Black Gold Philodendron
philodendron melanochrysum
Also known as: ["Philodendron black gold","Black gold Philodendron"]
Overview
A tropical aroid with striking dark green, velvety leaves and prominent golden veins, native to the rainforests of Colombia.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Philodendron |
| Botanical Name: | Philodendron melanochrysum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a humid environment with bright, filtered light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–29°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity levels
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, airy mix with peat, perlite, and orchid bark.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control size and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to lower light in winter to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to brighter light gradually; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn; place in east or north-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix with added perlite or orchid bark
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers stable temperatures; avoid drafts or sudden fluctuations.
Avoid placing near air vents; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden cold snaps.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least one node; air layering for larger plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Place 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), and indirect light.
Medium
Moss, perlite, or a mix of peat and sand; keep moist but not waterlogged.
Hormone
Rooting hormone powder or gel recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or aerial root; trim yellow or damaged leaves at the base.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy stems, yellow leaves, and overgrown vines to encourage bushier growth and maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged foliage; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before the main growing season.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim root bound areas; replace with fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root health; trim if necessary; use fresh soil; ensure drainage holes; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water until excess drains from the pot; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 14–21 days in fall/winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Move plant away from cold drafts; use a space heater if needed; cover roots with mulch for insulation.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown spots; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; provide shade during peak heat; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (20-20-20) 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 melanochrysum. Ingestion can cause severe oral and esophageal irritation, potentially leading to respiratory distress if swelling obstructs the airway.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Philodendron melanochrysum can lead to significant oral and gastrointestinal irritation due to calcium oxalate crystals. The crystals cause mechanical damage to mucous membranes, leading to pain and inflammation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicPhilodendron melanochrysum contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause severe irritation and swelling of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract upon ingestion. The physiological impact includes mechanical irritation and potential obstruction of the airway due to swelling.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Philodendron melanochrysum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Philodendron melanochrysum?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7-10 days depending on conditions.
Q: Does Philodendron melanochrysum require bright light?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions, though leaf color may dull.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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