Wendland Arrowhead Vine
syngonium wendlandii
Also known as: ["Arrowhead Vine","Five-Finger Plant"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen vine with arrowhead-shaped leaves that can develop lobed forms as it matures, native to Central America.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Syngonium |
| Botanical Name: | Syngonium wendlandii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright room with indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–29°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with peat, perlite, and orchid bark.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after rapid growth spurts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light to prevent leaf burn; place in east-facing windows for ideal light; shield from direct summer sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid dark corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a mix designed for aroids; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure bottom drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates slight fluctuations but dislikes drafts or extreme heat.
Avoid placing near vents or windows with extreme temperature shifts; maintain stable room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), monthly in fall, none in winter
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on growth rate.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jar.
Quick Tips
Use stems with at least 2 nodes; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water every few days if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back leggy stems to a node; pinch tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Encourage bushier growth and remove leggy stems; maintain desired shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune in active growth phase; remove dead or damaged leaves; dispose of cuttings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and root space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh potting mix; avoid overwatering post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky components.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in cold; wilting or brown leaf edges in heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate from cold drafts; avoid watering excessively.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown spots; growth may slow.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; provide shade; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; water before feeding; avoid overfertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the calcium oxalate crystals in Syngonium wendlandii, which can cause severe irritation and swelling in the mouth and throat.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Syngonium wendlandii can lead to significant oral and gastrointestinal distress in dogs due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSyngonium wendlandii contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause severe irritation and swelling upon ingestion. The plant's sap may also cause skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Syngonium wendlandii toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Syngonium wendlandii?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week, but adjust based on light and humidity.
Q: Does Syngonium wendlandii need direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers bright, indirect light and can tolerate lower light conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
