Lobed Philodendron from South America with palm-like leaves

Philodendron elegans is a lobed philodendron from Colombia and Brazil, scientifically described in 1913 and belonging to the Philodendron section Polytomium. This is an epiphytic climber that either creeps along the ground or grows upright to climb the nearest tree.

The deeply lobed leaves are pinnatifid, meaning they are incised to the midrib, with a structure reminiscent of a palm leaf. This has earned the plant the nicknames "Skeleton Aroid" or "Skeleton Key Philodendron".

The leaves are almost leathery and moderately glossy, growing to about 53 centimeters long and can be bicolor with two shades of green on the upper side. The petioles are round, medium green, and have a purple ring at the top.

Botanical Description

Philodendron elegans is sometimes confused with similar species such as Philodendron radiatum and Philodendron tortum. According to aroid botanist Dr. Thomas Croat, P. radiatum and P. elegans are distinct species, although similar. P. elegans is smaller, has fewer lobes, and dries darker. Most species misidentified as P. elegans have much finer lobes.

Care

Thrives in bright, indirect light. Water when the soil has dried slightly. Requires high humidity and well-draining, airy soil. Provide climbing support such as a moss pole for optimal leaf development. Ideal temperature 18-26 degrees Celsius.

Fertilize monthly during the growing season. Buy Philodendron elegans online!