Philodendrons are easy to care for and difficult to kill, making them the perfect plants for beginners. The Philodendron Brandtianum is a beautiful tropical plant that originates from tropical regions of South America.
The Philodendron Brandtianum is a popular houseplant that can be grown outdoors in warm, humid climates. If you live in USDA zones 9a to 11, you can plant a Philodendron Brandtianum in your yard.
The Philodendron Brandtianum is also known as the Silver Leaf Philodendron due to its variegated foliage. The plant has unique heart shapes leaves that are olive green with silver patches. Let’s look at how to grow and care for a Philodendron Brandtianum.
What is a Philodendron Brandtianum?
The Philodendron Brandtianum is an interesting plant as it can grow as a terrestrial planet in the soil or as an epiphyte or hemiepiphyte. How the plant grows will vary depending on the growing environment. These plants grow areal roots to attach themselves to larger trees and shrubs. When being grown as a houseplant, you can use a moss pole to support your philodendron.
The Philodendron Brandtianum is part of the Araceae family and is native to Peru, Brazil, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Colombia. Philodendrons are air-cleaning plants that are fast-growing and look great in hanging baskets and terrariums. They are also toxic if ingested and should be kept away from children and pets.
Related Philodendron: Blushing Philodendron
Philodendron Brandtianum Growth and Care
Philodendron Brandtianum are easy-going plants that are great for beginners. They do have some specific care requirements. Here are some tips to help you grow a thriving Philodendron Brandtianum plant.
Watering Requirements
Philodendron Brandtianum requires a moderate amount of water which should be provided at regular intervals. It’s a good idea to wait until the top 2 inches of soil have dried out completely before watering your plant. Most people find that their Philodendron Brandtianum needs to be watered one to three times weekly. Philodendrons are reasonably resistant to drought, but you should be careful not to underwater your plant as the foliage will start to turn yellow.
Philodendron Brandtianum plants are sensitive to overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Don’t let the soil become waterlogged, or your plant’s roots will deteriorate, and the plant won’t be able to absorb the air and nutrients it needs.
Soil
Philodendron Brandtianum do best when planted in loose, well-draining soil. Ensure that the earth is fertile and rich in nutrients. The pot should have drainage holes to allow excess water to drain away.
Philodendron Brandtianum requires soil that has a pH range of between 6.1 and 7.3. You can add some peat moss and perlite to the soil to improve its consistency.
Light
The Philodendron Brandtianum thrives in sunlight that’s bright and indirect. Filtered sunlight is best for this plant, and you can use a 20 to 40% shade cloth to protect your plant from the sun’s harsh UV rays.
Be careful not to leave your plant in the full sun as philodendrons can get sunburnt. It’s best to place your plant on or near a north or east-facing windowsill.
Philodendron Brandtianum can adapt well to areas with lower lighting and can grow well in partial shade.
Temperature
All Philodendron varieties should be kept in a warm place with a temperature of between 50 and 95 o F. In many areas, these plants can be moved outside to a patio in the summer. Ensure you bring your plant back indoors in the fall and winter as Philodendron Brandtianum aren’t cold tolerant.
Humidity
Philodendron Brandtianum plants love high humidity of between 50 to 60%. Your plants need enough moisture to encourage growth. You can use a pebble tray, mist your plants or invest in a humidifier to help achieve the desired humidity.
Fertilization
Philodendron Brandtianum plants require a good quality organic fertilizer to help them thrive. These plants can be fertilized once a month during the growing season. A slow-release 15-5-10 fertilizer is best for philodendrons. Don’t use cheap products as they are likely to be high in salts which can damage your plant’s roots.
Pruning
Philodendron Brandtianum plants are fast-growing, and their vines can get very long. You can trim your plant regularly to maintain its shape and size. It’s best only to prune once or twice annually, remove any leaves that are dead or have been damaged.
Related article: Why is my philodendron turning yellow?
Philodendron Brandtianum Growth and Care: Conclusion
The Philodendron Brandtianum is the perfect tropical plant for beginners. It looks great and is relatively easy to care for. With the proper care, this plant will thrive and be an eye-catching addition to your home.