Philodendron 'Florida Green'
Philodendron Florida Green
Ask someone who knows a lot about houseplants to name some plants with unusual leaf shapes. There's a good chance that they'll mention philodendron Florida green.
It's hard to describe exactly what the leaf looks like, but it's easy to recognize once you've seen it.
Here's one attempt: the top of the leaf is almost star-shaped and its four points are symmetrical and small, while the rest of the leaf is long and oval, tapering at the bottom, like a "normal" leaf.
But as the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words. Let's stop trying to describe and just admire the beauty, shall we?
Table of Contents
- Summary
- Appearance
- Care
- Light
- Soil
- Fertilizer
- Water and humidity
- Temperature
- Common pests
- Propagation
- Cal Plants tips and tricks
- Common questions
- Companions
Philodendron Florida Green Summary
Feature | Facts |
---|---|
Scientific name | Philodendron 'Florida Green', Philodendron squamiferum x philodendron pedatum |
Common name | Florida green philodendron, Selloum philodendron, Horsehead philodendron |
Family | Araceae |
Origin | Planned hybrid |
Toxicity | Toxic to children and pets if ingested |
Sun exposure | Medium indirect light, partial shade |
Soil type | Well draining, fertile soil |
Watering | Moderate |
Hardiness | 45°F, USDA Zone 10 |
Philodendron Florida Green Appearance
Philodendron Florida green was hybridized specifically for beauty and hardiness.
The lobed leaves are iconic and the most noticeable part of the Florida green. When they are young, they are small and have a long teardrop shape that tapers at the bottom. When they mature, they become larger and take on different lobed shapes. Some develop three points, with the long, oval leaves with a tapered point at the bottom appearing to have two small wings at the top. Some develop five points, with the long oval leaves with a tapered point at the bottom appearing to have a partial star at the top. The leaves are glossy, thick, and sturdy in texture and medium-green in color.
The main stems are smooth and red-green. The petioles that connect the stems to the leaves have a rough, bumpy texture, and are green, red-green, or bright red.
Philodendron Florida green is a vining plant. It will naturally look for spots to climb up, so it can be trained with a moss pole or trellis.
It has a robust root system, with thick roots that spread quickly. It also has aerial roots that will help it climb and support itself.
Philodendron Florida Green Care
Light
Philodendron Florida Green needs medium to low-medium sun exposure. Place it in a location that gets bright, indirect light. Soft direct morning or late afternoon light is fine, but harsh direct afternoon sunlight can scorch the leaves. Direct light refers to the sun rays hitting the plant directly, whereas indirect light refers to diffused light.
Soil
Well-draining soil is crucial so that your plant doesn't rot. Commercial indoor potting mixes work well. To create your own indoor potting mix for your philodendron Florida green, mix 50% coconut coir with 25% perlite or sand and 25% composted soil.
Fertilizer
Fresh potting soil should already contain good fertilizer, but it will eventually be devoid of nutrients as the philodendron uses it up. At the next growing season, use a balanced water-soluble fertilizer, following the instructions on the label. If you create your own potting soil, add new composted soil every time you repot to a larger pot.
Water and humidity
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. You can stick your finger in the soil or use a moisture meter.
Philodendron Florida green is happiest in humid conditions, but it can tolerate lower humidity levels. In dry areas, increase the humidity such as by using a humidifier or make sure the temperatures are warm and the soil is never allowed to completely dry out.
Temperature
Philodendron Florida Green thrives in a warm environment, ideally between 65-85°F.
Philodendron Florida Green Common Pests
Philodendron Florida Green is mostly pest-resistant.
Philodendron Florida Green Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Philodendron Florida Green is via cuttings.
Using a sharp pair of shears of scissors, cut a stem with 1 or 2 nodes right above the node on the mother plant. The node is a growth point where new stems or leaves grow. Either place the cutting in water or soil. If you're using water, change it every week to prevent algae and mold. If using soil, you can optionally use rooting hormone or just stick it right into the soil. Keep the soil slightly moist until the cutting becomes established.
Philodendron Florida Green Tips and Tricks
Although you can have your philodendron Florida green grow in a hanging basket, this plant is happiest when it's allowed to climb up. We recommend using a moss pole so that it can secure itself, become more robust as it grows, and also extract humidity from the moss.
The unique lobed shape of the Florida green is sure to attract attention. Use as a statement piece to enhance lush, upscale, and tropical vibes.
Florida green makes for a great gift for those that enjoy unique and rare plants.
Philodendron Florida Green Common Questions
How much does philodendron Florida green cost?
We at Cal Plants sell them for $19.
Is philodendron Florida green a good plant for beginners?
Yes, philodendron Florida green is low maintenance as long as the environment is warm and somewhat humid. For those with lower humidity conditions, a closer eye on the water levels in the soil is required.
Why are the leaves of my philodendron Florida green wilting?
If the leaves of your philodendron Florida green are wilting, it is probably not getting enough water. Check the moisture level in the soil, and if it's dry, deeply water the plant. Going forward, do not allow the pot to go bone dry. Rather, let it slightly dry out in between waterings.
Do I need a moss pole for my philodendron Florida green cost?
You will not need it right away while it is still young and in a 4 inch pot. However, once the stems seem to require support, we recommend getting a moss pole so that it can secure itself, become more robust as it grows, and also extract humidity from the moss.
Philodendron Florida Green Companions
Below are some plants with similar needs for care.
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