The Philodendron Atabapoense is a relatively rare type of Philodendron that produces climbing vines. These plants originate from the Amazon rainforest and are also native South Venezuela.
Philodendron Atabapoense is relatively easy to look after as they are tolerant to moderate neglect. These plants will thrive in bright indirect sun with well-draining soil. Let’s look at how to grow and care for a Philodendron Atabapoense plant.
What is a Philodendron Atabapoense?
The Philodendron Atabapoense is a semi-epiphytic plant that climbs up other trees. To reach its maximum size, this philodendron variety needs to be trained with vertical support. A moss pole can be used to help the Philodendron Atabapoense thrive.
Philodendron Atabapoense make great houseplants as they are air purifiers and are the perfect plant for homes and offices. Like all Philodendrons, the Atabapoense is toxic to humans and animals. Be careful when handling your plant, as it can cause skin irritation.
This variety of philodendrons does well outdoors in mild climates. If you live in USDA zones 9b to 11, your plant can be kept outdoors year-round. In USDA zones 4a to 11, you can move your plant outside onto a patio in the summer and bring it back inside in the fall. The Philodendron Atabapoense has attractive green foliage with a slightly burgundy tint on its undersides.
Philodendron Atabapoense Growth and Care
The Philodendron Atabapoense is pretty hardy and can survive neglect and harsh conditions. However, it’s best to provide proper care to your plant so that it can thrive. Here are some tips to help you care for your Philodendron Atabapoense:
Sunlight
The Philodendron Atabapoense likes bright indirect sun and some partial shade. As these plants come from the rainforest and are overshadowed by giant trees, they can survive in low to medium light. It’s best to grow your plant in an area with bright filtered light. Please don’t leave your Philodendron Atabapoense in the full sun, or its leaves will be scorched.
When growing a Philodendron Atabapoense outside, it may be beneficial to use a shade cloth to protect your plant from the sun’s UV rays.
Water
Philodendron Atabapoense plants should be watered regularly throughout the growing season. Watering can be reduced in winter. It’s best to wait until the topsoil has dried out before watering again. Most people find that they need to water Atabapoense once or twice weekly. The exact amount of water your plant requires will depend on the climate where you live.
Philodendron Atabapoense are prone to root rot and shouldn’t be overwatered. It’s best to provide small amounts of water to avoid this problem.
Philodendron Atabapoense Growth and Care: Soil
Philodendron Atabapoense thrives in good quality soil that’s moist and contains organic matter. These plants also need to be planted in well-draining soil that’s loose and airy. You can add some sphagnum peat moss, perlite, or vermiculite to standard houseplant soil. Aim to create a soil with a pH range that’s neutral or slightly acidic and is between 6.1 to 7.3.
Philodendron Atabapoense Growth and Care: Temperature
Philodendron Atabapoense plants are tropical and thrive in warm, humid environments. These plants do best when temperatures are between 55 to 80F.
Humidity
Philodendron Atabapoense likes high humidity of between 65 to 70%. You can improve humidity for your plant by placing it in the bathroom, where it will get steam from the shower. Alternatively, daily misting with a fine spray will stop your plant’s foliage from drying out. If you have lots of tropical plants, you may like to invest in a humidifier.
Fertilizer
Philodendron Atabapoense plants don’t need to be fertilized, but providing a diluted fertilizer regularly will help with growth. You’ll find that your plant is very slow-growing without fertilizer. You may like to use a liquid or slow-release fertilizer two or three times annually. A 20-20-20 fertilizer can be applied monthly in the spring and early summer.
Be careful not to over-fertilize your plant, or its roots will be burned by the chemicals. It may be best to choose an organic fertilizer for your plant.
Philodendron Atabapoense Growth and Care: Conclusion
Philodendron Atabapoense are beautiful plants that grow well as houseplants. These creeping plants grow long vines and can be grown against moss support which will encourage them to climb. They can also be grown outside in the right climate. The Philodendron Atabapoense has attractive green foliage with a slightly burgundy tint on its undersides.