Heartleaf Philodendron

Heartleaf Philodendron
Heartleaf Philodendron

Here’s a complete care guide for Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) 💚

🌿 Overview

  • Botanical Name: Philodendron hederaceum

  • Common Name: Heartleaf Philodendron, Sweetheart Plant

  • Family: Araceae

  • Type: Tropical evergreen vine

  • Origin: Central & South America

☀️ Light

  • Thrives in bright, indirect light.

  • Tolerates low light, making it great for indoor spaces.

  • Avoid direct sunlight — it can scorch the leaves.

💧 Watering

  • Water when the top 3–4 cm of soil feels dry.

  • Keep soil lightly moist, not soggy.

  • Reduce watering during winter.

  • Yellow leaves usually mean overwatering.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

  • Ideal temperature: 18–30°C.

  • Avoid cold drafts or temperatures below 15°C.

  • Prefers moderate to high humidity.

  • You can mist the leaves or place near a humidifier.

Heartleaf Philodendron
Heartleaf Philodendron

🌱 Soil

  • Use a well-draining, airy mix —
    a blend of peat moss, perlite, and coco coir works well.

  • Avoid compact or clayey soil.

🌸 Fertilizer

  • Feed once every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.

  • No need to fertilize in winter.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

  • Prune to control size and encourage bushy growth.

  • Pinch back long vines or leggy stems.

  • Wipe leaves regularly to remove dust and allow proper breathing.

🪴 Repotting

  • Repot every 2–3 years, or when roots start to circle the pot.

  • Use fresh potting mix and a slightly larger pot with good drainage.

🧩 Propagation

  • Very easy!

  • Take stem cuttings with at least one node and place them in water or moist soil.

  • Roots form in 2–3 weeks.

Heartleaf Philodendron
Heartleaf Philodendron

🐛 Common Problems Heartleaf Philodendron

Problem Cause Solution
Yellow leaves Overwatering Let soil dry; adjust schedule
Brown tips Low humidity or underwatering Increase humidity; water consistently
Leggy growth Too little light Move to brighter spot
Drooping leaves Thirsty or root rot Check moisture and roots

🌼 Extra Tips

  • Excellent air-purifying plant.

  • Grows well in hanging baskets, shelves, or moss poles.

  • Rotate regularly for even growth.