Hairy Philodendron
philodendron squamiferum
Also known as: ["Hairy Philodendron","Velvet Philodendron"]
Overview
A tropical aroid with velvety, heart-shaped leaves and distinctive fuzzy stems.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Philodendron |
| Botanical Name: | Philodendron squamiferum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a warm, humid room with bright, filtered light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, airy mix like peat-based with perlite or orchid bark.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- 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; adjust to avoid direct sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; place near east-facing windows for ideal conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; water less in dormant periods.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure pot has drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with mulch occasionally.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates slight fluctuations but dislikes drafts or extreme heat/cold.
Avoid placing near vents or windows with extreme temperature shifts; maintain stable room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer) with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with aerial roots or nodes; water or soil propagation both effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, remove lower leaves, apply hormone (optional), plant in medium, maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss, or water propagation in distilled water.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use stems with aerial roots for higher success; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut just above a leaf node or aerial root to promote new growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy stems, yellow leaves, and encourage bushier growth; maintain aesthetic shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, cut at correct angle, remove damaged leaves, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
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; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter or low-light conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
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 pests/diseases.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot, insulate from drafts, and avoid watering excessively.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown spots; growth may slow.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and water more frequently without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
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 Philodendron squamiferum. Ingestion can cause severe oral and gastrointestinal irritation, with potential for significant swelling that may obstruct the airway.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Philodendron squamiferum by dogs can lead to oral irritation, excessive drooling, and gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. Severe cases may involve swelling of the throat, leading to breathing difficulties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicPhilodendron squamiferum contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause severe irritation and swelling of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract upon ingestion. The plant's sap may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Philodendron squamiferum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Philodendron squamiferum?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7-10 days.
Q: Does Philodendron squamiferum require bright light?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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