If you’re looking for a houseplant that truly makes a statement, the Philodendron pastazanum is a perfect choice. This rare and stunning tropical plant has become a prized possession for collectors, thanks to its magnificent, velvety leaves.
Its unique appearance can be a bit intimidating, but don’t worry. With the right know-how, it’s a surprisingly adaptable plant to grow in your home. This guide gives you all the practical tips you need to keep your Philodendron pastazanum healthy and thriving.
Philodendron Pastazanum
Native to the rainforests of Ecuador and Peru, the Philodendron pastazanum is a terrestrial aroid, meaning it grows on the forest floor. It’s known for its spectacular heart-shaped leaves that can grow over two feet long in ideal conditions. The deep green foliage has a soft, suede-like texture and prominent, light-colored veins that create a dramatic contrast.
New leaves emerge a bright, shiny green and gradually develop their characteristic matte, velvety finish. The plant has a creeping growth habit, sending out runners along the soil surface. This makes it excellent for a wide, shallow pot where it’s foliage can really sprawl and show off.
Essential Care Requirements
Getting the basics right is the key to success with this plant. It’s not overly fussy, but it does have specific preferences that mimic it’s natural rainforest floor home.
Light: Bright and Indirect is Best
This philodendron needs plenty of bright, indirect light to grow well and maintain it’s stunning leaf size. Direct sun, especially harsh afternoon rays, will quickly scorch the delicate leaves. An east-facing window is ideal, or a spot a few feet back from a south or west window.
Signs of too much light include yellowing or crispy brown patches. If the stems become long and leggy with small leaves, it’s asking for more light.
Watering: The Golden Rule
Watering is where most issues arise. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy. Think of the dampness of a wrung-out sponge.
- Check the top inch or two of soil with your finger.
- Water thoroughly when the top layer feels dry.
- Always allow excess water to drain away completely—never let the plant sit in a saucer of water.
- Reduce watering slightly in the winter when growth slows.
Overwatering leads to root rot, the main threat to this plant. Underwatering will cause the large leaves to droop and develop dry, brown edges.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, airy potting mix is non-negotiable. A standard houseplant soil is too dense on it’s own.
A simple, effective mix is:
- 2 parts high-quality potting soil
- 1 part perlite or pumice
- 1 part orchid bark or coco chips
This combination retains some moisture while allowing oxygen to reach the roots. Choose a pot with ample drainage holes. Because of it’s spreading habit, a wider, shallower pot is often better than a deep, narrow one.
Creating the Perfect Environment
Humidity: The Secret for Stunning Leaves
As a tropical plant, the Philodendron pastazanum thrives in high humidity, ideally above 60%. Average home humidity is often too low, especially in winter.
Here are some effective ways to increase humidity:
- Use a humidifier placed near the plant. This is the most reliable method.
- Group it with other humidity-loving plants to create a microclimate.
- Place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water (ensure the pot sits above the water line).
While it can adapt to lower humidity, you may see slower growth and the leaf edges might become slightly crispy. Misting is not very effective and can promote fungal issues on the velvety leaves, so it’s not recommended.
Temperature and Fertilizing
Keep your plant in a warm room, between 65°F and 80°F (18°C – 27°C). Protect it from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and sudden temperature drops below 55°F (13°C).
Feed your philodendron during the active growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks. There’s no need to fertilize in the fall and winter when the plant is resting.
An occasional sign of over-fertilization is a buildup of white salts on the soil surface or brown leaf tips. If this happens, flush the soil with plain water.
Propagation and Maintenance
You can propagate your Philodendron pastazanum through division or stem cuttings. The easiest method is division during repotting.
- Gently remove the plant from it’s pot and brush away the soil.
- Identify a natural section with it’s own roots and at least one growth point (node).
- Carefully separate this section using clean, sharp scissors or a knife.
- Pot the new division in it’s own container with fresh potting mix.
- Keep the soil moist and provide high humidity as the new plant establishes.
For stem cuttings, take a piece of stem with at least one node and one leaf. You can root it in water or moist sphagnum moss, transferring to soil once roots are a few inches long.
Common Problems and Solutions
Even with great care, you might encounter an issue. Here’s a quick troubleshooting guide:
- Yellowing Leaves: Often a sign of overwatering. Check soil moisture and roots.
- Brown, Crispy Leaf Edges: Usually caused by low humidity or underwatering.
- Drooping Leaves: Can indicate either overwatering or underwatering—check the soil.
- Pests: Watch for spider mites, mealybugs, and fungus gnats. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth and use insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed.
Regularly wiping the large leaves with a soft, damp cloth keeps them dust-free and helps you inspect for pests. It also allows the plant to breathe and absorb light better.
FAQ About the Philodendron Pastazanum
Is the Philodendron pastazanum rare?
Yes, it is considered a rarer find compared to common philodendrons like the Heartleaf. It’s becoming more available but is still prized by collectors.
How fast does the Pastazanum grow?
Growth speed depends on conditions. With ideal light, warmth, and humidity, it can put out several large leaves per growing season. In lower light, growth will be slower.
Is it pet-friendly?
No. Like most aroids, Philodendron pastazanum contains calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets.
Why are the new leaves smaller?
Insufficient light is the most common cause. Try moving it to a brighter location (without direct sun). A lack of nutrients can also be a factor.
Should I provide a moss pole?
Since it’s a crawler, not a climber, a moss pole isn’t necessary. It naturally grows along the ground. You can use a wide, low planter to accommodate it’s spreading habit.
How often should I repot?
Repot every 1-2 years in spring, or when you see roots circling the bottom of the pot. Only size up the pot by 1-2 inches to prevent excess wet soil.
Caring for a Philodendron pastazanum is a rewarding experience. Its dramatic foliage brings a piece of the tropical rainforest into your home. By providing the right balance of light, water, and humidity, you’ll be able to enjoy this remarkable plant for many years to come. Remember, observation is your best tool—your plant will tell you what it needs.