Contents
Description
Philodendron Giganteum is a tropical plant native to South America. It is a member of the Araceae family and is known for its large, glossy leaves that can grow up to 3 feet in length. This plant is often used as an indoor houseplant due to its low maintenance requirements and attractive appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Philodendron |
Appearance
Philodendron Giganteum has large, glossy, dark green leaves that can grow up to 3 feet in length. The leaves have a heart-like shape with a pointed tip and are deeply lobed. The plant has a thick stem that can grow up to 4 inches in diameter and can reach heights of up to 10 feet. The flowers of this plant are small and insignificant, and are surrounded by a large, white, hood-like structure called a spathe.
Care Guide
- Water: Philodendron Giganteum prefers to be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid over-watering as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize Philodendron Giganteum every 2-3 months during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
- Soil: Philodendron Giganteum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a high-quality potting mix and make sure the pot has adequate drainage holes.
- Sunlight: Philodendron Giganteum prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Philodendron Giganteum is not frost-tolerant and should be kept in temperatures above 60°F. It is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Philodendron Giganteum is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases including:
- Mealybugs: These small, white, cotton-like insects can be found on the undersides of leaves and can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: These tiny, spider-like pests can cause webbing on the leaves and can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Bacterial Blight: This disease causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves and can be controlled by removing infected leaves and avoiding overhead watering.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by over-watering and can be prevented by allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Habitat
Philodendron Giganteum is native to the tropical rainforests of South America, where it grows as an epiphyte on trees. It prefers a warm, humid environment with plenty of indirect sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Philodendron Giganteum be grown outdoors?
A: Philodendron Giganteum is not frost-tolerant and should only be grown outdoors in USDA zones 10-12.
Q: How often should I fertilize Philodendron Giganteum?
A: Fertilize Philodendron Giganteum every 2-3 months during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
Q: How often should I water Philodendron Giganteum?
A: Water Philodendron Giganteum when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid over-watering as this can lead to root rot.
Q: What is the best soil for Philodendron Giganteum?
A: Philodendron Giganteum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a high-quality potting mix and make sure the pot has adequate drainage holes.
Related Plants
- Philodendron Selloum
- Philodendron Xanadu
- Philodendron Cordatum
- Philodendron Scandens
References
- “Philodendron Giganteum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=265343.
- “Philodendron Giganteum.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:891225-1.
- “Philodendron Giganteum.” The Sill, thesill.com/blogs/care-miscellaneous/philodendron-giganteum-care.
