Philodendron Domesticum Care and Propagation Tips

This article explores the charming Philodendron Domesticum. It is also known as Spadeleaf Philodendron or Burgundy Philodendron. The Philodendron is part of a family of about 450 beautiful climbing plants. It comes from tropical America.

What Makes Philodendron Domesticum Special?

For your Domesticum to thrive, it needs indirect light and high humidity. It prefers temperatures between 12 to 26 degrees Celsius. You’ll notice a hint of purple on the stems and leaf edges. This gives the Burgundy Philodendron a unique charm. Its glossy leaves make it a delightful decorative addition to any space.

Many enjoy using it for decoration because it doesn’t have to be potted alone! You can opt for hanging baskets to enhance your room’s beauty. With lots of space, Philodendron Domesticum loves climbing poles and walls. It adds a delightful touch of the tropics to your space, especially with proper lighting.

The plant is beautiful. It’s also a great air purifier. It removes harmful chemicals from the air. Apart from these benefits. Philodendron Domesticum has a strong root system. It is known for needing little care.

Basic Care for Philodendron Domesticum

Soil & Watering

Philodendron thrives in nutrient-rich, well-draining soil with high organic content. A potting mix with sphagnum moss and a acidic pH level of 5.0 to 6.0 is ideal. Water the soil to balance its moisture. Water it . Let the soil dry between waterings to avoid root rot.

Light

The Philodendron Domesticum prefers low to medium light. It avoids direct sunlight. Sunlight can cause leaf yellowing or low-light elongation.

Temperature

Keep temperatures mild. They should stay between 12 and 26 degrees Celsius. This range is like its South American origins. Avoid extreme cold or hot conditions that may harm your Domesticum.

Humidity

Adequate humidity is essential. Use methods like gravel-filled trays or misting to keep humidity high. This is especially important in drier seasons.

Fertilization

Regular fertilization with slow-release or liquid fertilizers helps keep the plant healthy. It also keeps it glossy. Avoid over-fertilization, which can harm growth.

Repotting

As a fast-growing plant, trim and repot when necessary. Follow proper repotting steps to ensure your Philodendron Domesticum’s continued growth and health.

Pruning

While not frequent, pruning can help maintain your plant’s appearance. Be cautious of the plant’s toxic sap and use proper tools and gloves when pruning.

Follow these care tips. They will keep your Philodendron Domesticum thriving and beautiful inside.

Propagating Philodendron Domesticum

Growing New Plants

• You can create more Philodendron Domesticum plants by using stem cuttings. Here’s how:

• Cut a stem at a leaf node, place it in soil or water, and watch it grow roots.

• For water propagation, place the cutting in a jar of water and wait for roots to sprout.

• If using soil, dip the stem in rooting hormone, plant it in moist soil, and support it with a stake.

• Check for root growth by tugging gently on the stem. Once roots appear, transfer the plant to a bigger pot.

Air Layering:

• To encourage new growth while keeping the plant connected to the parent, try air layering.

• Find bud eyes on the stem. Wrap them in moist moss and plastic. Then, mist them often to grow roots.

Flowering & Growth

Philodendron Domesticum rarely blooms, usually around 20 years old. It can grow up to 2.5 meters tall with large spade-shaped leaves.

Common Plant Issues

Fungal Infections

To prevent fungus, improve air flow around the plant. Also, avoid crowding with other plants

Erwinia Blight

Minimize watering and avoid over-fertilization to control this fatal disease.

Leaf Spot Diseases

Prevent bacterial spread by avoiding excess watering and treating with copper-based fungicides.

Pseudomonas Xanthomonas Leaf Spot

Xanthomonas bacteria attack Philodendron Domesticum through wounds, pores, and stomata beneath the leaf surface. This results in the Philodendron leaves turning yellow and eventually falling off. The threat of this bacterial disease emerges during very humid conditions at temperatures ranging from 21 to 30 degrees Celsius. To prevent the growth of this bacterial disease, mechanical injuries should be avoided to reduce the available wounds for its growth.

We recommend watering your Domesticum in the mid-morning to help the plant dry faster. This way, the transmission medium is removed where bacteria thrive.

Whiteflies

If Philodendron Domesticum is kept above the optimal temperature, it can become a host for the notorious plant-sucking pests – whiteflies. These are soft-bodied wingless insects that extract sap from the plant by sucking on its stems.

If whiteflies become too numerous, they can cause leaves to yellow and curl. To prevent their growth, apply alcohol to the infected areas. Avoid excessive watering or over-fertilizing the plant as humidity helps whiteflies reproduce.

Aphids

Aphid infestations can quickly develop in indoor plants like Domesticum. Since these insects are highly mobile, it is advisable to isolate infested Philodendron Domesticum from other plants to prevent their spread.

Aphids typically attack newly growing parts of Domesticum. This causes the new foliage to appear sickly and stunted. If the infestation worsens, leaves may begin to fall.

To prevent further growth of these insects, you can use readily available insecticides in the market. Alternatively, you can make your own by mixing one teaspoon of detergent into water and spraying it on the plant.

Neem oil is another effective treatment due to its fungicidal and insecticidal properties. According to the Environmental Protection Association, neem oil is safe for use on ornamental plants.

Tips for Caring for Philodendron Domesticum

Here are some essential tips to keep in mind for the healthy care of your Philodendron:

• Keep stress factors under control by avoiding overwatering or underwatering.
• Properly drain excess water by placing the plant in a well-draining pot.
• Water Philodendron from the bottom.
• Perform annual repotting in an appropriately sized container.
• Fertilize the plant actively every two weeks.
• Isolate sick Philodendrons by observing the first signs or symptoms.

FAQs

Is Philodendron Domesticum Toxic?

Yes, it can be harmful if ingested by pets or humans due to calcium oxalate in its leaves.

Is Pothos Related to Philodendron?

While similar in appearance, Pothos has distinct differences from Philodendron Domesticum.

Ideal Light for Domesticum?

Moderate light intensity suits this tropical plant best.

In Summary

Philodendron Domesticum is a lovely addition to any space, easy to care for and propagate. It has glossy leaves. It is adaptable. These traits make it a favorite for both new and experienced plant lovers.