Introduction
The Philodendron Jungle Boogie is a stunning tropical plant known for its beautiful foliage. This Philodendron variety has large, deeply lobed leaves that look almost like oak leaves. The leaves emerge with a reddish tint before maturing to a deep green. Mature leaves can grow over 1 foot long!
With its big, shapely leaves on vining stems, the Jungle Boogie makes a fabulous indoor plant. It adds drama and interest to any space. However, there are some key things to know about caring for this Philodendron variety to keep it healthy and looking its best.
The Philodendron Family
Philodendrons are a diverse group within the Araceae plant family, with over 400 species. They naturally grow in tropical regions of the Americas. These plants are distinguished by their large, shapely leaves and their vining growth habit.
Philodendrons contain calcium oxalate crystals in their tissues, making them toxic to humans and pets if ingested. However, they are very popular houseplants thanks to their easy care requirements.
There are two main types of philodendrons:
- Vining philodendrons – These grow upright at first, then trail or climb with aerial roots. Heartleaf philodendron is a classic example.
- Non-climbing philodendrons – These form a bushy shrub-like shape. Examples include Congo Rojo and Prince of Orange.
Philodendrons are sometimes confused with pothos plants, but pothos have thicker, waxy leaves.
Characteristics of Philodendron Jungle Boogie
The Philodendron Jungle Boogie is one of over 200 vining philodendron varieties. Here are its key features:
- Leaves – Large, deeply lobed leaves emerge reddish-bronze before darkening to forest green. Mature leaves reach 12-16 inches long.
- Stems – Long, flexible, vining stems that can reach 4-6 feet. Aerial roots grow from nodes.
- Flowers – Rare when grown as a houseplant. Produces a green spathe and spadix.
- Native to – Colombia and Peru in South America.
- Growth – Quickly growing and vining. Can be trained up a moss pole or allowed to trail.
- Size – Grows 3-5 feet tall and 2-4 feet wide.
- Cultivars – Similar cultivars include Hilo Beauty, Tornado, and Mini Jungle Boogie. The Jungle Boogie makes a dramatic addition to indoor plant displays with its huge lobed leaves on trailing stems. It’s an eye-catching philodendron variety for both homes and offices.
Philodendron species are the most sought after by aroid plant lovers
Why Choose Philodendron Jungle Boogie?
Here are some top reasons to consider adding a Jungle Boogie philodendron to your indoor plant collection:
Unique Lobed Foliage
The Jungle Boogie’s enormous leaves are its standout feature. Few other indoor plants can match its huge, deeply lobed leaves that can reach over a foot long! The leaf shape gives it a prehistoric, jungle look.
Easy Care
Like others in the philodendron family, the Jungle Boogie is quite easy going when it comes to care. It handles low light and irregular watering with aplomb. This makes it a great choice for beginners.
Fast Growing
This philodendron is a fast grower, quickly gaining length. Growth can be directed up a support or allowed to trail attractively. The quick growth means you’ll see results fast.
Dramatic Appearance
With its jungle-like leaves on long vining stems, the Jungle Boogie makes a bold statement in any indoor space. It brings the lushness of the tropics indoors.
Filters Air
The large leaves have many pores that absorb indoor pollutants like formaldehyde. This makes the plant an air purifier.
The Jungle Boogie’s tropical look and ease of care make it an excellent choice to liven up indoor spaces. It’s sure to become a prized houseplant!
Caring for Your Philodendron Jungle Boogie
Giving your Jungle Boogie philodendron the proper care will keep it growing strongly. Here are the key care tips it needs:
Sunlight
The Jungle Boogie thrives in bright, indirect light indoors. An east or west-facing window is ideal. Provide at least 4 hours of sunlight daily. Low light will cause sparse, small leaves. Direct sun scorches the leaves.
Watering
Water whenever the top inch of soil is dry. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, then dump out excess water in the saucer. The soil should not stay soggy. Allow it to mostly dry out between waterings. Leaves will droop and curl when thirsty.
Temperature
Average room temperatures between 60°F-80°F suit it well. Avoid cold drafts. High heat causes leaf scorching.
Humidity
High humidity mimics this plant’s tropical origins. Ideal levels are 60-70%. Use a humidifier or pebble tray to increase moisture near the plant.
Soil
Use a well-draining potting mix, or create a blend of peat moss, compost, and perlite. Good drainage prevents root rot. To learn more about the best soil mixtures for Philodendrons, you can refer to our extensive guide
Fertilizer
Fertilize monthly in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half. Stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Support
Provide a moss pole or trellis for the vining stems to climb. Tie stems loosely in place as needed. Or, allow trailing growth.
Other popular plants like Epipremnum, Monstera, and Syngonium also benefit from similar supportive care techniques.
Place your Jungle Boogie in a bright location away from direct sun. Water when the top inch of soil is dry and fertilize monthly during the growing season. Average room humidity and temperatures keep it happy!
Common Issues and Solutions
Philodendron Jungle Boogie is quite robust, but can encounter a few issues. Here are some potential problems and how to fix them:
Drooping leaves
If the leaves start drooping, it likely needs more water. Water thoroughly until it drains out the bottom. Leaves will perk up after a day or two.
Sparse leaves
Insufficient light causes sparse growth with small leaves. Move to a brighter location with 4+ hours of indirect sun daily. New growth will be fuller.
Leaf scorch
Brown crispy edges on the leaves are a sign of too much direct sun. Move out of direct sun into bright, indirect light instead. Prevent hot sun from hitting the leaves.
Leaf spots
Fungal or bacterial diseases can cause brown spots on the leaves. Cut off affected leaves. Improve air circulation and avoid wetting the leaves when watering.
Root rot
Overwatering leads to root rot, where roots are dark, mushy, and foul-smelling. Repot in fresh soil and cut away dead roots. Allow soil to dry out more between waterings.
Pests
Check for common houseplant pests like spider mites, aphids, or scale. Wipe leaves with soapy water or neem oil. Remove heavily infested leaves. Promote plant health with proper care. To understand how to effectively manage pests and diseases in your Philodendron, see our comprehensive care tips
Plants like Homalomena, Colocasia, Dischidia, Fern (Platycerium), Zamioculcas zamiifolia – ZZ plant, and Sansevieria can also encounter similar issues and benefit from the same care solutions.
With the right growing conditions and care, the Jungle Boogie will thrive and encounter few issues. Monitor closely for any problems and address them promptly.
Using Philodendron Jungle Boogie in Home Decor
With its huge, lobed leaves and vining habit, the Jungle Boogie philodendron makes a dramatic statement in indoor decor. Here are some ways to showcase this plant:
Focal Point
Place a Jungle Boogie in a prominent spot where its leaves can steal the show. Allow it to trail over a table or shelf for maximum impact.
Room Divider
Situate on one side of a room divider for visual interest. Or, let stems wander through a bookshelf divider.
Hanging Basket
Display in a hanging basket suspended where the long stems can trail down. The suspended foliage makes a striking effect.
Shelves
Set on a plant stand or bookshelves. Let the vines wander along the shelves, adding a tropical accent.
Moss Pole
Train up a moss pole or coconut fiber totem. Tie stems in place as needed. This shows off the huge leaves at their best.
Window Box
Sit in a window box or plant hanger. Allow the stems to spill over attractively.
Play around with different ways to include a Jungle Boogie in your home. Let its wild foliage make a design statement!
Conclusion
With its enormous lobed leaves and tropical vining growth, Philodendron Jungle Boogie brings drama to any indoor space. This easy-care philodendron variety quickly grows into an impressive specimen if given the right care and conditions. Provide bright, indirect light, humid air, average room temperatures, and well-draining soil for your Jungle Boogie to thrive. Allow it to trail or train it up a support to show off those monster leaves! Avoid overwatering and direct sun which can cause issues. Give this exotic tropical plant a try and enjoy its bold, jungle-like foliage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big do Philodendron Jungle Boogie get?
The Jungle Boogie philodendron can grow 3-5 feet tall and 2-4 feet wide. Its leaves reach 12-16 inches in length when mature. It’s a large, vining philodendron variety.
Is Jungle Boogie rare?
The Jungle Boogie philodendron is not rare, but it is an uncommon variety that must be sought out at specialty plant stores or online plant retailers. It is harder to find than more common heartleaf philodendrons.
How do you prune Jungle Boogie?
Prune off any dead, damaged, or unsightly growth as needed to maintain an attractive appearance. To limit size, cut back leggy stems above a node. Avoid over-pruning, as it can stunt growth.
What is the best support for Jungle Boogie?
A moss pole or coconut fiber totem provides excellent support for the vining stems to climb. Alternatively, use a trellis. Tie stems loosely in place periodically as needed.
Is Jungle Boogie toxic?
Yes, philodendrons contain calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation, swelling, and digestive issues if leaves or stems are eaten. Keep away from children and pets and avoid ingesting any part of the plant.