Silver-marbled climbing philodendron from South America, develops larger leaves with proper support

This silver marbling gives Philodendron brandtianum its unique appearance. The leaves can grow up to 15-30 cm long. As the plant matures, the leaves can become elongated instead of heart-shaped. The leaves only mature when the plant receives proper plant support to climb on.

The young leaves have beautiful white areas and spots that can appear metallic silver in the right light. This appearance is not due to white pigmentation or lack of chlorophyll, but to air pockets under the epidermis.  

Philodendron brandtianum is most known in its young stage. But like most other Philodendron varieties, it grows much larger when allowed to climb. In indoor cultivation, however, the leaves usually do not grow larger than about 30 cm. If the plant is grown hanging, the leaves usually do not grow larger than 15 cm.

Despite its exotic appearance, the plant is relatively easy to care for, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts. 

Botanical Description.

Philodendron brandtianum grows as a hemiepiphytic climber in Brazil, Bolivia, and Colombia at altitudes up to approximately 1500 meters. 

Care

As a young plant, it grows along the ground until it finds something to climb, usually a tree. At this stage, it is small, thrives with very little light, and has its typical silver-patterned leaves. Once it has found a tree, it begins to climb upwards, attaching itself with aerial roots. From then on, it needs more light and less humidity.

This species only develops its adult leaves if it has both sufficient light and a support to climb on. In nature, this is usually a tree trunk, but in cultivation, it can also be another relatively rough surface, such as a wooden plank or plant support.

The plant comes from a tropical climate and thrives best in tropical temperatures and high humidity. However, it is also very tolerant of "normal" conditions in an apartment.

The soil should never dry out completely, but it must absolutely not be soggy for an extended period, as this can damage the roots! It is therefore better to water a little less and allow at least the surface to dry out between waterings.

The plant can be easily propagated by stem cuttings, making it easy to spread and share this beautiful plant. Buy Philodendron brandtianum online!