Dark Form Scindapsus

scindapsus treubii

Also known as: ["Scindapsus treubii 'Dark Form'","Philodendron treubii"]

Family: Araceae Genus: Scindapsus Category: Leaf Plants

Overview

A tropical vine with dark, velvety leaves native to Southeast Asia.

Benefits & Perks

["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Alismatales
Family: Araceae
Genus: Scindapsus
Botanical Name: Scindapsus treubii

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Leaf Plants
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot in a shaded area with bright, indirect light
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Indoor Plant Lovers Collectors & Enthusiasts Elderly Gardeners
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
  • Misting: every 1–2 weeks to maintain humidity
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with perlite or orchid bark for aeration.
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 6–8 hours/day; tolerate lower light but may lose variegation.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light; avoid direct sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

easy

Sunlight

low to medium indirect light

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for direct light; monitor for leaf burn.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings

Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.

Soil

well-draining, peat-based potting mix

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure soil doesn’t compact; use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil.

Temperature

Ideal 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures, avoiding drafts or extreme fluctuations.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable conditions; protect from drafts.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer)

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
  1. Select healthy stem.
  2. Cut below node.
  3. Remove lower leaves.
  4. Place in medium.
  5. 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; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), water or soil medium.

Quick Tips

Use nodes for roots; keep cuttings humid; change water regularly if using water propagation.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut just above a leaf node or junction; use clean, sharp tools.

Pruning Plan

Remove leggy growth, yellow leaves, and encourage bushier growth; maintain shape.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilized scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; cut at correct angle; remove dead/damaged growth; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider); ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; use fresh soil to refresh nutrients.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use 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 thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture but not waterlogging; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite, orchid bark, or coarse sand to improve drainage; mix in organic matter for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in response to sudden changes.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to pests.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; maintain humidity.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration despite adequate watering.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

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

Yellow leaves in Scindapsus treubii can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's overall health and photosynthetic efficiency.

Wilting in Scindapsus treubii is often a sign of water stress, either due to underwatering or root rot from overwatering, impacting the plant's ability to transport water and nutrients.

Leaf spots on Scindapsus treubii may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, resulting in unsightly discoloration and potential leaf drop, which can affect the plant's aesthetic value.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Scindapsus treubii due to excessive moisture, leading to decay and eventual plant death if not addressed promptly.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly sensitive to the calcium oxalate crystals in Scindapsus treubii. Ingestion can cause severe irritation to the mouth, throat, and digestive system, potentially leading to respiratory distress or systemic toxicity.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting excessive drooling difficulty breathing oral pain lethargy pawing at the mouth
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep the plant away from cats. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Scindapsus treubii can lead to significant irritation of the oral cavity, esophagus, and gastrointestinal tract due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. This can result in discomfort and potential systemic effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
drooling pawing at the mouth vomiting difficulty swallowing oral pain lack of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

If a dog ingests any part of the plant, contact a veterinarian immediately. Do not induce vomiting without professional guidance.
Humans
Toxic

Scindapsus treubii contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause severe irritation and inflammation upon ingestion. The crystals physically damage the mucous membranes and tissues, leading to intense pain and swelling.

⚠️ Symptoms:
oral pain difficulty swallowing burning sensation swelling of the mouth and throat nausea vomiting diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep out of reach of children and wash hands thoroughly after handling the plant. Seek medical attention if ingestion occurs.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Scindapsus treubii toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: How much light does Scindapsus treubii need?

A: It thrives in low to medium indirect light and can tolerate shade.

Q: Why are the leaves of my Scindapsus treubii turning yellow?

A: Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering, underwatering, or insufficient light.

Quick Reference
Family: Araceae
Care: moderate
Light: low to medium indirect light
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["beginners","indoor plant lovers","collectors/enthusiasts","elderly gardeners"]
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