Philodendron Sharoniae

If you’re looking for a truly spectacular houseplant that stands out from the crowd, the philodendron sharoniae is a perfect choice. This rare and stunning tropical is a must-have for collectors, known for its dramatic, elongated leaves and vigorous growth habit.

It brings a piece of the rainforest into your home. While it may seem intimidating, caring for it is quite straightforward once you know what it likes.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover its ideal light, water, and soil needs to keep it thriving.

Often called the “Sharon’s Philodendron,” this plant is a botanical treasure. It’s native to the tropical rainforests of Ecuador and Colombia, where it climbs up trees in dappled sunlight.

The most striking feature are its leaves. They start heart-shaped but rapidly develop into long, narrow, almost sword-like forms with wavy edges as the plant matures.

New leaves emerge with a beautiful reddish-bronze tint before hardening into a deep, glossy green. The contrast is simply breathtaking.

Why It’s Considered a Rare Gem

You won’t find this philodendron at your average garden center. Its rarity comes from a few key factors.

Limited Native Range: It grows in a specific region, making wild collection unsustainable and regulated.
Propagation Speed: It grows fast as a vine, but commercial propagation to meet demand takes time.
High Demand: Its unique look makes it highly sought after by enthusiasts, keeping supply low.

This all contributes to its special status in the plant world. Owning one feels like having a living piece of art.

Perfect Placement and Light Needs

Getting the light right is the single most important thing for a healthy philodendron sharoniae. Think about the filtered light under a jungle canopy.

Ideal Light: Bright, indirect light is best. An east-facing window is perfect, or a few feet back from a south or west window.
Signs of Too Much Light: Leaves may develop pale, scorched patches or turn yellowish. The growth might also stunt.
Signs of Too Little Light: You’ll notice slower growth, smaller leaves, and longer spaces between leaves (internodes). The plant becomes “leggy.”

Avoid direct afternoon sun at all costs. If natural light is low, a grow light can work wonders to supplement.

Watering Your Plant Correctly

Overwatering is the fastest way to harm your plant. These tropicals like moisture but hate soggy feet.

Check the Soil: Before watering, stick your finger about 2 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
Water Thoroughly: Water slowly and evenly until you see it drain freely from the bottom of the pot.
Let it Drain: Always empty the cachepot or saucer after 15 minutes. Never let the pot sit in standing water.
Adjust for Seasons: Water more frequently in spring and summer (active growth) and reduce in fall and winter.

If the leaves start to droop or yellow quickly, check your watering habits first. Underwatering is easier to fix than root rot.

Soil and Potting Mix Recipe

Your philodendron sharoniae needs a light, airy mix that drains quickly. A standard potting soil alone is too dense and will hold to much moisture.

You can easily make your own perfect blend. Here’s a simple, effective recipe:

40% High-quality potting mix (aroid or tropical blend if possible)
30% Orchid bark (for chunkiness and aeration)
20% Perlite (for drainage and oxygen)
10% Horticultural charcoal (optional, but helps keep soil fresh)

This mix ensures roots get both moisture and oxygen. Repot every 1-2 years in spring, sizing up only 1-2 inches in pot diameter at a time.

Humidity and Temperature Tips

As a tropical plant, it appreciates higher humidity but is often more adaptable than you’d think.

Humidity Goal: Aim for 60% or higher. Average home humidity (around 40-50%) is often acceptable, but growth may be slower.
Boosting Humidity: Use a pebble tray, group plants together, or run a humidifier nearby. Misting is less effective and can promote fungal issues if overdone.
Ideal Temperature: Keep it between 65°F and 85°F (18°C – 29°C). Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature drops below 60°F (15°C).

If leaf edges become consistently brown and crispy, low humidity is a likely culprit.

Feeding and Fertilizing Schedule

To support its fast growth, your plant will need regular nutrients during the growing season.

Choose a Fertilizer: A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (like a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20) is fine. You can also use one formulated for foliage plants.
Dilute It: Always dilute to half the strength recommended on the bottle. This prevents fertilizer burn on the roots.
Apply Monthly: Fertilize once a month from early spring through early fall.
Winter Rest: Stop fertilizing in the late fall and winter when growth naturally slows.

Remember, it’s better to under-fertilize than over-fertilize. Flush the soil with plain water every few months to prevent salt buildup.

Pruning and Propagation Guide

Pruning helps maintain a bushy shape and provides cuttings for new plants. The best time to do this is in spring or summer.

How to Prune: Simply use clean, sharp scissors or pruners to cut just above a leaf node (the bump on the stem where a leaf attaches). This encourages new growth from that point.

How to Propagate: It’s easy to propagate from stem cuttings.

Take a cutting with at least one node and 2-3 leaves.
Place the cutting in water or directly into moist sphagnum moss or your aroid mix.
Keep it warm and in bright, indirect light.
If in water, wait for roots to reach 2-3 inches long before potting up. In moss or mix, wait until you feel resistance with a gentle tug.

With good care, you’ll soon have new plants to enjoy or share with fellow plant lovers.

Common Pests and Problems

Even with great care, pests can sometimes appear. Early detection is key.

Spider Mites: Look for fine webbing and tiny dots on leaves. Wipe leaves regularly and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mealybugs: Appear as small, white, cottony masses in leaf axils. Dab with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Fungus Gnats: Small black flies around the soil. They indicate overwatering. Let soil dry more between waterings and use yellow sticky traps.

Yellowing leaves often signal overwatering. Brown, crispy edges usually mean low humidity or underwatering. Adjust your care based on what you see.

FAQ About Philodendron Sharoniae

Is Philodendron Sharoniae a climber?
Yes, it is a vigorous climbing vine. It will appreciate a moss pole or trellis to attach its aerial roots to, which encourages larger leaf growth.

How fast does the Sharoniae philodendron grow?
In ideal conditions with good light and warmth, it is a surprisingly fast grower, especially during the spring and summer months.

Are Philodendron Sharoniae and Philodendron Tortum the same?
No, they are different species. They share a similar deeply-lobed, narrow leaf look, but the tortum’s leaves are much more finely dissected, almost skeletal. The sharoniae’s leaves are more solid and elongated.

Is this tropical philodendron pet-friendly?
No. Like most philodendrons, it contains calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic if ingested by cats, dogs, or humans. Keep it out of reach of curious pets and children.

Where can I buy a Philodendron Sharoniae plant?
Check specialized online plant shops, Etsy, or local plant swap groups. Due to its rarity, be prepared for a higher price point compared to common houseplants and always buy from reputable sellers.