The Philodendron Bernardopazii is a rare and beautiful variety of Philodendron. It has large glossy foilage that are heart-shaped. These plants originate in the Brazilian rainforest and are very easy to look after. They require bright indirect sunlight, regular watering, and a moss pole to climb.
Philodendron Bernardopazii are tropical perennials that produce vines and climb up trees from the rainforest floor. The species can get quite large, but with regular pruning, the size can be maintained. Let’s look at how to grow and care for a Philodendron Bernardopazii.
What is a Philodendron Bernardopazii plant?
The Philodendron Bernardopazii is a rare variety of Philodendron that’s part of the Araceae family. It can be kept as a houseplant or grown outdoors in areas such as Miami and Florida, with a USDA zone of 10b or 11. As these plants are rare, they are harder to source than many philodendrons and will likely cost a lot more.
The Philodendron Bernardopazii is an evergreen plant that can be grown in a container with a moss pole for support or left trail over a shelf or windowsill. These plants can grow very large and also spread widthways. In the wild, they climb and grow aerial roots that help them cling to larger trees. When grown in a pot, the plant’s growth will be stunted.
Large, mature specimens can flower and produce fruit, but Philodendron Bernardopazii is unlikely to bloom when kept indoors. The seeds of the fruit can be collected to grow a new plant.
Like all Philodendrons, the Bernardopazii plant is toxic to humans and animals if ingested. Keep tropical plants away from young children and pets. Philodendrons are also toxic to livestock, so ensure cattle or horses won’t eat your plant if you plant outdoors. All philodendron species can cause skin irritation, so it’s best to wear gloves when handling.
How to Care for a Philodendron Bernardopazii
Philodendron Bernardopazii are relatively easy to care for and have very similar care needs as other species of philodendron. Here are some tips to help you grow a thriving Philodendron Bernardopazii plant:
Sunlight
The Philodendron Bernardopazii grows best in indirect sunlight and can be placed near a window. If you want to grow your plant on a windowsill, it’s best to use a shade cloth to avoid sunburn. Plants can get burnt, even through glass. Sunburned plants will develop brown patches on their foliage but will recover if they’re moved to a more suitable location.
The Philodendron Bernardopazii is a rainforest plant that grows on the forest floor; it likes dabbled shade. Ensure your plant gets enough light, as too much shade will cause the leaves to become discolored.
Watering Requirements
Philodendron Bernardopazii needs to be watered regularly. Provide a medium amount of water, and then let the topsoil dry out before watering again. Be careful not to overwater your plant as philodendrons are prone to root rot.
Soil
The Philodendron Bernardopazii requires loose, well-draining soil with a pH range that’s either strongly acidic and between 5.1 to 5.5 or acidic and from 5.6 to 6.0. It’s vital to get the drainage right to avoid the plant becoming waterlogged, which will cause root rot. When repotting your plant, you can use a standard houseplant compost and mix in some perlite. Alternatively, use a tropical plant premix.
Fertilization
Philodendron Bernardopazii aren’t heavy feeders but will benefit from a good quality fertilizer monthly throughout the growing season. You can stop fertilizing in the fall and winter when your plant’s growth will slow, and it will become dormant.
Humidity
As Philodendrons comes from a humid environment, they require regular misting to stop their leaves from drying out. Mist your plant using a fine spray bottle, but be careful not to soak the leaves, or they may become rotten. Alternatively, grow your plant in the kitchen or bathroom as these places are naturally more humid.
Philodendron Bernardopazii Propagation
Philodendron Bernardopazii can be propagated from herbaceous stem cuttings or by using air layering methods.
Pests
Philodendron can be affected by sap-sucking insects such as spider mites and mealybugs. You should regularly check your plants for signs of infestation and wipe or shower off insects as they appear. You may also like to use an insecticidal spray if an infestation has occurred. Philodendrons are also prone to getting Philodendron leaf-spot disease.
If your philodendron is having leaf coloration issues, it could be due to a pest. We’ve written guides to why philodendron’s turn yellow and why their leaves may be turning brown, if you need them.
Conclusion
Philodendron Bernardopazii are rare plants that are easy to care for. They can be looked after in the same way as other philodendrons. Pay particular attention to sunlight, humidity, and watering needs. It’s also best to grow these plants in loose well-draining soil.
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