Tiger Tooth Philodendron
Philodendron 'Tiger Tooth'
Tiger Tooth
About this plant
Philodendron Tiger Tooth is a striking tropical plant known for its deeply lobed, glossy green leaves with sharp, tooth-like edges resembling a tiger's claws. It is a climbing plant that adds a dramatic touch to indoor spaces. It is popular for its unique leaf shape and easy-going nature.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Philodendron
- Family
- Araceae
- Higher classification
- Order: Alismatales
- Plant type
- Houseplant
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- South America
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated indoors worldwide, originally from tropical regions of South America.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial shade
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, North-facing, Northeast-facing, Northwest-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 15 °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. Reduce watering in cooler months.
Fertilizing. Feed the plant 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 when growth slows.
Philodendron Tiger Tooth is a moderately easy plant to care for. It prefers indirect light and moderate watering. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. It benefits from occasional feeding and thrives in normal indoor humidity.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- No
Distinctive deeply lobed leaves with sharp, tooth-like edges; glossy dark green foliage; climbing habit.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Contains calcium oxalate crystals which can cause irritation if ingested or if sap contacts skin. Keep away from children and pets.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Philodendron Tiger Tooth 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 wear gloves when pruning or repotting. Keep it away from children and pets to avoid accidental ingestion, which can cause discomfort.
Common problems
Common problems include yellowing leaves from overwatering, brown leaf edges from low humidity or underwatering, and pest issues like spider mites or mealybugs if kept too dry or dusty.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental houseplant for its unique and attractive foliage. It also helps improve indoor air quality.
Notes
Prune occasionally to control size and encourage bushier growth. Repot every 2 years or when roots become crowded. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.