The Philodendron hastatum, commonly known as the Silver Sword Philodendron, is a unique and stunning houseplant. This tropical plant is known for its striking foliage – long, smooth, upright leaves with a distinct silvery-green color. Philodendrons are relatively easy to care for, but the Silver Sword Philodendron has some specific requirements. Follow these 6 secrets to help your Silver Sword Philodendron thrive indoors.
Introduction
The Philodendron hastatum is native to South America, where it grows in tropical rainforests. This vining philodendron was first discovered in the 1960s in Brazil. With its unique foliage, the Silver Sword soon became a collector’s item. Today it remains one of the most popular Philodendron varieties for indoor growing.
Characteristics
The most striking feature of the Philodendron hastatum is its foliage. The leaves emerge in a reddish-orange shade, then mature to a unique blue-green color with slight silver highlights. The leaves are long and sword-shaped, growing upright from trailing stems.
Mature Silver Sword Philodendron houseplants can reach 3-4 feet in height. The vining stems can grow quite lengthy if allowed to trail. For indoor growing, it’s best to give the plant a moss pole or trellis to climb.
This philodendron variety produces small white flowers and will bloom if happy. However, it’s grown primarily for its foliage.
Other characteristics:
- Leaf shape: Upright, smooth, sword-like
- Leaf color: Silver-green with coppery undersides
- Leaves emerge reddish-orange before maturing
- Plant height: Up to 3-4 feet
- Growth habit: Climbing vine
- Flowers: Small white blooms; rarely flowers indoors
The Silver Sword Philodendron prefers warm conditions with high humidity. Caring for this tropical plant in the home is not difficult if you provide the right growing environment.
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Why Choose a Silver Sword Philodendron
The Philodendron hastatum stands out for a few key reasons:
Unique Foliage
The silver-green, upright leaves have an iridescent glow that makes this philodendron a real showstopper. The sword-like shape is also quite distinct from heart-shaped leaves seen on other philodendrons.
Tropical Look
With its large, glossy leaves, the Silver Sword Philodendron has a very tropical appearance. This plant can lend a lush, jungle feel to any indoor space.
Easy Care
While not the absolute lowest-maintenance houseplant, the Silver Sword Philodendron has moderate water and fertilizer needs. Its climbing growth habit also helps reduce the care needed.
Air Purifying
Like many houseplants, the Philodendron hastatum naturally filters indoor air. The large leaves absorb air pollutants and release oxygen.
Climbing Vine
The vining stems add architectural interest indoors. You can train the plant up a post or trellis to highlight its trailing habit.
If you’d like a bold, eye-catching specimen plant, the Silver Sword Philodendron is certainly a great choice! Next, let’s look at exactly how to care for one at home.
Caring for Your Silver Sword Philodendron
While not fussy, the Philodendron hastatum does have some specific care requirements. Follow these tips to help your Silver Sword thrive:
Light
Bright, indirect light is ideal for the Silver Sword Philodendron. Some morning sun is fine, but avoid direct afternoon sun which can scorch leaves. In low light, the leaves lose their silvery sheen. For more details on proper light conditions and other care tips, check out our comprehensive guide
Water
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. Use room temperature water and avoid cold tap water.
Humidity
High humidity is a must for this tropical philodendron. Use a humidifier, pebble tray, or humidity tray to boost moisture levels around the plant.
Temperature
Warm temperatures from 65°F to 80°F are preferred. Avoid drafty areas and drops below 55°F.
Soil
Use a well-draining potting mix. Add in perlite or orchid bark to improve drainage.
Fertilizer
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength during the growing season. Diluted compost tea also provides nutrients.
Support
Give the vining stems a moss pole, trellis, or other vertical support to climb on. Tie or train stems to supports as needed.
Pruning
Prune off any damaged, diseased or unsightly growth as needed to maintain the plant’s appearance.
With its climbing growth habit, the Silver Sword does not necessarily need frequent repotting. Repot every 2-3 years in spring, moving up just one pot size. Take care not to damage the roots when repotting philodendrons.
Where to buy Philodendron hastatum? Benefits from importing plants from Thailand
- Shipping: Door to door shipping, fast and safe with Dragon Courier
- Biodiversity: Thailand is known for its rich biodiversity, including a wide variety of aroid species. This diversity allows importers to access a broad range of unique and exotic aroid plants.
- Quality and Health of Plants: The suitable climate helps the plants grown here stay healthy and of high quality.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Due to favorable growing conditions and efficient production methods, Thai aroid plants can often be more cost-effective compared to those from other countries.
- Access to Hybrid Varieties: Thai growers are often involved in the development of new hybrid aroid varieties, offering unique plants that may not be available from other sources.
Philodendrons species are the most sought after by aroid plant lovers
Common Issues and Solutions for Silver Sword Philodendrons
Here are some potential problems and how to address them:
Drooping leaves
This is typically a sign of underwatering. Feel the soil and water if the top few inches are dry. Drooping can also indicate cold conditions.
Tip burn
Brown crispy edges on the leaves means the plant needs more humidity. Increase humidity levels around the plant.
Few or no new leaves
Low light causes reduced growth. Move the plant closer to a bright window or use a grow light to supplement. Insufficient nutrients can also limit new leaves.
Mushy stem
A mushy, blackened stem indicates root rot from overwatering. Let the soil dry out completely between waterings. You may need to propagate remaining healthy stems.
Pests
Check for common houseplant pests like scale, mealybugs and spider mites. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth regularly and use neem oil or insecticidal soap as needed.
With the proper growing conditions and care, the Silver Sword Philodendron is not overly difficult to maintain. Pay attention to its needs, and this stunning tropical plant will thrive indoors.
Benefits of the Silver Sword Philodendron
In addition to being a visually striking houseplant, the Philodendron hastatum offers other benefits:
Air Purifying
The large, lush leaves absorb indoor air pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene. This helps purify the air in your home.
Easy Propagation
You can propagate the Silver Sword Philodendron by stem cuttings. Take a cutting with a few nodes and root it in water or moist potting mix to create new plants easily.
Pet Friendly
This philodendron variety is non-toxic for cats and dogs. It’s a good choice for pet friendly households. Keep it out of reach of curious pets who may nibble on or damage the leaves.
Gift Giving
An unusual, eye-catching houseplant like this makes a wonderful gift for any indoor plant lover. Present a young Silver Sword Philodendron in a decorative pot.
Jungle Vibes
The large green leaves bring a taste of the tropics indoors. This plant transports you to the lush jungles where it naturally grows.
Bring the jungle home and enjoy these benefits with the gorgeous Silver Sword Philodendron!
Conclusion
With its commanding presence and stunning silver-colored foliage, the Philodendron hastatum makes a standout indoor plant. While not the easiest houseplant, a Silver Sword Philodendron is certainly manageable with the right care. Allow this vining philodendron to climb up supports to showcase its uniqueness in your home. Follow the tips above to successfully grow a happy, healthy Silver Sword Philodendron houseplant.
FAQs about Growing Silver Sword Philodendrons
What are good indoor conditions for a Silver Sword Philodendron?
The Silver Sword thrives with indoor temperatures between 65-80°F, moderate to high humidity around 50-60%, and bright, indirect light.
Should you mist the leaves of a Philodendron hastatum?
Misting can help boost moisture and humidity around the plant. But take care not to get water trapped between the upright leaves, which can lead to fungal issues.
How often do you water a Silver Sword Philodendron?
Water whenever the top few inches of soil are dry. This is typically once a week or so, but will vary based on your environment. The soil should not be allowed to dry out completely.
What soil does a Philodendron hastatum need?
A well-draining potting mix amended with perlite, orchid bark, or peat moss. Good drainage is important to prevent root rot.
What causes brown leaf tips on a Silver Sword Philodendron?
Dry air and insufficient humidity often causes brown crispy tips on the leaves. Increase humidity around the plant by using a humidifier, pebble tray, or humidity tray.
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