Silver Sword Philodendron – Indoor Plants

Silver Sword Philodendron (Philodendron hastatum) is an attractive, evergreen ornamental, climber houseplant. It has blue-tinged or silvery green, arrow-shaped, glossy leaves that have an upward climbing growth habit. According to the NASA Clean Air Study, the Philodendron hastatum filters indoor air pollution, particularly formaldehyde. It is toxic to dogs, cats. So keep it away from your pets and children.

Scientific classification:

Family: Araceae
Genus: Philodendron
Species: P. hastatum
Scientific Name: Philodendron hastatum K.Koch & Sello
Common Name: Silver Sword Philodendron
Synonyms: Philodendron elongatum, Philodendron hastifolium, Philodendron domesticum

How to grow and maintain Silver Sword Philodendron

Light

It thrives best in bright indirect sunlight. Never put your philodendron plant in direct sun. Also, it can survive in low light conditions.

Soil

It grows well in well-drained sandy soil. A mix of 2 parts peat and 1 part perlite and maybe a bit of added sand is a good choice.

Temperature

It requires a minimum temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit to 80 degrees Fahrenheit / 24 degrees Celsius to 27 degrees Celsius during the daytime and above 55 degrees Fahrenheit (13ºC) at night.

Water

Water regularly, during spring through fall. Keep soil moist but not soggy. Keep soil moist but not soggy. During the winter season, reduce watering and only water the plant when the top inch of soil dries out between each watering.

Fertilizer

Fertilize monthly spring through fall with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half.

Propagation

It can be easily propagated stem tip cuttings. Take stem tip cuttings in spring or early summer. It roots easily when the stem placed in water or moist soil.

Humidity

Tolerant of dry air, but likes humidity. Mist foliage occasionally. Brown leaf tips are a side effect of dry air.

Pests and Diseases

It has no serious pest or disease problems. The plant may be attacked by pests such as scale insects.