Philodendron Verrucosum: Growing Tips and Tricks

Philodendron verrucosum is a type of philodendron with vivid foliage with a velvety texture. The lifecycle of the philodendron verrucosum begins as a seed on a branch of a tree. The roots gradually extend downwards, ultimately reaching the soil.

What Is Philodendron Verrucosum?

Philodendron verrucosum is a type of hemiepiphyte. These are plants that grow as epiphytes for a part, if not the entirety of their lifecycle.

Epiphytes refer to plants that are attached to other plants and trees as they grow.

There are many kinds of Philodendron verrucosum, but two are easy to identify. One variant has a leaf blade which is red on the rear of its leaf blade. The other variant has a green leaf blade from the back. Besides, there is diversity within the verrucosum species.

Flowering in the Philodendron verrucosum begins in April. The plant produces inflorescence, and the blooms are usually hand-pollinated. The blooming season of the Philodendron verrucosum may vary in different regions.

Philodendron Verrucosum Care

Philodendron verrucosum often requires specific care and maintenance. It is essential to understand how it grows in its natural environment. It naturally grows as a climber. It tends to grow upwards rather than horizontally or along a flat surface.

Philodendron verrucosum’s natural habitat is in Central to South America. It is also grown in  Panama, Peru, and Nicaragua, to Colombia, Costa Rica, and Ecuador. Additionally, the Philodendron verrucosum has a range of different requirements. It is because it thrives at altitudes approximately 164 to 6562 feet above sea level.

Commonly, people consider the Philodendron verrucosum a houseplant that is simple to grow and take care of. It is not always the case as this plant requires greater humidity than regular houseplants. Moreover, the Philodendron verrucosum leaves tend to turn brown and brittle quickly if not watered.

Continue reading for our detailed Philodendron verrucosum care guide. It will show you the best ways to tend for your philodendron verrucosum.

• Soil Requirements

Philodendron verrucosum health depends on the type of soil it grows in. Making the right soil mixture is one of the most crucial factors when it comes to taking care of this plant. The incorrect potting soil can cause a myriad of problems besides distressing the plant. Most of the plant distress is a result of poor drainage or overwatering.

For plants belonging to the Aracaea family, in which numerous species are epiphytes, soil and the correct potting mix are of even greater importance. The roots require direct airflow. It is also known as aeration.

Aeration can only occur if the potting mix has the right level of airiness and can drain water well. For the soil to assist aeration, it will require potting mix that includes chunky ingredients. It will allow the formation of air pockets in the potting medium.

• Light Requirements

Philodendron verrucosum thrives best in filtered or indirect light, such as light coming from a nearby window and not directly touching the leaves. An east-facing window is ideal for such a situation.

In this situation, for most of the day, the plant receives bright indirect light, and in the morning hours can receive direct sunlight as well.

• Water Requirements

To keep your Philodendron verrucosum thriving, imitate tropical jungle conditions by watering plentifully. Aim to keep the soil moist and avoid the extremes of soggy and overly dry conditions. It is important to know what to water your plants.

Although many plant care guides encourage waiting for the soil to dry out before watering Philodendron verrucosum, this is not ideal for the Philodendron verrucosum. Dry soil may prevent water from reaching the roots, acting as a blanket. The right soil can enable your plant to have healthy roots. Some of the leading causes of root rot are poor watering and wrong soil mixture.

• Temperature Requirements

Philodendron verrucosum grows best in temperatures over 68 degrees Fahrenheit. If your Philodendron verrucosum is the type that prefers higher temperatures, then a temperature greater than 77 degrees Fahrenheit is suitable. In addition to the temperature, combined high humidity for ensuring the fast growth rate of Philodendron verrucosum.

On the other hand, some types of philodendron verrucosum prefer colder temperatures (cold growers). Remember that the Philodendron verrucosum often grows in altitudes approximately 164 – 6562 feet above sea level.

• Humidity Requirements

The ideal humidity levels for the Philodendron verrucosum are above 60 percent to ensure that they grow and stay in good health. These plants need to be kept in very humid conditions because they originate from very humid subtropical and tropical regions. Keeping them in terrarium conditions at a humidity above 90 percent helps them to thrive.

If you want to increase humidity around your plants, use these ideas:

• Install a humidifier
• Use a mister
• Place a pebble tray
• Group plants together for improved humidity

In a hot climate, you may have to use more than one method. It will help to create the right environment for your humidity-loving plants.

• Fertilizer Requirements

Philodendron verrucosum should be fertilized a minimum of three times a year. Always apply fertilizer away from the base of the plant. Slow-release fertilizers work best for such plants. These are fertilizers that are available either as solids or as small sticks or multicolored balls.

A lack of good fertilizer can result in the slow growth of the Philodendron verrucosum.

• How To Propagate Philodendron Verrucosum

Philodendron verrucosum can generally be propagated very easily. The most common method is using stem cuttings. Let us first look at its growing habits to understand our plants better.

• Growth

Philodendron verrucosum can be grown and trained using multiple techniques. For these to reach maturity, they need some kind of a supporting structure. A simple stick, if not a moss pole, should be used.

Philodendron verrucosum can usually grow to 3 feet tall, with their leaves reaching this height. Due to the nature of the Philodendron verrucosum of being a climbing plant, a moss pole is most suitable to help it grow and gain considerable height.

A pole will also help the stem to grow thicker and increase the size of leaves as well. The plant’s growth can be affected if it is not allowed to climb and hold on to a pole.

Philodendron verrucosum prefers lower temperatures and will thus grow better in the winter months.

• Potting

Philodendron verrucosum grows best in a pot that has enough space for it to grow. Its extensive root systems need space to grow and expand. It is ideal if you provide it with a large pot.

 

Clay or terracotta pots are often appropriate, as they are good at draining extra water from the soil. However, a drawback can be that you need to water it more often as well.

Philodendron verrucosum can become pot-bound.  For this reason, it is better to repot them every year or two years. If you do not grow your philodendron verrucosum in a terrarium, then it may be a good idea to put a pebble tray beneath it. It will increase the humidity surrounding your Philodendron verrucosum, which the plant will love.

We will discuss more ideas to increase the humidity in the following guide.

Propagation

Philodendron verrucosum can be propagated in a range of ways. Stem cuttings tend to be the easiest and most effective method. We have compiled a detailed guide to assist you with the propagation of the Philodendron verrucosum.

– Stem Cutting Method

Stem cuttings are a common technique used to propagate a variety of philodendron types. These include Philodendron gloriosum, Philodendron selloum, and Philodendron birkin.

Following is a step-by-step guide on how to propagate philodendron verrucosum.

1. Select the part of the Philodendron verrucosum plant that is suitable for propagation
2. Ensure that the part you have selected has a minimum of one node
3. Prepare and disinfect your scissors, knife, or pruning shears by heating them under a flame for a few seconds and using rubbing alcohol
4. Make a clear cut with your blade
5. Put cinnamon on the cut as this will help in preventing infection and will aid them to heal faster
6. Put the philodendron verrucosum cutting into Sphagnum moss. Alternatively, you could use perlite, water, or soil directly
7. Before using the Sphagnum moss, put it in water and then press it in your fist hard a minimum of three times to drain excess water
8. This will result in an optimal humidity level for your moss
9. Put the cutting along with the Sphagnum moss in a pot, jar, or similar container
10. Make sure that the location you choose for your cutting has adequate warmth and humidity, as this is vital in speeding up the process

After about three or four weeks, you should start to notice roots emerging. However, the timing can vary depending on many factors. It can be faster, slower, or completely unchanged.

Apart from the temperature and humidity, the factors affecting the success rate are numerous. The main factor being the season you choose in which you attempt to perform stem cuttings and propagation. Generally, spring and summer are the ideal seasons to propagate houseplants and almost all plants.

– Air Layering Method

Another method you could opt for is air layering. It refers to the process of striving to get roots from the future before cutting. For this method, Sphagnum moss is tied around a node with air roots and covered with plastic.

In about two weeks, you should see roots starting to emerge. Once the root length is enough, you can cut and get a rooted cutting. Isn’t it amazing?

This method has a higher success rate because you get a cutting with roots. However, it is more difficult to perform. Fixing the Sphagnum moss at the stem of the Philodendron verrucosum can be tricky for a beginner.

– Seed Sowing

A viable way to get many plants growing is propagating from seeds. However, the challenge often faced is acquiring it. Aroid seeds tend to be difficult to find, and some often degenerate quickly. It is not always a good idea to buy seeds online.

There are a lot of scams when it comes to buying seeds online.

The best way, thus, is to own two plants so that one can pollinate the other. For this to occur, both would need to bloom at the same time. Alternatively, you could freeze the seeds of one plant and have them ready once the other plant blooms.

Common Problems

Philodendron verrucosum faces problems while growing. We have listed down some to help you identify them and resolve them.

– Yellow Leaves

Yellow leaves are one of the most common problems when it comes to the Philodendron verrucosum. Yellow leaves at the bottom are normal, as these are older leaves. However, more than this indicates overwatering. If you notice excessively yellow leaves, you should reduce the amount and number of times you water your Philodendron verrucosum. If the soil is soggy, it may also be worth checking the soil for root rot as a precautionary measure.

– Drooping Leaves

Drooping leaves is another common issue faced with the Philodendron verrucosum. However, this can sometimes be misleading as it is a sign of two contradicting causes. Drooping leaves in the Philodendron verrucosum either indicates watering too much or too little. Thus, the most important factor here is determining which one it is.

You can do this by inserting your finger in the soil. If it feels very wet and soggy, with a lot of soil clinging to your finger after it is out, it is often an indication of overwatering. Similarly, the opposite would occur in the case of underwatering.

Underwatering is rectified quickly and easily. It simply takes a good amount of watering and a better-suited watering schedule. However, overwatering can be a little more difficult to solve. In the case of overwatering, the soil may need to be removed or exchanged completely.

It is also very possible that root rot starts to set in. It will have the potential of destroying the soil. Thus, you should remove all the soil and disinfect the pot. Then, it would be better to use a more suitable potting soil mix that is more airy and mixed with chunky parts, allowing aeration of roots.

– Root Rot

Philodendron verrucosum can face root rot. Root rot is a disease that is often caused by overwatering. The disease causes roots to die and can affect their health as it spreads quickly and is contagious. The primary cause for root rot is a lack of oxygen to the roots.

The root rot fungus can impact the Philodendron verrucosum and spread quickly to all the roots. Root rot should be identified and treated as fast as possible because it can be seriously harmful and it can cause your plant to die completely.

– Pest Infestation

Philodendron verrucosum can also fall prey to plant pests. These are usually very difficult to remove. They are very tiny, and in many cases, the plant owner does not know that their plant is under attack before it is almost too late. There are some tried and tested ways of getting rid of the majority of pest infestations, listed below:

• Neem Oil

Neem oil is proven to be effective against pests. However, it can be expensive. You can either purchase it in its pure form. In this case, mix it with water if it is not premixed. Spray it on your Philodendron verrucosum.

The scent of neem oil is fascinating. It is disliked by some bugs and liked by others. Most importantly, it is hated by pests and hence effective for pest control. It does require multiple applications before you see results.

• Castile Soap

Philodendron verrucosum can be effectively saved from pest infestations by simply using natural soap. You can do this by mixing one tablespoon of castile soap with one liter of water.

• Rubbing Alcohol

You can treat a pest infestation on your Philodendron verrucosum by diluting rubbing alcohol with water. Use a cloth to clean the plant, and then use half a cup of rubbing alcohol with a quart of water.

All the above methods, while effective, do require multiple applications before you see the full results. Moreover, you may need to repeat the entire process after two to three weeks.

It is repeated because of the possibility that plant pests lay eggs both above and underground, which may hatch during this period and emerge after you have finished off the first lot of pests.

Tips To Keep Philodendron Verrucosum Problem-Free

Philodendron verrucosum can be taken care of and kept healthy and problem-free. We have highlighted some of the essential tips, tricks, and lifehacks key to helping your Philodendron verrucosum grow, reach maturity, and thrive.

• Philodendron verrucosum thrive in high humidity, and hence this is key
• Airy potting mixture is vital as these plants are hemiepiphytes and thus need air to reach the roots
• The majority of Philodendron verrucosum is cold growers; therefore, ensure moderate temperatures

Frequently Asked Questions

– Why does my Philodendron verrucosum have drooping leaves?

Philodendron verrucosum can have drooping leaves when it is overwatered. Do not overwater your plant. Make sure that the soil is well-drained, and see that the pot has enough drainage holes.

– What is the best way to care for my Philodendron verrucosum?

Philodendron verrucosum thrives best in bright indirect light, high humidity, and moderate temperatures. Moreover, an airy potting mix is important. It helps in keeping the soil watered without making it soggy.

– Do Philodendron verrucosum grow fast?

Philodendron verrucosum tends to grow best in autumn and winter. It grows in cold regions and hence prefers colder temperatures.  It will grow fast in colder growing conditions.

Conclusion

Philodendron verrucosum grows on high altitudes and is a cold-loving plant. It comes with its specific growing requirements. If you know how to take care of your Philodendron verrucosum, you will have a rewarding experience as a gardener.

 

Below is an overview of our detailed guide. We hope it will assist you in taking care of your plant and help you solve any problems you encounter while growing it.

• Philodendron verrucosum likes to have a colorful foliage
• It likes to grow on a supporting structure like a moss pole
• The pole helps the stem grow thick and leaves bigger
• Flowers of Philodendron verrucosum appear around spring in most regions
• The plants like cold temperatures and will grow fast in winters, unlike most common house plants
• Philodendron verrucosum also likes to be humid, but overwatering can kill it
• the soil for Philodendron verrucosum needs to have chunkier ingredients to allow aeration
• Aeration is very important for the health of Philodendron verrucosum plants
• Philodendron verrucosum can be propagated through various methods
• Stem cuttings and air layering is the most effective method
• Sowing seeds or even sourcing seeds of Philodendron verrucosum is difficult
• Philodendron verrucosum is attacked by pests and can be protected using natural pest control methods
• The plant can also show signs of disease or illness
• Philodendron verrucosum leaves begin to droop when there is overwatering
• The bottom leaves of the plant turn yellow as they grow old. But if there are many yellow leaves then it is a sign to worry about
• Both of the above problems are signs of overwatering, and it can be solved by improving the drainage and soil quality
• Lack of humidity can also make the leaves brittle and weak
• Improve humidity by adding a pebble tray at the bottom of the pot
• Humidifier, or mister can also be installed
• Alternately, group plants together to increase humidity
• In summers, you might have to use more than one method to increase humidity for your Philodendron verrucosum plants
• Philodendron verrucosum like to grow in a big pot
• The plant needs space to spread its roots and will not like a small congested pot
• Choose clay or terracotta pots for best results

Philodendron verrucosum is a tricky plant to grow. With the right care, you can make it happy and enjoy the rewards of the beautiful tropical plant in your home.