The undersides of this philodendron’s leaves glow with a vivid red that contrasts against its dark green topsides. If you are looking for a rare and striking plant, the philodendron subhastatum is a must-have for your collection. This tropical beauty is known for its two-tone foliage and relatively easy care once you understand its needs.
In this guide, you will learn everything about growing and caring for this unique plant. We will cover light, water, soil, and common problems. By the end, you will have the confidence to keep your plant thriving.
Understanding The Philodendron Subhastatum
This plant is often confused with other climbing philodendrons, but its color is unique. The top of the leaf is a deep, rich green, while the underside is a brilliant, almost neon red. It is a hemiepiphyte, meaning it starts on the ground and climbs up trees in the wild.
Because it is a climber, it needs support to reach its full potential. Without a moss pole or trellis, the leaves will stay smaller. With support, the leaves can grow quite large and the red coloration becomes more intense.
Native Habitat And Origin
This species originates from the rainforests of Ecuador and Colombia. In its natural environment, it grows in the understory, receiving dappled sunlight. The red undersides likely help the plant capture more light in the dim forest floor.
Understanding this habitat helps us replicate the conditions at home. It wants humidity and warmth, but not direct scorching sun. It also prefers airy, well-draining soil that mimics the forest debris it grows in.
Key Characteristics To Identify
You can identify this plant by its elongated, heart-shaped leaves. The stems are usually a reddish or maroon color, which adds to the appeal. The contrast between the top and bottom of the leaf is the main selling point for most collectors.
- Leaf Shape: Elongated and pointed, similar to an arrowhead.
- Color: Dark green top, bright red or orange-red bottom.
- Growth Habit: Climbing and vining, not self-heading.
- Stem: Often has a reddish tint.
Optimal Lighting Conditions
Getting the light right is crucial for the philodendron subhastatum. Too much direct sun will burn the leaves. Too little light will cause the red undersides to fade to a dull green.
The goal is to provide bright, indirect light. A spot near an east-facing window is often perfect. A north-facing window might be too dark, while a south or west window needs a sheer curtain.
Signs Of Improper Light
Your plant will tell you if the light is wrong. Pay attention to the leaf color and growth patterns. If the leaves are losing their red color, it is likely not getting enough light.
- Too Much Light: Leaves develop brown, crispy patches or a washed-out look.
- Too Little Light: Leaves become smaller, and the red underside turns pale or green.
- Leggy Growth: The spaces between leaves (internodes) become long and stretched out.
If you notice these signs, move the plant gradually to a new location. Sudden changes can shock the plant. Give it a week to adjust to the new spot before making further changes.
Watering And Humidity Needs
This plant likes to stay evenly moist but never soggy. Overwatering is a common mistake that leads to root rot. You should let the top inch or two of soil dry out between waterings.
Stick your finger into the soil to check moisture. If it feels dry, it is time to water. If it feels damp, wait a few more days. The frequency will change with the seasons and your home’s environment.
Humidity Requirements
As a tropical plant, it appreciates higher humidity levels. Average household humidity is often around 40-50%. This plant prefers 60% or higher. You can increase humidity with a pebble tray or a humidifier.
- Place a layer of pebbles in a tray.
- Add water to the tray, just below the top of the pebbles.
- Set the plant pot on top of the pebbles.
- Refill the tray as the water evaporates.
Grouping plants together can also create a microclimate with higher humidity. This is a simple trick that helps all your tropical plants. Avoid placing it near air vents or radiators, as these dry out the air.
Soil And Potting Mix
The right soil mix is essential for preventing root rot. A chunky, airy mix is best. This allows water to flow through easily while retaining some moisture for the roots.
A standard aroid mix works well. You can buy a pre-made mix or create your own. The goal is to have large particles that create air pockets.
DIY Soil Recipe
Creating your own mix is simple and cost-effective. You can adjust the ingredients based on your home’s humidity. Here is a reliable recipe that works for most growers.
- 1 part potting soil
- 1 part perlite
- 1 part orchid bark
- A handful of horticultural charcoal
Mix all the ingredients together in a large container. Moisten the mix slightly before using it to pot your plant. This helps the roots settle in and reduces transplant shock.
When you repot, choose a pot that is only 1-2 inches larger than the current one. A pot that is too large holds too much water, which can lead to root rot. Always ensure the pot has drainage holes.
Fertilizing Your Plant
Regular feeding during the growing season will keep your philodendron subhastatum healthy. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer.
Do not fertilize in the fall and winter. The plant enters a slower growth phase and does not need extra nutrients. Over-fertilizing can burn the roots and cause leaf tips to turn brown.
Choosing The Right Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio like 20-20-20 is a good choice. You can also use a fertilizer specifically designed for aroids. These often include extra calcium and magnesium, which are beneficial.
Always water your plant before fertilizing. Applying fertilizer to dry soil can damage the roots. If you are unsure, it is better to under-fertilize than to over-fertilize.
Support And Climbing Structure
This is a climbing plant, and it needs support to thrive. In the wild, it grows up trees to reach the canopy. In your home, a moss pole or a trellis will mimic this environment.
Without support, the plant will still grow, but the leaves will be smaller. The internodes will be longer, making the plant look sparse. Providing a pole encourages larger leaves and a fuller appearance.
How To Attach The Plant
You can use soft plant ties or twist ties to attach the stem to the pole. Do not tie it too tightly, as the stem needs room to grow. The aerial roots will eventually attach themselves to the pole.
- Insert the moss pole into the pot, near the base of the plant.
- Gently guide the stem towards the pole.
- Use a soft tie to secure the stem to the pole.
- Keep the moss pole moist to encourage aerial root growth.
If you use a moss pole, keep it damp. This encourages the aerial roots to grow into the moss, providing the plant with water and nutrients. A dry pole is less effective.
Pruning And Propagation
Pruning is not strictly necessary, but it helps control the size of the plant. You can trim back any leggy growth to encourage a bushier appearance. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Propagation is easy and a great way to share your plant. You can propagate in water or directly in soil. The best time to propagate is during the growing season.
Water Propagation Steps
Water propagation is simple and allows you to watch the roots grow. Follow these steps for a high success rate.
- Cut a stem with at least one node and one leaf.
- Place the cutting in a jar of water, ensuring the node is submerged.
- Put the jar in a spot with bright, indirect light.
- Change the water every few days to prevent bacteria.
- Wait for roots to grow to about 2 inches long.
- Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix.
You can also propagate directly in soil. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in moist soil. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide high humidity to help the cutting root.
Common Pests And Problems
Like most houseplants, this philodendron can be susceptible to pests. The most common are spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Regular inspection is the best way to catch an infestation early.
Spider mites are tiny and hard to see. You might notice fine webbing on the undersides of leaves. Mealybugs look like small, white cottony masses. Scale appears as small, brown bumps on the stems and leaves.
Treatment Options
If you find pests, isolate the plant immediately. This prevents them from spreading to your other plants. Wash the leaves with a gentle soap and water solution.
- Insecticidal Soap: Effective against soft-bodied pests like mealybugs.
- Neem Oil: A natural pesticide that works on many pests.
- Rubbing Alcohol: Use a cotton swab to remove visible pests.
Repeat the treatment every few days for a couple of weeks. Pests often lay eggs that are resistant to treatment. Consistency is key to completely eradicating them.
Yellow Leaves And Root Rot
Yellow leaves are a common issue with this plant. It is often a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule.
If the yellowing is accompanied by a mushy stem, root rot is likely. You will need to act quickly to save the plant. Remove the plant from the pot and inspect the roots.
How To Save A Root Rot Plant
Root rot is serious, but it is often treatable if caught early. Follow these steps to give your plant the best chance of survival.
- Remove the plant from its pot.
- Gently shake off the old soil.
- Use sterilized scissors to cut away any black or mushy roots.
- Rinse the healthy roots with clean water.
- Repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
- Water sparingly until the plant shows new growth.
Make sure the new pot has excellent drainage. Consider adding more perlite or bark to the mix to increase aeration. This will help prevent the problem from recurring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Philodendron Subhastatum Rare?
It is considered a rarer philodendron, but it is becoming more available. You might not find it at a big-box store, but it is often sold by specialty nurseries and online plant shops. Prices can vary depending on the size and availability.
Does This Plant Need A Moss Pole?
Yes, it is highly recommended. While it can grow without one, it will not reach its full potential. A moss pole encourages larger leaves and a more impressive display. The aerial roots will use the pole for support.
Why Are The Leaves Turning Brown?
Brown, crispy edges often indicate low humidity or underwatering. It can also be a sign of too much fertilizer. Check the soil moisture and increase humidity around the plant. Trim off the brown edges with clean scissors.
Can I Keep This Plant In A Terrarium?
Young plants can do well in a terrarium due to the high humidity. However, as it grows, it will need more space. You will eventually need to move it to a larger pot with a support structure. A greenhouse cabinet is a great option for this plant.
Is This Plant Toxic To Pets?
Yes, like all philodendrons, it contains calcium oxalate crystals. These are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep the plant out of reach of curious pets. Symptoms include drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Final Care Summary
Caring for the philodendron subhastatum is rewarding. The striking red undersides make it a standout in any collection. With the right conditions, it will grow vigorously and become a focal point.
Remember to provide bright, indirect light and consistent moisture. Use a chunky soil mix and give it something to climb. Monitor for pests and adjust your care as needed. This plant is not difficult if you meet its basic needs.
With a little patience and attention, you will be rewarded with a stunning, healthy plant. The vivid red glow of the leaves is a sight to behold. Enjoy the process of watching your plant thrive and grow.