Variegated Syngonium

Syngonium Podophyllum Albo-Variegata or “Arrowhead plant” is part of the Araceae (Aroid) family. They are native to the West Indies but are also found in Southern Mexico and the rainforests of South America. 

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 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:

This plant will thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct contact with the sun as this can burn the leaves.
This plant can start to grow ‘leggy’ (growing out long strands of stem with little to no growth) if it isn’t getting enough light. If this is the case, move the pot to a lighter area of the house and trim the excess grow back.

Temperature:

This plant is quite tolerant and will thrive in temperatures between 18 and 30℃. They can go dormant in Winter so don’t panic if they stop growing for a while.

Humidity:

It requires high humidity of 60% +. This can be achieved by using a humidifier, grouping plants together, or by growing the plant in a sealed mini greenhouse. A big cookie jar, clear tub or terrarium will do the trick!

Potting:

It is a climber meaning it likes to grow upwards as opposed to trailing down or growing along a surface. You can use a moss pole or any other supportive structure to help it grow. It’s important to use a well-draining soil mix that contains lots of bark and perlite. Also key is to use a pot that has drainage holes at the bottom.These are generally slow-growing plants that do not need to be re-potted frequently. 

Watering:

This plant is quite tolerant. Water thoroughly so that it drains through the soil, and leave it to dry out a bit before you water it again.

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 during the growing season. Aim to feed it every second week.

Other information:

Syngonium are amazing plants to grow… one of my favs!

Note that this plant is toxic to pets so be sure to keep it out of reach of your fur babies.  

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