If you're interested in exploring the world of exotic philodendrons but are unsure where to begin, here's a brief list of jungle beauties that will add elegance and drama to your houseplant collection.
Tiger Tooth Plant
With its large dark red and green foliage and upright posture, the tiger tooth plant (also known as Philodendron sp. "Narrow") adds a sense of drama to any plant arrangement. As with other large-leafed aroids, remove smaller "baby" leaves at the base to encourage the formation of larger leaves at the top of the plant. Mature specimens tiger tooth can climb a moss pole ten feet high under the right conditions. Keep this guy in bright indirect light to maximize growth or in medium light to keep him tame.
Selloum
Often mistaken for (and sometimes labeled as) a monstera, philodendron selloum's huge, deeply incised leaves add a dramatic touch to any domestic jungle. Known taxonomically as Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, Selloum is also called split-leaf philodendron and horsehead philodendron. Living in the Northeastern US, I place my selloums outside on an east-facing, covered porch during the summer to promote growth and vigor for the colder months ahead. This allows me to place them in medium light for the rest of the year. Ensure you have space for these ersatz monsters, as they can grow quite large. Mature specimens can spread to six feet across or larger in a home environment.
"Brazil"
"Brazil, where hearts were entertaining June." So goes the song, and indeed Philodendron hederaceum "Brasil" loves the warmer months. However, its beautiful patterned leaves and prolific vines will bring joy to your home jungle year-round. Once considered rare as a houseplant, Brazil can now be found at a reasonable price even in the plant section of your local grocery store. It's easy to grow and propagate. To keep it compact and large-leafed, prune regularly and place near a bright, indirect light source. Alternatively, place it in a medium light environment and let it vine. Although my collection of rare and stunning philodendrons has grown since adding it, "There's one thing that I'm certain of, Return, I will, to old Brazil."
Micans
Another vining philodendron, Philodendron micans is known for its delicate, velvety leaves and steady growth habits. This plant thrives on a high shelf or hung from the ceiling. P. micans will enchant you with its easy-going nature and heart-shaped foliage. Last year, I added a kitchen island with an overhead pot rack. Of course, the only pots on the rack are potted plants. My micans does well here, spreading its green arms among its neighbors in a way that seems more friendly than aggressive. Because I wanted to style it in a vintage pot that unfortunately has no drainage, I have to be very careful with its watering (no damp roots!). Luckily, micans is one of those "canary" plants that will droop just slightly to indicate when it's thirsty. Perhaps not as much of a showoff as some more dramatic philodendron species, micans will nonetheless win you over with its gentle and elegant beauty.
Palm-Like Philodendron
Although initially appearing to be an upright variety in their young form, Philodendron mayoi, or the palm-like philodendron, will soon reveal its true vining nature as its long stems reach out to the nearest light source. Use a moss pole or other supports to reorient this climber to showcase its stunning palm-like foliage. Mayoi is easy to care for and unfussy. They thrive in medium light and tolerate a light touch with watering and fertilizer.
Remember that these are just a small sample of the vast array and variety that philodendrons have to offer. With hundreds of varieties and hybrids becoming increasingly available, you're sure to never get bored with these lovely and sophisticated plants. 🪴
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