Contents
Description
The Philodendron Melanochrysum is a stunning houseplant known for its large, velvety leaves. It is native to the rainforests of South America, where it grows as an epiphyte on trees. The leaves of the Melanochrysum can grow up to 3 feet long and 1 foot wide, and have a heart-shaped base and pointed tip. The leaves start out a bright green and mature into a deep, velvety green color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Philodendron |
Appearance
The Philodendron Melanochrysum is a stunning plant with large, velvety leaves that can grow up to 3 feet long and 1 foot wide. The leaves have a heart-shaped base and pointed tip and start out a bright green color. As the leaves mature, they turn into a deep, velvety green color that is truly stunning. The plant itself can grow up to 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide, making it a great statement piece in any room.
Care Guide
The Philodendron Melanochrysum is a relatively easy plant to care for, as long as you provide it with the right conditions. Here are some tips to help you care for your Melanochrysum:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water your plant once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The Melanochrysum prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: The Philodendron Melanochrysum is not cold hardy and is best grown indoors or in a greenhouse.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Philodendron Melanochrysum is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can still be susceptible to a few common problems. Here are some things to watch out for:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can be a problem if the air is too dry. Keep the air humid and use a neem oil spray to control them.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs can be a problem if the plant is overwatered. Use a neem oil spray to control them.
- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. Make sure the soil is well-draining and don’t water the plant too much.
Habitat
The Philodendron Melanochrysum is native to the rainforests of South America, where it grows as an epiphyte on trees. This means that it doesn’t grow in soil, but instead attaches itself to the bark of trees and takes in nutrients from the air and rainwater. In its natural habitat, the Melanochrysum can grow up to 20 feet tall.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Philodendron Melanochrysum?
A: Water your Melanochrysum once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: Can I grow my Philodendron Melanochrysum in direct sunlight?
A: No, the Melanochrysum prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Q: How big can my Philodendron Melanochrysum get?
A: The Melanochrysum can grow up to 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide.
Q: How do I fertilize my Philodendron Melanochrysum?
A: Fertilize your Melanochrysum once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Philodendron Bipennifolium
- Philodendron Brasil
- Philodendron Gloriosum
- Philodendron Hederaceum
References
- “Philodendron Melanochrysum Care Guide.” The Sill, thesill.com/blogs/care-miscellaneous/philodendron-melanochrysum-care-guide.
- “Philodendron Melanochrysum.” Plant Care Today, 9 May 2021, plantcaretoday.com/philodendron-melanochrysum.html.
- “Philodendron Melanochrysum: The Velvet Leaf Philodendron.” Smart Garden Guide, 25 Apr. 2021, smartgardenguide.com/philodendron-melanochrysum/.
