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Conservatory GreenhouseHouseplants

Philodendron mamei

blotched philodendron

A creeping, terrestrial species found growing on steep banks in Ecuador. Strong leaf stalks which arise directly from the creeping stem support heart-shaped evergreen leaves up to 45cm across. The leathery leaves are green with splashes of silver grey between the veins. The flowering spathe is only produced on mature plants and is purplish green, while the spadix, or column, inside the spathe is cream. Its ornamental foliage make it attractive to grow as a houseplant

Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Cream Green Purple Green Grey Silver
Summer Cream Green Purple Green Grey Silver
Autumn Green Grey Silver
Winter Green Grey Silver
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or North–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1A
Botanical details
Family
Araceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Spreading branched
Potentially harmful
Harmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant/allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Harmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant/allergen - For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus

Philodendron can be shrubs, trees or climbers, with glossy, leathery, evergreen, simple to pinnately divided leaves, and tiny flowers borne within arum-like white, green or reddish spathes

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Ecuador

How to grow

Cultivation

Under glass, grow in well-drained, ericaceous, loam-based, peat free, potting compost, mixing in some extra perlite, choosing a position in bright but diffused light. During the growing season, April to September, allow the surface of the compost to become just dry before thoroughly watering the compost. Avoid plants sitting in water which can cause the roots to rot. Apply a liquid houseplant fertiliser monthly. Water less frequently in winter, when growth slows right down, and stop feeding at this time until the spring. Repot every 2-3 years. See Philodendron and houseplant cultivation for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by stem-tip or leaf bud cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Houseplants
  • Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to scale insects, glasshouse red spider mite and mealy bugs

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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