Philodendron squamiferum is part of the Araceae family and its native range is Guianas, N. Brazil. It is multi-lobed, usually developing 5 distinct lobes, although juvenile leaves are less lobed and petioles are covered in red bristles. It is an epiphytic vine which grows well up trees; I’d advise using large chunks of bark and some horticultural charcoal in the potting mix.
Genus name comes from the Greek ‘philo’ meaning loving and ‘dendro’ meaning tree. Specific epithet comes from the Latin ‘squami’ meaning fish scales, ‘fer’ meaning bearing.
Pot: ø 15cm
Height: Approximately 45cm from base of pot.
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: 21-27°C. No lower than 15°C.
Humidity: Philodendron prefer higher humidity but do well to adapt to average home humidity. You can increase humidity by placing the plant on a watered pebble tray or using a humidifier.
Philodendron are toxic, keep out of reach of pets and children.