Heartleaf Philodendron Care

The smooth, glossy, dark green foliage of the Heartleaf Philodendron is almost mesmerizing. The solid green, heart-shaped leaves give off a tropical and soothing vibe. This leafy plant is a popular houseplant for good reason — it’s very easy to grow. Learn more about Heartleaf Philodendron care and how to help this beauty look its best.

Close to Your Heart

The Philodendron hederaceum is best known as Heartleaf Philodendron, but it also goes by sweetheart plant. This vining plant hails from Central America and the Caribbean. Plants in nature can reach up to 20 feet long, but houseplants typically grow about 4 feet in length. New leaves often have a bronzy hue before settling into dark green. Mature leaves are two to four inches long.

Heartleaf Philodendron Light Needs

Bright indirect sunlight is necessary for the Heartleaf Philodendron. This Philodendron does not grow quickly, but lots of indirect sunlight is vital to help it grow as quickly as possible. Direct light will burn the leaves, so hang sheer curtains or move the plant further away from the light source if you notice black or brown burn marks appearing on the foliage.

Spin the container every so often so each side receives even light. Plants in low light can become leggy or feature extended distances between leaves.

How Often to Water Heartleaf Philodendrons

Water the Heartleaf Philodendron when the top couple inches of the soil are dry. Philodendrons like moist conditions, but too much water will damage the roots. You’ll know your plant is overwatered if the leaves develop a yellow hue throughout. The foliage will curl or turn yellow at the tip when the plant is underwatered.

Soil Requirements

Give your Philodendron rich, slightly acidic soil for best results. The soil must allow drainage because wet feet are a severe problem for this plant. Most houseplant potting mixes work well, but you can always add perlite to improve drainage. Select a container with a drainage hole so excess water can escape.

Temperature Needs

The Heartleaf Philodendron is a tropical plant, so it prefers warm temperatures. Most homes are at a comfortable temperature but keep this leafy beauty away from drafts and heating and cooling vents. Temperatures between 65° and 85° F are best.

Anything less than 60° F or greater than 85° is trouble for this Philodendron, so if you bring your plant outdoors for the summer, monitor the temperature.

Heartleaf Humidity Needs

Most tropical plants require increased humidity, but not the Heartleaf Philodendron. Homes with 40% humidity are ideal, but slightly higher dampness levels are acceptable. Above-average humidity can cause problems with fungus, so keep this plant away from areas prone to dampness in the air.

Brown, crispy edges on the foliage indicate the humidity is too low. Grouping plants together is an easy solution to create a slight increase in humidity, or use a humidifier if the plant needs more moisture. Monitor the humidity to avoid over-correcting the problem.

Heartleaf Philodendron Fertilizer Basics

Fertilize your Heartleaf Philodendron monthly during the growing season to keep the foliage coming in. Use balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and follow the instructions on the packaging. Do not fertilize dormant plants.

Philodendron Pruning Tips

Your pruning strategy depends on how you want your Philodendron to look. Trimming the stems may be necessary to allow the plant to fit your space. Cutting back the long stems will encourage more growth and create a full and dense plant. Although, if your goal is to get the stems as long as possible, put the pruning shears down.

Does Heartleaf Philodendron Bloom?

The Heartleaf Philodendron does bloom. Small, greenish-white flowers can emerge, but it’s rare for houseplants to bloom.

When to Repot Philodendron Heartleaf

Philodendrons are moderate to slow-growing plants, so repotting is only necessary every two to three years. Roots growing through drainage holes and slower than normal growth are signs your plant needs a larger container.

Philodendron Propagation

The Heartleaf Philodendron is easy to propagate via stem cuttings. Trim a stem section that measures several inches long and has aerial roots, also known as nodes. The aerial roots of a Heartleaf may not grow long and can appear as small nubs. Place the cut end and the nodes in water or soil.

Roots should grow in a few weeks. Keep the soil damp during this time before slowly scaling back to only watering when the top couple of inches of the soil are dry. Water-propagated cuttings can be moved to potting mix when the roots are at least one inch long. Keep the soil consistently damp for the first week before getting the plant onto a regular watering routine.

Is Heartleaf Philodendron Pet Safe?

Heartleaf Philodendron plants are not safe to have around pets. Philodendrons contain insoluble calcium oxalates. Consuming the plant can cause pain, irritation, and swelling of the mouth and tongue. Cats and dogs that have eaten or chewed any part of a Philodendron may experience difficulty swallowing, excessive drooling, or vomiting.

Heartleaf Philodendron Styling Tips

Plant styling the Heartleaf Philodendron is easy because this leafy plant is all about the mono-color foliage and long stems. This Philodendron is a plant that looks amazing suspended in a textured macrame hanger or on a shelf so that the stems can hang down. Place a moss pole or trellis in the container and train the stems to climb for an upright look that is similar to how the plant appears in nature.