Philodendron bipinnatifidum tortum, another name for Philodendron tortum, is one of the rarest species in its family. It belongs to the Arum family and is an evergreen plant.
More frequently than not, these plants are grown as houseplants. Although bushes are the most common, they come in various shapes and sizes, including vines and epiphytes.
Philodendron tortum thrives at temperatures ranging from 59-86 degrees Fahrenheit (15-30°C) and 60-80 percent humidity levels. Additionally, the plant thrives in strong indirect sunshine and neutral soil.
The Philodendron tortum, often known as the “tree-loving,” is a low-maintenance, easy-to-care-for plant.
They not only provide a splash of color to your home, but they also have several advantages.
So let’s dive into the article to know more about this unique species of Philodendron!
Table of Contents
Overview of Philodendron tortum
Let’s have a look at a quick overview of the plant.
| Scientific Name | Philodendron Bipinattifidum |
|---|---|
| Native | Brazil |
| USDA | Zone 10a-11 |
| Nature | Tropical |
| Average Height | Up to 6 meters |
| Space | 1 to 1.5 inches |
| Toxicity | Toxic to cats and dogs |
| Light Requirement | Medium, Indirect Light for 6 hours 2-3 Hours of Direct Morning Light |
| Temperature | Between 59 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Watering | 1/2 times a week in Summer Water Sparingly in Winter |
| Humidity | 60-80 Percent |
| Soil Type | Wet, Well-draining, Organic-rich with a pH value between 5-7 |
| Fertilization Requirement | Once a week in Growing Season 7-9-5 N-P-K fertilizer |
| Pruning Requirement | Occasional Pruning |
| Repotting | Early Spring 1-2 inches larger than the root ball |
| Pot | Glazed ceramic pot, Plastic pot, or Hanging basket |
| Propagation | Stem-Cutting Air-Layering |
| Pests/Diseases | Aphids, Mealy bugs, Spider mites, Erwinia Blight Disease |
| Blooms | Non-Flowering Plant |
| Foliage | Green in hue and have a glossy, smooth feel |
Philodendron tortum: Where to Buy, Guide and Care Tips
If you’re a big fan of Philodendron tortum and want to purchase it to add a splash of green in your space, you’ll find the complete guide to buy, and take care of your plant!
Where to Buy Philodendron tortum?
Although Philodendron tortum is considered a rare aroid, there are various platforms from where you can buy and add this rare plant into their greeny collection.
Below is a list of shops that I’ve found for you to grab this rare gem:
| Places to Buy | Delivery Service |
|---|---|
| Etsy | Your product will likely arrive within 7-10 days |
| Grow Jungle | Shipping on each Monday only |
| Plant Circle | For Germany 1-3 days For all other countries delivery time can range from 3-10 days. |
| Tropics @Home | 10-14 days |
| Happy Houseplants | 7-10 working days Across the UK using Royal Mail and Parcel Force |
Plant Guide and Care Tips for Philodendron tortum
As Philodendron tortum is a low-maintenance plant, it is ideal for beginners.
Similarly, these plants don’t require much work to stay alive; virtually anyone can care for them and maintain them alive.
All home plant fans adore it because of its low-maintenance qualities.
Are you curious about Philodendron Bipennifolium? Here is quick care guide for Philodendron Bipennifolium.
Let’s have a quick look at the user guide and care tips for Philodendron tortum!
1. Sunlight and Location
For optimal results, position your Philodendron tortum in a location that receives medium, indirect light.
The Philodendron tortum enjoys light and airy environments. As a result, the location in which they are housed is crucial.
Philodendron tortum needs at least 6 hours of Sunlight per day for optimal growth.
You can keep your Philodendron tortum near the window, but not too close, so it doesn’t get direct sunlight.
Philodendron is a shade plant, as it grows naturally in tropical rainforests in the shade of large plants and trees.
If it is too shady, it can become weak. The plant will be compact in a moderately well-lit area and will not become spindly.
Do not place it in a sunny location, as the leaves may burn and develop brown spots.
If direct sunlight is intense for several hours, the damage can be irreversible and the leaves of the Tortum can be burned.
Signs of Light Deprived
- Because insufficient light exposure prevents chlorophyll from performing at its best, leaves will gradually lose their dark hue and become lighter over time.
- Similarly, the plant’s development will be slowed by a lack of light.
- Internodes that are longer than typical suggest a shortage of light.
- Other symptoms that your plants aren’t getting enough light are thin leaves and particularly tiny leaves.
- Stems and leaves will tilt as much as possible toward the light, indicating that a region of the plant is receiving insufficient light.
Proper Light Maintaining Tips
- Use shade curtains during high-light and high-temperature months.
- Keep an LED grow light or, for a less expensive option, a full-spectrum light bulb inserted into a nearby lamp to keep the leaves healthy.
- 2-3 Hours of direct morning Sun is best for the plant.
- Turn the pot regularly for the even growth of the stem towards the light source.
- Similarly, make sure your plants aren’t in the same fire hazard as fireplaces, radiators, ovens, and other heat sources.
Note: It is typical for older leaves to become yellow and fall, making space for the young ones; nothing is alarming about that.
2. Watering Requirements
The philodendron tortum prefers wet, well-drained soil, emphasizing the latter—only enough water to keep the top inch (3cm) of soil moist.
In the spring and summer, water 1-2 times a week using a water/fertilizer solution, then in the autumn and winter, reduce back your watering level and water sparingly.
However, if you reside in a hot, humid, or tropical climate, your plant will require extra watering due to increased evaporation.
Similarly, don’t allow the soil to dry up in between waterings. When the soil dries, it generates a “blanket effect,” trapping moisture beneath the surface and preventing much-needed oxygen from reaching the roots.
Overwatered Signs
- Lower leaves will be yellow.
- Roots will decay or be stunted, and there will be no new growth.
- The young leaves will darken.
- The soil will become green (algae).
Underwatered Signs
- Wilting is a classic indicator of a plant that isn’t getting enough water.
- A plant’s turgor, or stiffness in cells and tissues, is lost when it receives little water.
- The tips and margins of leaves dry up and become brown when a plant doesn’t get enough water.
- Likewise, if the plant’s water supply is temporarily cut off, the plant’s growth may decelerate for a while.
Proper Watering Tips
- Make a proper watering schedule so that you wouldn’t forget to water your tortum.
- To enhance drainage, temporarily cease watering your plant.
- Water when the top 2inches of the soil is dry.
- Consider permanently relocating your plant to a bright location or allowing it to sit in the sun for a few hours near a window if it is currently in a gloomy location.
- If the potting mix is wet, take it out of the container in one piece and place it on a layer of newspaper or other absorbent material.
- Similarly, make sure your plant is in a container with at least one drainage hole.
Are you looking for an aesthetic watering pot to complement your plants? Click here to see 10 cute mini water cans for indoor plant!
3. Ideal Temperature
The average temperature in Manaus, Brazil, the native place of the Philodendron tortum, does not fall below 24 °C/75 °F.
Unless you reside in a tropical environment, this species is best kept indoors, safe during the hottest months of the year.
Your room temperature should be between 15-30 degree Celsius (59-86 °F).
Philodendron tortum falls sick and dies at extremely cold temperatures.
Your Philodendron tortum should be alright if the temperature in your home is comfortable. Just keep it away from drafty windows and air conditioning equipment.
Temperatures below 15 °C/59 °F are unlikely to suit it. As a result, Philodendron tortum falls sick and dies at extremely cold temperatures.
Tips to Maintain Proper temperature
- Shade curtains should be used during high-light and high-temperature months.
- Use an LED grow light or a full-spectrum light bulb put into a neighboring lamp to keep the leaves healthy.
- A Frost blanket can be used as a cover for your plant to prevent cold.
- Similarly, keep your plants away from fires, radiators, ovens, and other heat sources.
4. High Humidity
Plants lose water via transpiration regularly; the water vapor that surrounds them is humidity.
Philodendron tortum can withstand humidity levels of 60-80 percent on average.
Please keep in mind that raising the humidity to 70% or higher encourages the formation of aerial roots, which gives your Philodendron tortum a lanky appearance.
Similarly, to increase the humidity level for your Philodendron tortum, you can take the following measures:
- Grouping: Group your plants to boost the humidity in your home to benefit your Philodendron tortum. By doing so, you’ll be able to build a tiny habitat in which plants may share their humidity resources. When plants are grouped, the transpiration rate rises, causing the humidity in the area around the grouped plants to rise fast. However, this method could be an invitation for pests and diseases.
- Humidifier: One of the nicest things you can do for your house/indoor plants is get a humidifier. By increasing air humidity, you’re assisting your plants in retaining more moisture, which is helpful to their growth.
- Pebble Tray: Purchase a shallow tray, add pebbles, and fill it with water to make the pebble tray. Place your Philodendron tortum’s pot on the pebble tray so that the water from the tray saturates the air surrounding your plant as it evaporates.
- Misting: Misting is another simple method to raise humidity. The action of misting plants with a thin water mist enhances the humidity surrounding them, but it is only brief.
5. Proper Soil Mix
The pH of the soil should be between 5-7 with a wet, well-draining, organic-rich aroid potting mix.
One of the most common mixtures suitable for Philodendron tortum is:
- Two parts of Coco Coir
- Two parts Orchid Barks
- Perlite (1.5 parts)
- 0.5 part of Sphagnum Moss
- Activated Charcoal (1.5 parts)
- 1 Part Worm Castings
The potting mix is the cornerstone for your plant’s existence, and the key to getting it proportionate is balancing the quantity of moisture-retaining and moisture-draining ingredients.
Sphagnum moss and coco coir help plants retain moisture while providing appropriate drainage.
Similarly, Perlite and orchid bark help with drainage (and allow roots to establish attachments).
At the same time, activated Charcoal is supposed to keep pests at bay, eliminate pollutants from the soil, and prevent mold growth.
In addition, worm castings (sometimes known as worm excrement) are organic fertilizers.
6. Fertilizering Philodendron tortum
As potted houseplants are kept in the same soil mix for lengthy periods, they can quickly exhaust their nutrition supply.
As a result, fertilizing your Philodendron tortum is a great idea.
You may apply a variety of fertilizers to your plant. We propose using Dyna-Gro, which is a 7-9-5 NPK formula. This fertilizer gives your plant all 16 key nutrients it requires to thrive.
Similarly, because the Dyna-Gro doesn’t include urea and has low nitrogen concentrations, it won’t change the pH of your potting soil.
Most plant care manuals recommend fertilizing your Philodendron tortum once a month, at the very least. However, we urge that you offer your plant a steady supply of nutrients in this guide.
Apply fertilizer to your Philodendron every time you water it to achieve nutrition.
For example, throughout the summer and spring, you may dilute a quarter teaspoon of Dyna-Gro in a gallon of water and use it to water your plant once a week.
Can I use organic fertilizer?
You can use organic fertilizer for your tortum.
However, organic fertilizers take longer to break down because bacteria and microorganisms must degrade the organic material to absorb the nutrients quickly.
If you live in an area where you can take your houseplants outside, Alaska fish emulsion is a must-have since it’s high in nitrogen and promotes healthy leaf development.
Kelp and seaweed extract, worm tea, and compost tea are all-natural fertilizers to consider.
You don’t need to water or fertilize it during dormancy time.
This plant will fall into dormancy in the winter and slumber for weeks before beginning its regeneration in the spring.
The plant requires very little attention during this stage, and it is better to let it alone.
7. Growth Habits
While indoors, individual leaves (the sword-like branches) may grow up to 2-3 inches (5-8cm) in length, and the Philodendron tortum can grow up to 6 feet tall (1.8m).
Similarly, they may grow up to 19 feet tall in the wild, dwarfing their youthful form (6m).
Foliage
Philodendron tortum may reach a height of around 6 meters. They have skeleton-like leaves that are narrow and thin.
The leaves are green in hue and have a glossy, smooth feel. The leaves are long and thin, with roughly 1-1.5 inch gaps between them.
Similarly, tortum is an evergreen plant. The term “evergreen” refers to plants that remain green throughout the year for as long as they live.
Seasonal changes do not influence the plant’s form, growth, or color.
8. Pests in Philodendron tortum
When it comes to pests and diseases, the Philodendron tortum is a tough plant.
The top suspects to keep an eye on are: Aphids, Mealybugs, Thrips, and Spider mites.
- Mealy Bugs: The bugs drain the sap from the leaves, causing them to droop and turn brown.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are rounded-shaped black or red mites that feed on the sap on the underside of the leaves. Look for silky web under the leaves to detect an infestation, leaf drooping, and curling.
- Aphids: These insects are cricket-like organisms with rear legs that suck sap from plant leaves and stems, causing your plant to wilt and die as the infestation spreads.
- Scales: They are a type of waxy pest that lives on plants. On the leaves, yellow or rust-colored patches may appear, and the sap will begin to dry up.
Solutions:
- Spray the plant with a mixture of 1 cup rubbing alcohol, a few drops of Dawn dish detergent, and 1 quart (32oz) of water. It will aid in the control of Mealybugs.
- Similarly, dab gently with a facial-quality sponge or cotton swab bathed in rubbing alcohol to remove scale off houseplants.
- You can also spray neem oil, insecticidal soaps, and horticultural oils on the plants.
- You can remove the insect lumps with tweezers or a Q-tip soaked in rubbing alcohol.
- Spider mites may be removed using a powerful water jet.
- Pruning and removing affected branches, twigs, and leaves is essential.
- In the meantime, keep your plant away from other plants in the region to avoid it spreading.
Preventive Measures:
- Reduce the amount of food and water you give the plant. Also, be sure to wipe the leaves down regularly.
- Don’t fertilize your plants excessively. Instead, inspect your plants for pests regularly.
- At regular intervals, water the paths and other dusty sections of the plants.
- Make careful to clean and sanitize your tools before cutting your plants.
9. Protection from Diseases Infestation
These plants are susceptible to illness. In addition, numerous bacteria can evade the plant and kill it.
Examining the leaves for signs of bacterial infection includes browning at the margins, patches on the leaves, leaf blights, and tip burns.
Similarly, if your plant is affected, you’ll need to keep it separate from the others and remove the diseased leaf.
Erwinia Blight Disease is caused by Erwinia amylovora, a devastating, highly contagious, and ubiquitous illness.
Thus, it is a dangerous bacterial illness that starts in the soil and spreads to the stems and leaves within days.
Treatment
- Cut sick leaves
- Replace the potting mix
- Inspect the roots for root rot.
Magnesium Deficiency could also be an inviting disease.
Use magnesium leaf spray for example Epsom salt. For the soil, calcium-magnesium works wonders.
These treatments are best during autumn and winter.
Rotten roots will appear dark, mushy, and have a foul odor.
Preventive Measures
- Keep an eye out for yellowing or wilting leaves as the first symptom of Erwinia blight. Such issues might indicate that your Philodendron tortum is overwatered.
- Trimming and removal of any diseased stems or branches on a regular basis
10. Propagation Methods
When you have a mature Philodendron tortum, you won’t need to acquire another one unless you want more of the same plant.
The stem cuttings or air-layering are simple ways to cultivate the Philodendron tortum.
Similarly, to improve your chances of growing Philodendron tortum successfully after propagation, start the procedure in the early spring when your plant’s growth cycle begins.
Stem Cutting Method
- Choose a stem with 2-3 nodes that is healthy (this will come from the main stem). The small crossings with aerial roots that crawl up to the leaf are nodes.
- Cut the stem just below the nodes using a clean pair of pruning scissors.
- Make a tiny container with damp sphagnum moss and Perlite (50-50). The moss should be moist but not dripping wet.
- Dip the newly cut stem/aerial roots into a rooting hormone powder or solution.
- Plant the stem in your ready-to-use potting soil (2-3 inches into the mix). The nodes should be submerged in the mix since the roots will grow.
- Then, fill the pot with the spag moss and perlite mixture.
- Place in a warm place with plenty of indirect light.
- Make sure the moss is maintained wet by watering it.
Note: The tortum tends to establish roots fast. Within 2-3 weeks, you should start to see some roots emerge.
You may transplant it to a larger container with a richer potting mix after the roots are roughly 1 inch (3cm) long.
Air-Layering Method
The air layering approach is effective for mature, well-established Philodendron tortum that are already crawling up a pole or stake.
- Look for some older, well-established aerial roots emerging from a strong node.
- Wrap some damp sphagnum moss over the healthy node, including the roots and pole—this aids in supporting thinner stems.
- Wrap moss completely around the node with a clear plastic bag or press-and-seal food wrap. However, be careful you don’t get any leaves caught in this wrap.
- Leave the seal’s top and bottom open because new roots like to descend, allowing them to do so without bunching.
An example of Propagating plant from Air Layering (Source: Wikimedia Commons) - Spray the sphagnum moss well via the open-top in the plastic bag every day. Spraying prevents the moss from drying out and compacting.
- Allow two to three weeks for new roots to emerge.
- Care, remove the plastic wrap and some moss around your new roots. Be sure the roots are in good shape!
- It would be best to use clean scissors to cut the stem immediately below the new roots.
- In a thick potting mix, place the stem (see above). Then, as usual, take care of it.
11. Potting and Repotting
Use big pots from the start to avoid the need for regular Repotting.
If you’ve planted your Philodendron in a tiny container, however, repotting is necessary because this plant grows swiftly.
Select a glazed ceramic pot, plastic pot, or hanging basket with a diameter 1 to 2 inches larger than the root ball of your plant.
Philodendron tortum is a quick grower and you should always watch out for the roots.
If the roots are growing out of the pot then it is clearly a sign that your tortum needs a transplant to a bigger pot.
Philodendron tortum should be repotted in the early spring once the plant has emerged from dormancy.
Here is a step by step method to repot your Tortum:
- First, remove the Philodendron tortum from its former pot and brush away any extra soil from the roots.
- Choose a glazed ceramic pot, plastic pot, or hanging basket with a diameter of 1 to 2 inches greater than your plant’s root ball.
- Then, carefully put your Philodendron into the new suitable pot.
- Finally, continue watering and fertilizing as mentioned above.
Note: Your plant will benefit from repotting since it will have more room to flourish. In most cases, the outcome is a larger and healthier plant.
12. Pruning Requirements
As previously noted, the Philodendron Tortum is a fast-growing plant with evergreen features.
If the plant’s leaves begin to overflow or take up too much space, you must clip them occasionally.
Trimming the plant gives it a cleaner and more well-groomed appearance.
Pruning the Tortum is recommended after dormancy in the early spring.
Things to keep in mind before pruning
- Know when it’s time to prune. Pruning should not be done in the late summer or fall.
- Know where to make your cuts. Always cut down to the soil line or just above a developing point (branch or bud).
- Never leave a stub of a stem or branch.
- Thirdly, also get rid of any troublesome branches.
- Likewise, dense growth should be thinned down. You may increase the general health of your plant by thinning down thick growth and allowing more light, rain, and air to penetrate.
- In addition, prune your plant frequently. During pruning, you should just remove 30% of the plant.
13. Toxicity of Philodendron tortum
When consumed, the sap of Philodendron tortum includes calcium oxalate crystals, rendering the plant poisonous.
When you come into contact with a component of the plant, these particles irritate your skin.
According to ASPCA, Philodendron tortum is toxic to both dogs and cats.
As a result, be sure to keep your plant out of the reach of youngsters and pets.
To guarantee that access to the plant is managed, more restricted locations, such as bedrooms, are more suited.
For pets, you immediately need to consult a local veteran or Call the APCC at (888) 426-4435.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Philodendron tortum have Yellow Leaves?
Yellowing leaves can be caused by various factors, including magnesium shortage and pests, but the most common reason is root rot, which is caused by overwatering.
Why does my Philodendron Tortum have Brown Patches on Leaves?
Brown areas indicate that your plant has been exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period.
A few hours are acceptable, but an entire day is not. Scorch markings are the brown spots.
Does the Philodendron Tortum Climb?
The Philodendron tortum is a climbing plant, and it will benefit from a pole or stake to keep it upright.
A pole can support the tree’s limbs to become thicker, keeping the tree from drooping.
Conclusion
Finally, Philodendron tortum plants are the greatest choice for everyone who wants to begin maintaining plants in their homes.
The plant is ideal for beginners since it requires little maintenance and can be kept alive with little effort.
In addition, it offers a touch of freshness to whatever location it’s kept in and has lovely leaves that drape the floor or anything else it’s placed on.
