Philodendron Squamiferum

Philodendron Squamiferum, also known as the hairy-leaved Philodendron, is an epiphytic aroid that originates from Central America, French Guyana, Suriname, and Brazil.

Propagation:

This plant will propagate in both water and soil. Water propagation is my preference because you can see things happen as it grows!

Place your cutting in a jar/vase/tube of room temperature water. Make sure the nodes (small bumps on the plant) are submerged in the water.
Keep it somewhere that matches the light and temperature specifications shared below. 

When propagating plants, it’s key to keep the humidity UP while the plants root. Higher humidity levels help boost the propagation process.

Change out the water once a week or when it looks murky, and top it up when needed. Fresh water will help oxygenate the cutting and prevent algae build-up.

Roots should start to develop within 3-4 weeks. 

Pot the plant up when the roots are approximately 5cm long.

View our propagation guide for more info!

Lighting:

It will thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct contact with the sun as this can burn the leaves. 
In its natural habitat, Philodendron Squamiferum latch onto and grow up trees, so it is used to limited light.

Temperature:

The Squamiferum will thrive in environments with a temperature between 16-24℃. 

Humidity:

This plant can grow with average room humidity. 40% or more is good.

Potting:

It is a climber so you can use a moss pole or trellis to facilitate its growth. As with most Philodendron, it’s important to use a well-draining potting mix that contains bark and perlite.
This plant should also be potted up in a pot that has drainage holes at the bottom. This plant does not like to be rootbound, so aim to re-pot it every 2-3 years. 

Watering:

Water thoroughly to mimic tropical jungle conditions and allow the water to drain through properly before returning the plant to its decorative pot. This plant appreciates regular watering, but make sure you don’t overwater it (as it is quite sensitive). 

Invest in a moisture meter to help you monitor the levels of moisture in the soil so that you can only water it as needed.

Fertilising:

As with most tropical plants, you should feed this plant regularly during the growing season. Aim to feed it every second week.

I use Nitrosol because it doesn’t have a fishy smell.

Other information:

Under the right conditions, Squamiferum can produce the most beautiful white flowers.

Cleaning your leaves regularly will help prevent any pests. Rosecare Spray or other alternatives can be applied if you come into contact with any pests.