Contents
Description
Philodendron Aurantiifolium, also known as Orange Philodendron, is a tropical plant that belongs to the Araceae family. This plant is native to the rainforests of South America, particularly Brazil and Ecuador. The plant is known for its large, glossy, and heart-shaped leaves that can reach up to 3 feet in length. Its leaves are bright green in color when young and turn into a shiny orange color as they mature. It is a popular indoor plant because of its unique look and ease of care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Philodendron |
Appearance
Philodendron Aurantiifolium has large, heart-shaped leaves that can reach up to 3 feet in length. Its leaves are bright green when young and turn into a shiny orange color as they mature. The plant has long and slender stems that can grow up to 2 feet in length. It also produces a spathe, which is a modified leaf that surrounds the spadix, a cylindrical structure that contains the plant’s flowers.
Care Guide
Philodendron Aurantiifolium is an easy-to-care-for plant that can thrive in most indoor environments. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Philodendron Aurantiifolium prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is not frost-tolerant and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Philodendron Aurantiifolium is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common ones:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the plant and cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of them.
- Mealybugs: These insects can appear as white, cottony masses on the undersides of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to remove them.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Philodendron Aurantiifolium is native to the rainforests of South America, particularly Brazil and Ecuador. It grows as an understory plant and can tolerate low light conditions. The plant prefers warm and humid environments with temperatures between 60-80°F and high humidity levels.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Philodendron Aurantiifolium toxic to pets?
A: Yes, this plant is toxic to both cats and dogs. Keep it out of reach of pets to avoid ingestion.
Q: Can Philodendron Aurantiifolium grow outdoors?
A: It is best suited for indoor environments or in a greenhouse setting as it requires warm and humid conditions.
Q: How often should I fertilize Philodendron Aurantiifolium?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How often should I water Philodendron Aurantiifolium?
A: Water the plant once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Related Plants
- Philodendron Brasil
- Philodendron Birkin
- Philodendron Black Cardinal
- Philodendron Gloriosum
References
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (2021). Philodendron. https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/houseplants/philodendron.html
- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Philodendron Aurantiifolium. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/philodendron-aurantiifolium/
- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Philodendron Aurantiifolium. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/297264/philodendron-aurantiifolium/details
