Heartleaf Philodendron

Heartleaf Philodendron

Philodendron hederaceum

One of the easiest trailing houseplants — glossy heart-shaped leaves on vines that can stretch meters long. Tolerates dim corners other plants refuse, and forgives neglectful watering. Looks spectacular trailing from a high shelf or climbing a moss pole, where leaves grow larger. Often confused with Pothos; philodendron leaves are thinner and more heart-shaped, with a smooth (not ribbed) stem.

Quick Facts

Distribution

Indoor (native to Caribbean & Central America)

Light

Bright indirect light; tolerates medium-low light

Bloom Time

Rarely flowers indoors

Soil

Standard well-draining potting mix

Water

When top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; roughly weekly in summer, every 10–14 days in winter

Toxic to PetsCalcium oxalate crystals — oral irritation, drooling, vomiting

Growing & Cultivation

Propagation

Stem cuttings in water or soil — take a 10 cm section with 3+ leaves, cut just below a node. Roots in 1–2 weeks in water.