Tree Philodendron
Philodendron bipennifolium aurea
aurea
About this plant
Philodendron bipennifolium aurea, commonly known as the Tree Philodendron, is a tropical climbing plant with large, deeply lobed, glossy green leaves that have a golden-yellow tint. It is admired for its dramatic foliage and is often grown indoors as a decorative houseplant. It can climb or trail, making it versatile for indoor spaces.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Philodendron
- Family
- Araceae
- Higher classification
- Order: Alismatales
- Plant type
- Houseplant
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Central America, South America
- Distribution
- Native to tropical regions of Central and South America; widely cultivated as a houseplant worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial shade
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Greenhouse, Balcony
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, North-facing, Northeast-facing, Northwest-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 18-26 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10-12
- Soil pH
- 5.5-7.0
- Soil type
- well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
Watering. Water when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in water to prevent root rot. Increase humidity if leaves develop brown edges.
Fertilizing. Feed every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce feeding in fall and winter.
This plant is moderately easy to care for. It prefers indirect light and moderate watering. Overwatering can cause root rot, so allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. It benefits from occasional feeding and appreciates higher humidity but can tolerate average indoor conditions.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- No
Large, deeply lobed, glossy leaves with a golden-yellow tint; climbing growth habit.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
The plant's sap can cause mild irritation if it comes into contact with skin or is ingested. Keep away from children and pets to avoid accidental ingestion.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Philodendron bipennifolium aurea may cause mild skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals due to its sap. People who are sensitive to plant sap should handle it with care and wash hands after touching the plant.
Common problems
Common problems include yellowing leaves from overwatering, brown leaf tips due to low humidity, and occasional pest issues like spider mites or mealybugs.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental houseplant for its attractive foliage and air-purifying qualities.
Notes
Prune to control size and shape; supports or trellises help climbing growth. Repot every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C (50°F).