Syngonium podophyllum

Arrowhead Vine, Arrowhead Plant, Arrowhead Philodendron, Goosefoot Plant, Nephthytis, African Evergreen, American Evergreen

Easy careSemi-epiphyteModerately toxic30–180 cm

A fast-growing tropical aroid native to rainforests from Mexico through Brazil. Juvenile leaves are arrowhead-shaped, often with silvery or white variegation. As the plant matures and climbs, the leaves change into deeply lobed forms with up to 11 leaflets. Adaptable and forgiving, it does best in medium indirect light and high humidity. It works well in open terrariums and large wardian cases with regular pruning. All parts are toxic due to calcium oxalate crystals.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Arrowhead Vine image

Photo by Jacek Dabkiewicz·CC BY-SA 4.0

Care

Prefers high humidity, indirect light, with 15–30 °C, and reaches 180 cm at maturity.

Light

Indirect light(preferred)Shade tolerantBright indirect

Humidity

High (60–80%)(preferred)Medium (40–60%)Very high (80%+)

Temperature

10°C25°C40°C
15°C – 30°C

Soil

Well draining(preferred)Peat mossSphagnum mix

Moisture

Moist(preferred)

Soil pH

5.5 – 6.5

Propagation

Take a stem cutting with at least one node and one or two leaves. Root in water, changing it weekly, or in a moist, well-draining mix. Roots form in 2–4 weeks in water and 3–6 weeks in soil. Spring or summer gives the best results.

Native range

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

Appearance

Growth habit

ClimbingTrailingBushy

Leaf shape

HeartLobedCompound

Leaf texture

SmoothGlossy

Frequently asked

Can Arrowhead Vine grow in a closed terrarium?

Yes. Arrowhead Vine prefers high (60–80%) humidity, which is what a closed terrarium provides, and tolerates indirect-light-loving conditions.

Does Arrowhead Vine need drainage?

Arrowhead Vine prefers a moist substrate. Drainage is helpful but not critical; consistent moisture matters more.

What humidity does Arrowhead Vine need?

Arrowhead Vine does best in high (60–80%) humidity.

Is Arrowhead Vine pet-safe?

Arrowhead Vine is moderately toxic if ingested — keep out of reach of pets and children.

How tall does Arrowhead Vine grow?

Arrowhead Vine typically reaches 30–180 cm at maturity.

How do you propagate Arrowhead Vine?

Arrowhead Vine can be propagated by stem cuttings or division.

References

  1. 1

    Kew Plants of the World Online — Syngonium podophyllum

    https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:89152-1
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    Smart Garden Guide — Arrowhead Plant Propagation

    https://smartgardenguide.com/arrowhead-plant-propagation/