Roberto Burle Marx named Philodendron Burle Marx. He was an architect known for adding native plants to modern landscapes. This Philodendron shows the beauty of low tropical shrubs. Its leaves are rich in texture and heart-shaped. Its amazing adaptability has made this Philodendron variant a favorite ornamental plant. Plant enthusiasts love it.
This is especially true for the Burle Marx variegata variant. It commands a higher price because of its unique look. This plant celebrates the legacy of an innovative architect. It also shows the diversity and adaptability of tropical plants. It is a prized addition for collectors and gardeners. They seek both beauty and a piece of horticultural history.
Caring for Philodendron Billietiae
Philodendron Burle Marx Variegata
Size & Growth Characteristics
The Philodendron Burle Marx is also called “philo brekele.” It is a small plant that usually grows to about 60 cm (24 inches) tall. In terms of width, the “brekele” can spread between 60 to 120 cm (24 to 47 inches), showcasing its moderate growth habit.
Lighting Requirements
Like many other plants in this blog, the Philodendron Burle Marx grows well in bright, indirect light. It can live in dim light. But, to flourish, it needs the right amount of indirect sunlight.
Sunlight can damage the plant. It can cause black spots on the leaves, darkening, or even burns on the foliage. Create the perfect spot for your plant. It should get ample natural light but not direct sunlight. Placing your plant near north or east-facing windows is ideal.
Watering Guidelines
When watering the Philodendron Burle Marx, use the general method for most Philodendrons. The main goal is to keep the soil moist. You must avoid both overwatering and letting the soil dry out. Overwatering can lead to various plant diseases and root rot.
But, watering needs vary with the seasons. Water your plant during the dry season, keeping the soil moist. During the rainy season, allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil Preferences
The Philodendron Burle Marx prefers well-draining soil. This soil type can stop too much moisture. It can shed excess water through drainage at the bottom of the pot. In cases of overwatering, the water becomes stagnant. It blocks oxygen from reaching the roots. A lack of oxygen can cause root rot.
The first sign of root rot is a significant change in color: roots turn dark brown or black. Another indicator is a distinctive rotten smell. To prevent overwatering’s harms, use sphagnum moss or a 100% peat-perlite mix. While providing perfect aeration, this soil also retains moisture for your Philodendron.
Instead, avoid clay and other dense soils. They do not hold the water your plant needs to stay hydrated. Aim for acidic to acidic soil, ensuring the pH level of your soil mix is between 5.6 and 6.5.
Temperature & Humidity
The ideal temperature range for your Philodendron plants is between 16 to 24°C (61 to 75°F). Temperatures below this range can slow down your plant’s growth. If temperatures drop below 10°C (50°F), your plant will stop growing.
As a tropical plant, the Philodendron Burle Marx enjoys high humidity levels. While they can survive in low-humidity rooms, they won’t reach their full potential.
Fortunately, there are several ways to keep the air humid. This mimics the tropical climate where your plant thrives.
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Put a humidifier in the room. It is where your Philodendron is. This will increase humidity.
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Mist the leaves with a spray bottle. As the water evaporates, it creates humidity around your plant.
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Use the pebble tray method to raise indoor humidity levels. Here’s how to set it up:
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Fill a tray with pebbles.
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Pour water into the tray. Make sure the water almost reaches the top of the pebbles but does not cover them.
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Put your Philodendron on the pebbles. They will let the evaporating air benefit your plant.
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Fertilization
To support your Philodendron’s growth, use a high-quality slow-release fertilizer like Dekastar. You can also use a versatile fertilizer such as NPK pearls. Regardless of your choice, it’s crucial to use a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen. Fertilize your plant once a week or every two weeks in small doses. Dissolve the fertilizer in water and pour it into the soil.
Potting & Repotting
When the roots become dense and form a tight root ball, it’s time to repot your plant. Prepare a pot that is one size larger than the current one to give your plant plenty of room to stretch and grow.
Propagating Philodendron Burle Marx
You have two options for growing your Philodendron Burle Marx. You can use stem cuttings or air layering.
Stem Cuttings
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Use sterilized pruning shears to cut a stem 5 to 10 cm long, below a node.
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Allow the cut stem to heal by leaving it in a warm room for seven to ten days. Wait until one end callouses over, or you can apply a fungicide like Antracol or Betadine.
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Prepare a porous planting mix in a pot with drainage holes at the bottom. You can use a combination of burnt rice husk, cocopeat, Malang sand, and humus soil.
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When the cutting is ready to plant, use your finger to make a hole in the soil. Place the cutting inside and cover it with soil around it.
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Place the pot in a bright area but not in direct sunlight, and remember to water and fertilize it.
Air Layering
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Use a sterilized knife to make a sharp cut 5 cm long and deep on an old or established stem.
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Insert a toothpick into the cut to keep it open and accessible.
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Use sphagnum moss around the stem cut to keep it moist.
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Wrap the moss with plastic around the stem and secure it. You can use tape to keep it in place.
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Prepare a pot with drainage holes at the bottom and fill it with a good-quality potting mix.
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Once you see roots about 10 cm long, you can separate the new plant from the parent plant below the moss.
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Remove the plastic wrap and place your new plant into the soil.
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Put the pot in a bright spot. Your Philodendron needs lots of filtered sunlight. Don’t forget to water it.
Conclusion
The Philodendron Burle Marx is decorative and easy to grow. It is adaptable and easy to propagate. These traits make it an excellent choice for indoor gardening. Watering, fertilizing, and managing humidity are key. They are key to enjoying the full beauty of this tropical shrub.
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