HORSEHEAD PHILODENDRON

PHILODENDRON BIPINNATIFIDUM

The horsehead philodendron is the most dramatic of this group of plants. Its dark green, divided leaves are generous in size and make an instant impact in a room. If given the right conditions and environment, this non-climbing philodendron will soon create a truly magnificent houseplant.

HEIGHT 10ft (3m)

SPREAD 10ft (3m)

FLOWERS Insignificant

FOLIAGE Dark green, divided

LIGHT Filtered sun

TEMPERATURE 61–75°F (16–24°C)

CARE Easy

PLACE OF ORIGIN South America

WARNING! Sap is toxic; gloves required

CARE

This plant, also known as the fiddle-leaf philodendron, takes up a significant amount of space and, given a large room with filtered light, will quickly become a showstopper in your home. In its native habitat, the plant grows as a self-supporting tree and sends down long aerial roots that act as props and help the plant to hold its own weight. As it can become top-heavy when mature, plant it in a heavy container filled with enriched potting mix. Keep barely moist throughout spring and feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every month. Reduce the watering during the winter months.

The horsehead philodendron enjoys a moderately humid atmosphere, so a generous misting of the foliage will be beneficial, as will wiping the leaves with a damp cloth to ensure the plant stays healthy and puts on its best display.

New leaves of horsehead philodendron are pale green until they fully mature.

PROBLEM SOLVING If your mature plant becomes too big, prune it in spring by removing leaves from the top and sides, as needed. Make the cut right against the main stem. Wear gloves for this task as the sap is toxic.

As this plant is large, it’s not unusual for the leaves to be damaged by people passing—remove any damaged foliage.

DISPLAY

This dramatic plant is as wide as it is tall, so it can be used as an effective room divider or a living screen to break up an open-plan room. To create an instant jungle scene, position your horsehead philodendron with other plants that enjoy filtered light and moderate humidity. The ideal partners are the Swiss cheese plant and climbing sweetheart plant. For an added jungle look, consider putting the plant pots into decorative bamboo or rattan over-containers.