Philodendron pedatum Variegata

What Is Philodendron Pedatum

Philodendron pedatum, also known as Oak Leaf Philodendron, is a tropical climbing plant native to Brazil, Columbia, and Venezuela. It belongs to the Araceae family, and it has puzzled botanists ever since it was first described in the 1840s. The plant has been renamed and reclassified several times. Some of the names it’s known under include Philodendron laciniatum, P. amazonicum, and P. quercifolium.In the houseplant trade, Philodendron pedatum is popular due to its unique, evergreen foliage. The name “Oak Leaf Philodendron” comes from the iconic shape that Philodendron pedatum leaves have. With 5 or 7 lobes, a deep green color, and growing up to 8 inches (20 cm) in length, they really stand out. This plant loves climbing, and if you provide it with a moss pole, the leaves can almost double in size.

Philodendron pedatum is a fast grower. When cultivated as an indoor plant, it can easily reach over 3 feet (90 cm) in height. It can grow as tall as 10 feet (3 meters) with the right conditions, especially when provided with a structure to climb on.

– Is Philodendron Pedatum the Same as Philodendron Florida?

Philodendron pedatum and Philodendron Florida look very similar. Unless you buy a variegated hybrid, such as Florida Ghost or Florida Beauty, they will both have green, multi-lobed leaves and the same growth habits. But they are not the same plant. So how do you tell them apart?

The main difference between these two plants is the petiole. Philodendron pedatum has smooth leaf stems that are usually green in color. Meanwhile, the stems on Philodendron Florida have a slightly bumpy texture and are typically dark red or maroon.

– Is Philodendron Pedatum Toxic?

All Philodendron plants are toxic to humans and pets, and the Philodendron pedatum is no exception. The leaves contain calcium oxalate crystals. If ingested, they will cause swelling of the tongue, lips, and throat, a burning sensation in the mouth, nausea, vomiting, and even edema. Keep this plant in a place where pets and kids can’t reach.

Light Requirements

Philodendron pedatum needs bright indirect light for healthy growth. Pick a part of your home where it can receive at least six hours of light per day. A room with an eastern or western exposure is ideal. Avoid placing your Philodendron in direct sunlight, as this will scorch the leaves. If you’re keeping it on a windowsill, make sure that you use sheer curtains, which will help filter the direct sunlight

Philodendron pedatum can tolerate some shade like all epiphytes, but it will grow best if provided with plenty of light. Bright indirect light will encourage it to produce abundant foliage and also prevent fungal problems. During the winter months, you can supplement the plant’s lighting needs using LED grow lights.

– Temperature Requirements

The ideal temperature range for Philodendron pedatum is between 60 F and 77 F (16 C to 25 C). This tropical plant is not frost-tolerant and can suffer permanent damage if temperatures drop below 50 F (10 C). Even though it prefers warmer climates, it’s best to note that it will struggle to grow if temperatures exceed 82 F (28 C

You can grow Philodendronpedatum outdoors if you live in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. Keep the pot in a part of your garden where the plant will be sheltered from the direct midday sun. If the temperatures drop below 59 F (15 C) during the night, bring the Philodendron back indoors until the weather gets warmer.

– Water Requirements

Philodendron pedatum prefers soils that are kept moist but not soaked. Use your finger to test the surface of the soil, and if the top inch feels dry to the touch, it’s time to water your plant. We recommend using the soak and drain watering method. Pour water evenly over the soil until it starts to drip through the drainage holes, then leave the container to drain until the water stops dripping from the bottom.

The watering needs for Philodendron pedatum will change depending on the season, the temperature, as well as the size of the plant and the container. During the hotter months, check the soil at least once a week and water as needed. In winter, the plant will need less water as its growth rate slows down. You will only need to water it once every 7 to 10 days.

– Humidity Requirements

Philodendron pedatum is a tropical plant that enjoys a humid growing environment. Try to keep the humidity levels in your home around 50 percent to prevent the foliage from drying at the edges and pests such as spider mites. If you can, it’s worth boosting the humidity level to around 70 to 80 percent.

The easiest way to increase humidity around your Philodendron pedatum is using a humidifier. Alternatively, you can place the pot on top of a pebble tray, and the evaporating water will help raise the moisture in the air. You can also mist the leaves, but bear in mind that you will need to do this every day for any noticeable effects.

– Soil Requirements

The best soil mix for Philodendron pedatum should be nutrient-rich, well-draining, with the ability to retain moisture and provide aeration to the roots. Most Philodendron plants are epiphytes, which means that they grow on trees.