Philodendron Silver Sword

If you’re looking for a houseplant with truly striking foliage, the philodendron silver sword is a perfect choice. Its stunning silver leaf patterns make it a standout in any indoor collection.

This tropical plant is not just beautiful; it’s also surprisingly adaptable. With the right care, it can grow into a magnificent, sprawling specimen. Let’s get into everything you need to know to keep your Silver Sword thriving.

Native to the rainforests of South America, the Philodendron Silver Sword (Philodendron hastatum) is a climber by nature. In its home environment, it uses aerial roots to attach itself to trees, reaching for the canopy light.

Its most defining feature is, of course, its leaves. Juvenile leaves start a blue-green shade but as the plant matures, they develop a remarkable metallic silver sheen. The leaf shape also changes, becoming more elongated and arrow-like.

Essential Care Requirements

Getting the basics right is simple. This plant is forgiving, making it great for intermediates but also manageable for keen beginners.

Light: Bright and Indirect is Best

To maintain those stunning silver leaf patterns, your plant needs plenty of bright, indirect light. A spot near an east or north-facing window is ideal.

Avoid direct, harsh afternoon sun. It can scorch the delicate leaves, causing brown patches.
Too little light will cause the plant to become leggy as it stretches for light. The silver sheen will also fade, and growth will slow.
Rotate your plant a quarter turn every time you water. This ensures even growth on all sides.

Watering: The Golden Rule

Overwatering is the fastest way to harm your philodendron. These plants prefer to dry out a bit between drinks.

Here’s a simple method:

Check the soil by sticking your finger about 2 inches deep.
If the top 2 inches feel dry, it’s time to water.
Water thoroughly until it runs out of the drainage holes.
Empty the saucer or cache pot after 15 minutes. Never let the plant sit in standing water.

In winter, reduce watering frequency as growth slows and soil takes longer to dry.

Soil and Potting

A well-draining, airy potting mix is non-negotiable. A standard houseplant soil can be too dense on its own.

You can make a great mix by combining:

2 parts regular potting soil
1 part perlite
1 part orchid bark or coco coir

This mix prevents compaction and allows roots to breath, mimicking the plant’s natural epiphytic tendencies. Repot every 1-2 years in spring, sizing up only 1-2 inches in pot diameter.

Humidity and Temperature

As a tropical plant, it appreciates higher humidity (above 50%), but it can adapt to average home levels.

Signs of low humidity include crispy, brown leaf edges.
To increase humidity: group plants together, use a pebble tray, or run a humidifier nearby.
Keep it away from heating vents, air conditioners, and drafty windows. Ideal temperatures are between 65°F and 80°F.

Training and Support

Your philodendron silver sword is a natural climber. Providing support encourages larger, more mature leaves to develop.

You have a few options:

Moss Pole: This is the best option. The aerial roots can attach to it, and the moss retains some moisture the plant will appreciate.
Trellis or Stake: A simple bamboo stake or small trellis can offer initial support for a younger plant.
Trailing: You can let it trail from a shelf or hanging basket. The leaves will remain smaller, but the effect is still beautiful.

To attach the plant, use soft plant ties or clips. Don’t force the stems; gently guide them.

Feeding and Fertilizing

During the active growing season (spring and summer), your plant will benefit from extra nutrients.

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (like a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula).
Dilute it to half the strength recommended on the bottle.
Apply this diluted fertilizer once a month when you water.
Stop fertilizing completely in fall and winter. The plant isn’t actively growing and won’t use the nutrients, which can lead to salt buildup in the soil.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even with great care, you might encounter an issue. Here’s how to troubleshoot.

Yellow Leaves

This is often a sign of overwatering. Check the soil moisture immediately. If it’s soggy, let it dry out completely before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes.

Brown, Crispy Leaf Edges

Usually caused by low humidity or underwatering. Increase humidity around the plant and check your watering schedule. Sometimes tap water chemicals can cause this; using filtered or rainwater can help.

Leggy Growth with Small Leaves

This means the plant needs more light. Move it to a brighter location, but avoid direct sun. Pruning back the leggy stems can also encourage bushier new growth from the base.

Pests

Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips. Wipe leaves regularly with a damp cloth to deter them.

If you spot pests, isolate the plant.
Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil, applying it to all leaf surfaces (top and bottom).
Repeat treatment weekly until the pests are gone.

Propagation: Making More Plants

Sharing your philodendron silver sword is easy through stem cuttings. Spring or early summer is the best time.

Using clean, sharp scissors, cut a stem section that has at least one node (the bump where leaves and roots grow from) and 2-3 leaves.
You can root it in water or directly in soil.
- Water: Place the cutting in a glass of water, ensuring the node is submerged. Change the water weekly. Roots should appear in 2-4 weeks.
- Soil: Plant the cutting in a small pot with moist potting mix. Keep the soil consistently damp (not wet) for the first few weeks.
Once roots are a few inches long (for water propagation), pot the cutting up into its own container.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Philodendron Silver Sword toxic?
Yes. Like all philodendrons, it contains calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep it out of reach of curious cats, dogs, and children.

How fast does a silver sword philodendron grow?
With good light, warmth, and proper care, it’s a moderately fast grower during the spring and summer. You can expect several new leaves each season.

Why are my silver sword’s leaves not turning silver?
Insufficient light is the main cause. Move it to a brighter spot. Also, remember that very young leaves start green and develop their silver sheen as they mature.

Should I mist my philodendron?
Misting provides only a very temporary boost in humidity and can promote fungal issues if water sits on the leaves. Using a humidifier or pebble tray is a more effective long-term solution for raising humidity.

Can I put my philodendron hastatum outside?
You can during warm summer months, but it must be in a shaded, sheltered spot. Never expose it to direct outdoor sun, which is much stronger than indoor light. Bring it back inside well before nighttime temperatures drop below 60°F.

With its captivating foliage and resilient nature, the philodendron silver sword is a rewarding plant to care for. Pay attention to its light and water needs, give it a support to climb, and you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular display of those stunning silver leaf patterns for years to come. Remember, the key is to mimic its natural rainforest habitat as closely as possible in your home.