Heartleaf Philodendron
philodendron cordatum
Also known as: ["Heart-leaf Philodendron","Sweetheart Plant"]
Overview
A popular trailing or climbing houseplant with glossy, heart-shaped leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","low maintenance","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Philodendron |
| Botanical Name: | Philodendron cordatum |
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":"18–29°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with organic matter (e.g., peat, perlite, orchid bark).
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- 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 heavily overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to lower light in summer to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light; avoid direct sun to prevent scorching; place near east-facing windows for ideal light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
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).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers stable temperatures; avoid drafts.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable conditions; use a thermometer to monitor.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer), with balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
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 (70–75°F), high humidity, indirect light.
Medium
Water or well-draining soil mix (e.g., peat-perlite mix).
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), water or potting mix, plastic bag (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Use nodes for better rooting; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water weekly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut just above a leaf node or bud; angle cuts to promote healing.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy stems, yellow leaves, and overgrown branches to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut at the right angle; remove dead/damaged parts; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches 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 growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure 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 reduce evaporation.
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 compost for fertility; use orchid bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold), wilting or leaf drop (heat), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, and maintain humidity.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop brown edges; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; 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 cordatum. Ingestion can cause severe oral and esophageal irritation, leading to pain and potential respiratory complications due to swelling.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Philodendron cordatum can lead to oral and gastrointestinal irritation due to calcium oxalate crystals. The plant's toxins can cause significant discomfort and may necessitate veterinary intervention if severe symptoms develop.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicPhilodendron cordatum contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause severe irritation and swelling of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract upon ingestion. The plant's toxic compounds interfere with normal physiological processes, leading to discomfort and potential respiratory distress if swelling is significant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Philodendron cordatum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Philodendron cordatum?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 1-2 weeks.
Q: Can Philodendron cordatum grow in low light?
A: Yes, it tolerates low light but thrives in medium to bright indirect light.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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