Philodendron hederaceum

Velvet Leaf Philodendron, Philodendron Micans, Heartleaf Philodendron, Sweetheart Plant

Easy careSemi-epiphyteMildly toxic10–180 cm

A trailing philodendron with velvety, heart-shaped leaves that shift between bronze, green, and purple depending on the light. 'Micans' corresponds to P. hederaceum var. hederaceum, the velvet-leaved variety native to tropical America. It climbs readily on moss poles or trails along surfaces, and does well in the warm, humid conditions of a closed terrarium.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Velvet Leaf Philodendron image

Care

Prefers medium humidity, indirect light, with 18–29 °C, and reaches 180 cm at maturity.

Light

Indirect light(preferred)Bright indirectShade tolerant

Humidity

Medium (40–60%)(preferred)High (60–80%)

Temperature

10°C25°C40°C
18°C – 29°C

Soil

Well draining(preferred)Peat mossOrchid mix

Moisture

Moist(preferred)

Soil pH

5.6 – 7.5

Propagation

Take stem cuttings with at least one node and root in water or moist sphagnum moss. Roots appear in 2–3 weeks. Spring and summer give the best results during active growth. Rooting hormone is optional but can speed things up.

Native range

Native to Northern South America, Mexico, Central America, Caribbean, Western South America, and Brazil.

Appearance

Growth habit

ClimbingTrailing

Leaf shape

Heart

Leaf texture

Velvety

Frequently asked

Can Velvet Leaf Philodendron grow in a closed terrarium?

Velvet Leaf Philodendron prefers medium (40–60%) humidity, which is below the level a closed terrarium typically maintains. It is better suited to an open terrarium or houseplant setup.

Does Velvet Leaf Philodendron need drainage?

Velvet Leaf Philodendron prefers a moist substrate. Drainage is helpful but not critical; consistent moisture matters more.

What humidity does Velvet Leaf Philodendron need?

Velvet Leaf Philodendron does best in medium (40–60%) humidity.

Is Velvet Leaf Philodendron pet-safe?

Velvet Leaf Philodendron is mildly toxic if ingested — keep out of reach of pets and children.

How tall does Velvet Leaf Philodendron grow?

Velvet Leaf Philodendron typically reaches 10–180 cm at maturity.

How do you propagate Velvet Leaf Philodendron?

Velvet Leaf Philodendron can be propagated by stem cuttings or air layering.

References

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    NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox

    https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/philodendron-hederaceum/
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