Philodendron Micans Care

The Philodendron Micans has good looks and a laid-back attitude, making it an easy houseplant to grow. What’s not to love about its velvety, heart-shaped foliage and trailing vines? The Micans experienced a surge in popularity several years ago, deservedly so, but this increased demand made it hard to track this beauty down. While the Philodendron Micans is still popular, it is easier to find this easy-care houseplant now. Check a local plant store if you really want to add one to your collection. Here’s everything you need to know about Philodendron Micans care.

Plant Details

The Philodendron Micans is a cultivar of the Heartleaf Philodendron or Philodendron hederaceum. This plant has a vining growth habit, and houseplants often produce vines that measure several feet long. The foliage is a show-stopper and what makes this plant so beloved and sought-after. Like all vining Philodendrons, the Micans have heart-shaped leaves, but the foliage has a velvet-like texture and an iridescent glow. The leaves can be a deep emerald hue or a bronzy shimmer, depending on the light.

Philodendron Micans Light Needs

Give the Philodendron Micans medium to bright indirect sunlight. Plants that receive bright sunlight will grow more quickly, but plants in medium light will still look fantastic and thrive. Philodendrons can become leggy if they don’t receive enough light, so move the plant to a brighter spot if you notice a sizable gap between leaves.

Avoid direct sunlight, which will burn the delicate foliage. Sunburn appears are black or brown spots within the leaf.

How Often to Water Philodendron Micans

Give the plant a drink when the top few inches of potting mix are dry. The Micans prefer to dry out somewhat between watering but do not like extremes. Too dry and too wet conditions are problematic. Feel the soil and water when necessary. Saturate the soil when it is time to water until excess water drains through the pot.

The plant will tell you if the watering routine is not hitting the mark. An overwatered plant will have yellow leaf tips. Drooping or curling leaves occur when the plant is too dry.

Best Soil for Philodendrons

Rich, acidic, well-drained potting mix is best for Philodendron Micans care. Most ready-made general potting mixes are fine, but add some perlite to improve drainage. Philodendrons have zero tolerance for wet feet.

Temperature for Philodendron Micans

Average household temperature is acceptable and comfortable for these tropical plants. Temperature swings can be offputting, so keep the Micans away from drafty spaces, like near windows and exterior doors, especially during the winter.

The Philodendron Micans will appreciate a spot on a covered porch or patio during the summer but monitor the temperature. Anything below 55° F will damage the lovely leaves, so make sure the plant is inside if the temperature is forecast to drop.

Philodendron Micans Humidity Needs

Philodendrons have a well-earned reputation for being easy houseplants, which is entirely accurate regarding humidity. The plant will thrive and be happy in average humidity, although increased humidity will help this plant look amazing and grow as quickly as possible.

Low humidity is not good and can cause the leaves to dry out along the edges. Increase the dampness in the air with a humidifier or a pebble tray with water if the plant shows signs of dry air damage.

Philodendron Micans Fertilizer

Philodendrons are not heavy feeders, especially if they have rich soil, but routine applications of plant food support new growth. Feed the Philodendron Micans using a balanced fertilizer once per month during the growing season. Always water the plant before applying fertilizer to protect the roots.

Philodendron Pruning Tips

Remove the occasional dead or damaged leaf. Prune Philodendron Micans in the spring if you need to maintain the size. Remember to save those cuttings to propagate!

Does the Micans Bloom?

Philodendrons in nature bloom with the proper conditions, but houseplants seldom set flowers. Don’t be disappointed that you’ll probably never see the plant bloom because the flowers are not very showy, especially compared to the stunning foliage.

When to Repot Philodendron Micans

With proper care, the Philodendron Micans is a fast-growing plant that will need to be repotted every one to two years. The plant will let you know when it’s time to repot. Try to repot in the spring, at the beginning of the growing season. Select a new container one to two inches larger and provide fresh potting mix.

Philodendron Micans Propagation

Philodendrons are easy to propagate, which is good news since it is very likely your friends or family will want their own Micans after they see yours. Propagate Philodendrons via stem cuttings. Each cutting should be several inches long and have aerial roots and at least a couple of leaves.

Place the cutting in a jar or container filled with water so the nodes or aerial roots are submerged. Roots will grow in a few weeks. The cutting can be transplanted into a well-draining potting mix when the roots are a couple of inches long. Keep the soil damp for the first few weeks to ease the transition before settling into a suitable watering routine for an established plant.

Are Philodendrons Pet Safe?

All Philodendron plants contain calcium oxalate crystals, making them dangerous to pets and humans. Eating the foliage can cause swelling and discomfort in the mouth and throat, excessive drooling, and vomiting. Be careful before bringing a Philodendron home if you have cats or dogs.

Philodendron Micans Styling Tips

Let the stems trail or climb because the Philodendron Micans can do it all. A hanger or tall shelf lets the stems cascade. Give this Philodendron a trellis or moss pole to create a verticle foliage display. Gently secure the vines to a support to get them started climbing.