Philodendron Mcdowell

If you’re looking for a houseplant that makes a dramatic, architectural statement, look no further. The philodendron mcdowell is a stunning large-leafed houseplant that commands attention in any room.

Its huge, deeply lobed leaves have a rich, glossy green color. It brings a slice of the tropical rainforest right into your home. This hybrid is a cross between Philodendron gloriosum and Philodendron pastazanum, combining the best traits of both.

It’s a relatively new and sought-after plant. But don’t let that intimidate you. With the right know-how, it’s a rewarding and surprisingly adaptable plant to grow.

This plant is all about the foliage. Each leaf can grow over two feet long under ideal conditions. They emerge a bright, coppery green before maturing to a deep, lush green.

The leaves have a velvety texture and prominent, light-colored veins. They are held on long, sturdy petioles that rise from a central growing point. Unlike some climbers, the McDowell has a more self-heading, spreading habit.

It grows from a rhizome, a thick stem that creeps along the soil surface. New leaves push up from this rhizome, creating a full, impressive display over time.

Ideal Growing Conditions

To keep your Philodendron McDowell thriving, you need to mimic its natural tropical habitat. This means focusing on light, temperature, and humidity.

Getting these elements right is the key to those massive, healthy leaves.

Light Requirements

This plant prefers bright, indirect light. Think of the dappled sunlight it would get on a rainforest floor.

A spot near an east-facing window is perfect.
A few feet back from a south or west window works well, too.
Direct sun will scorch and yellow the beautiful leaves.
Too little light will result in small leaves and slow, leggy growth.

Temperature & Humidity

As a tropical plant, it loves warmth and moisture in the air.

Keep temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C – 27°C).
Avoid drafts, air conditioners, and heating vents.
Humidity should ideally be above 60%. This is crucial for large leaf development.

If your home’s air is dry, here are some simple solutions:

Use a humidifier near the plant. This is the most effective method.
Place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water. Ensure the pot sits above the water line.
Group it with other plants to create a microclimate.

Plant Care and Maintenance

Once you have the environment set, daily and seasonal care is straightforward. Consistency is more important then perfection.

Watering Your Plant Correctly

Overwatering is the fastest way to harm your Philodendron McDowell. Its rhizome can rot in soggy soil.

Check the soil moisture first. Stick your finger about 2 inches into the potting mix.
Water thoroughly only when the top couple inches feel dry.
Water until it runs freely from the drainage holes. This ensures the entire root ball gets moisture.
Empty the saucer after watering so the plant isn’t sitting in water.
Reduce watering frequency in the winter when growth slows.

Soil and Fertilizer Needs

The right soil mix provides drainage and aeration. A standard houseplant potting soil is too dense on its own.

Create a chunky, well-draining mix. You can combine:

1 part high-quality potting soil
1 part orchid bark or coco chips
1 part perlite or pumice
A handful of horticultural charcoal is also beneficial.

For fertilizer, feed your plant during the active growing season (spring and summer).

Use a balanced, liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Apply it once a month after watering.
There’s no need to fertilize in the fall and winter.

Pruning and Cleaning

Pruning is mostly for aesthetics and plant health. You don’t need to prune it often.

Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves at the base of their stem.
You can trim back any wayward growth to maintain a pleasing shape.
Always use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.

Dust collects on those large leaves, blocking light. Gently wipe them down with a damp, soft cloth every few weeks. This helps the plant breathe and photosynthesize efficiently.

Potting, Repotting, and Propagation

Your Philodendron McDowell will need more space as it grows. Repotting is also the perfect time for propagation if you want more plants.

When and How to Repot

Repot in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Signs it needs a new pot include:

Roots growing out of the drainage holes.
The plant drying out very quickly after watering.
Slowed growth despite good care.

Choose a new pot only 1-2 inches larger in diameter. A pot that’s too big holds excess moisture. Ensure it has excellent drainage holes.

Gently remove the plant from its current pot.
Loosen the root ball slightly and brush away old soil.
Place it in the new pot with fresh potting mix at the bottom.
Fill in around the sides, keeping the rhizome at the same soil level as before.
Water lightly to settle the soil.

How to Propagate Philodendron McDowell

The easiest way to propagate is by rhizome division during repotting. This is simpler than it sounds.

During repotting, identify a section of the rhizome with at least one healthy leaf and some roots.
Using a clean, sharp knife, carefully cut that section away from the main plant.
Let the cut end callous over for a few hours to prevent rot.
Plant the division in a small pot with your well-draining mix.
Care for it as you would a mature plant, keeping the soil slightly more moist initially.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even with great care, you might encounter an issue. Here’s how to identify and fix common problems.

Yellowing Leaves

This is a common symptom with a few possible causes.

Overwatering: The most likely cause. Check your soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule. Ensure the pot drains well.
Underwatering: Less common, but possible. The plant will look wilted and the soil will be very dry.
Nutrient Deficiency: If older leaves are yellowing, it might need a light feed.
Natural Aging: It’s normal for the oldest leaf to occasionally yellow and die off.

Brown Leaf Edges or Tips

This usually points to a humidity issue or water quality.

Low Humidity: Increase the moisture in the air around your plant using the methods described earlier.
Tap Water: Chemicals like fluoride and chlorine can cause tip burn. Use filtered water, rainwater, or let tap water sit out overnight before using.

Pests to Watch For

Philodendron McDowell can sometimes attract common houseplant pests. Check the undersides of leaves regularly.

Spider Mites: Look for fine webbing and tiny dots. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth or use insecticidal soap.
Mealybugs: Appear as small, white, cottony masses. Dab them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Scale: Look like small, brown bumps on stems and leaves. Scrape them off gently or use horticultural oil.

Early detection makes treatment much easier. Isolate any affected plant to prevent the pests from spreading.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the Philodendron McDowell rare?
Yes, it is considered a somewhat rare and collectible houseplant. It’s becoming more available as growers propagate it, but it may not be in your local garden center.

How fast does a Philodendron McDowell grow?
Growth speed depends on conditions. With ideal light, warmth, and humidity, it can produce several new, large leaves each growing season. Growth slows or stops in winter.

Is Philodendron McDowell a climber or crawler?
It has a creeping, crawling growth habit. The rhizome grows along the soil surface. It does not climb like some other philodendrons, but it can benefit from a wide, shallow pot.

Are Philodendron McDowell plants toxic?
Yes, like all philodendrons, they contain calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep the plant out of reach of curious cats, dogs, and children.

What’s the difference between Philodendron McDowell and Philodendron Gloriosum?
They are closely related, as Gloriosum is a parent. Gloriosum leaves are typically more heart-shaped with white veining, while McDowell leaves are more lobed and have a slightly different texture and growth pattern.

Why are my new leaves smaller than the old ones?
This often indicates insufficient light. Try moving your plant to a brighter location with indirect light. Inadequate humidity or nutrients can also contribute to smaller leaf size.

Caring for a Philodendron McDowell is a joy for any plant enthusiast. Its spectacular foliage is a worthy reward for providing its simple needs. By focusing on bright indirect light, consistent watering, and high humidity, you’ll be able to enjoy this stunning large-leafed houseplant for many years to come. It truly is a living piece of art for your home.