We won’t explore the common Philodendron types here. Instead, we’ll explore the captivating world of Philodendron Rugosum. It’s also known as the Pigskin Philodendron. This amazing plant comes from the lush rainforests of Ecuador. It thrives in the high Andes Mountains at elevations from 3,000 to 5,000 feet.
If you’re considering adding this rare gem to your plant collection, keep reading. We’ve compiled in-depth information. We also have expert care tips. They will help you create the ideal environment for its growth and well-being.
What is Philodendron Rugosum?
Scientists only documented it in 1983. It earned its unique nickname. People called it the Pigskin Philodendron due to its leaf’s texture and shape. The leaves are thick and rugged, like pigskin. They have wrinkles where they attach to the stem. This creates an intriguing resemblance to pig ears. The term “Rugosum” originates from the Italian word “ruga,” which means “wrinkle.””
Philodendrons have a reputation for being adaptable. So, it’s no surprise. They thrive as epiphytes or hemiepiphytes in rainforest trees. Some reports even suggest they can grow on rocky surfaces. This is like epiphytes. They can also grow in conventional soil. But, it’s crucial to emphasize the precarious status of Philodendron Rugosum. It’s endangered. This highlights the great importance of conserving them in their natural habitat. It also means cultivating them.
This plant is from the tropical rainforests of Ecuador. It thrives in the high Andes Mountains, at altitudes over 900 meters. Philodendron Rugosum is also known as Philodendron Naugahyde or Philodendron Pigskin. This is due to its unique leaf structure. Its leaves are thick and wavy. They have coarse lines. These lines look like pigskin or, , pig ears.
Philodendron Rugosum is rare in the market. But, it adapts to its surroundings. It thrives as an epiphyte by attaching to rocks or trees.
Furthermore, this captivating plant can also flourish as a hemiepiphyte. It latches onto trees. It extends aerial roots to the ground until it envelops its host tree. This distinctive growth behavior adds to its charm and allure.
Philodendron Rugosum Care Guide
Soil
Like most Philodendron types, Rugosum thrives in well-draining soil. This prevents waterlogging. An ideal potting mix consists of one part bark, one part Malang sand, and one part compost or humus.
The bark provides roots with a place to cling, mimicking their natural environment. For better air and a acidic to neutral pH, add some charcoal or fern chips. If you have sphagnum peat moss, it’s a suitable addition as well.
Light
Philodendron Rugosum flourishes in bright indirect light and dappled shade. While it tolerates bright indirect light, it encourages faster growth and larger leaves.
Place it near an east-facing window or away from a south-facing one. Keep in mind that this plant doesn’t thrive in low light conditions and may exhibit slow growth.
Water
Here’s where Rugosum differs from most other Philodendrons. It likes to keep soil moist. Avoid letting the top few centimeters of soil dry out completely. Getting the right watering balance can be a bit hard. But, it’s essential to avoid overwatering.
If your Philodendron Rugosum has drooping leaves, it might be a sign of either too much or too little water.
Temperature
Being a tropical plant, Philodendron Rugosum is not cold-tolerant. It can’t survive freezing temperatures. It will suffer frost damage if cold for too long.
The best temperature for this plant is 12 to 30 degrees Celsius (54-86 degrees Fahrenheit). Temperatures above this range can lead to scorching. Temps below it may make the leaves turn yellow and drop. In the tropics, you can grow it outside. But, in milder places, keep it inside in winter. Keep it away from windows and drafts.
Humidity
Philodendron Rugosum is very hardy. It can handle the normal humidity in most homes. But, increasing humidity can encourage it to develop rich, dark green leaves. Higher humidity levels result in larger leaves. The plant appreciates occasional misting and benefits from a room humidifier.
Fertilizing
During the growing season (monthly), fertilize your Philodendron Rugosum every two weeks. You can use half-strength liquid fertilizer for foliage plants. Or, you can use your preferred organic fertilizer. To prevent fertilizer burn, it’s a common practice to fertilize after watering.
How to Propagate Philodendron Rugosum?
You can propagate Philodendron Rugosum in many ways. These include division, stem cuttings, air layering, and soil layering. But, plant enthusiasts favor stem cutting. You can do it in water or soil.
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Selecting a Cutting: Choose a healthy branch to cut, ensuring it’s below a leaf node. If possible, include one or two aerial roots. They will become regular roots in water or soil.
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For soil propagation, use sphagnum moss to make a potting mix. Moisten the mix before planting the cutting. Make sure to cover the leaf node.
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When propagating in water, use a large container. It should be big enough to immerse the cutting and cover the leaf node.
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Prune the leaves before planting. Keep only the top two. This saves energy and helps roots grow.
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Light and Care: Place the cutting in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight and drafts. Maintain consistent soil moisture for soil propagation.
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Checking for Rooting: After a few weeks, check for signs of root development. In water, you’ll see roots several centimeters long. The soil anchors the cutting. Or, you notice new growth. Then, you can pot it into soil. It will become a propagated plant.
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Consider planting many cuttings together for a fuller, lush look. Do this if you like it.
Growth
Under ideal conditions, Philodendron Rugosum can reach heights of 6 to 15 feet. It grows by creeping. It benefits from support structures, like moss poles, to reach its full potential. Mist or water moss poles. This gives their aerial roots something to absorb. It copies their natural habitat.
Repotting
Philodendrons can grow , so check for the need to repot. If you see roots protruding from drainage holes or filling the pot, it’s time to repot. Avoid letting the roots fill the pot . Fixing this issue can be hard for the plant.
Common Issues with Philodendron Rugosum
You may encounter common problems when growing Philodendron Rugosum. These include spider mites, whiteflies, and root rot. Here’s how to address and prevent these issues:
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