriate watering, insufficient lighting or humidity, and under or overfertilization.
Leaves are not okay to begin curling; hence, you can assume something is wrong with your Philodendron Splendid.
Some common reasons include:
- Underwatering is the common cause of high and dry plants. Due to transpiration, the leaves will begin to curl.
- Rich water contents like the minerals fluoride and chlorine are another reason for leaf curl.
- Too much or too light can also affect plant leaves.
- Excess temperature and lack of humidity may push the water out of the leaves.
- Improper fertilization can lead to salt buildup in the soil, leading to leaf curl.
Solution
- Let the plant sit on a pebble tray with water to absorb moisture and humidity.
- Always use dechlorinated or rainwater for watering purposes.
- Keep the plant in the east or south-facing window at least 4-5 feet away.
- Frequently mist the plant leaves or use a room humidifier to boost relative humidity levels.
- Fertilize only once a month with mild plant food.
Read more about the causes and treatment of Philodendron leaves curling.
Philodendron Splendid vs. Gloriosum
At a first glimpse, Philodendron Splendid and Gloriosum may look similar.
It is hard to tell them apart thanks to their large, velvety leaves.
If you look closely, Gloriosum boasts thicker leaves with more defined veins.
On the other hand, Gloriosum grows as a crawler, whereas Splendid will climb upwards.
Gloriosum also withstands slightly higher temperatures and may grow more slowly than Splendid.
Read our complete guide about Philodendron Gloriosum
FAQs about Philodendron Splendid
Why is my Philodendron Splendid Leaf Browning?
Browning of leaves, such as brown spots and browning tips, may indicate it is getting too light than it is expected to be.
The chlorosis will lead to the appearance of brown spots and leaf tips.
As a solution, move your plant a few feet away from the window, door, or patio.
Read more about solving browning on Philodendron leaves
Why has my Philodendron Stopped Growing?
The plant may face stunted growth with no new foliage or smaller leaves when recently repotted.
Winter shock may also lead to stunted growth in the winter.
Do not worry; your plant will get in shape with continuous proper care after repotting. Consider moving it inside under the appropriate LED grow light.
Can Philodendron Splendid Climb?
Unlike most Philodendron species, Splendid cannot climb like a vine using a trellis.
However, it is still a climber that will only grow to about five or six feet.
Conclusion
Philodendron Splendid is an exotic tropical plant often sold off as a rare. With more prominent sellers in the market, it is not that difficult to find the plant.
However, please do not treat it like any other houseplant. It requires a conducive growing environment to attain large, waxy leaves.
Follow this guide to keep your Philodendron Splendid happy and problem-free.
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