Philodendron billietiae is part of the Araceae family and its native range is Guianas, Brazil. It was discovered in 1981 by Frieda Billiet. Philodendron billietiae is a hemiepiphyte with long, erect petioles and narrow, pendant blades. Leaves are coriaceous and have lateral veins, margins are weakly undulate, petioles are golden-orange. This plant would benefit from a moss pole as it matures.
Genus name comes from the Greek ‘philo’ meaning loving and ‘dendro’ meaning tree. Specific epithet came from Dr Thomas Croat, he wanted to honor his friend and discoverer of the species, Dr Frieda Billiet.
Light: Bright indirect light, meaning the plant sees the sun for 0-4 hours per day - this could be through trees or a translucent curtain, it’s important for the plant to see the sky in order to thrive.
Water: Allow the first 2-3 inches of mix to dry out, pour water slowly over the top and allow the water to pass through the drainage holes.
Potting mix: A well draining mix composed of coco coir, perlite or vermiculite, orchid bark and worm castings.
Fertilising: Feed your plant every other watering during the growing season or when you observe active growth. You can dilute fertiliser to half the recommended amount but never add more.
Temperature: 20-25˚C and night temperatures of 18˚C.
Humidity: Philodendron billietiae prefer higher humidity, (over 60%). You can increase humidity by placing the plant on a watered pebble tray or by using a humidifier.
Philodendron are toxic, keep out of reach of pets and children.