Philodendron Brasil is native to South America. Philodendron hederaceum “Brasil” is a cultivar of the popular Philodendron Heartleaf. The plant gets the name from its resemblance to Brazil’s national flag. Brasil is considered an easy plant to care for and a great choice for growers of all experience levels.
Philodendron Brasil Appearance
The Brasil Philodendron has a trailing growth pattern and is suited to hanging baskets. When grown upright, in a pot, the plant requires a trellis or moss pole to climb on. The Brasil plant grows to a length of 12 feet (3.6 meters) or longer if not pruned. Brasil’s heart-shaped leaves are dark green with lime green variegation. Spring and summer is the blooming season, though indoor plants bloom less often than outdoor plants. The flowers are green and white.
Brasil Philodendron Light Requirements
Place your plant in bright, indirect light to enhance leaf variegation. An East or West-facing window works well. Avoid low lighting as the variegation will revert and the plant becomes leggy. Direct sun fades or burns the variegated portions of the leaves and is also to be avoided.
Brasil Plant Water Needs
Water your Philodendron Brasil when the top 2 to 3 inches of soil feels dry. Use a moisture meter or insert your finger into the soil up to the second knuckle to test the soil’s moisture level. Water until the moisture runs out the pot’s drainage holes and into the drip tray. Discard any excess water to avoid root rot.
Soil and Fertilizer Requirements
The Brasil Philodendron prefers loamy, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level. Create your own soil by mixing equal parts potting soil, perlite and orchid bark. Avoid adding organic matter that compacts over time and lessens the soil’s drainage capabilities. Feed your plant a balanced, houseplant fertilizer once a month, in spring and summer. Do not fertilize in fall and winter when the plant is dormant and growth slows.
Philodendron Brasil Temperature and Humidity Levels
Keep the environment for the Brasil plant warm and moderately humid. Temperatures between 60 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 30 degrees Celsius) are optimal. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 55 degrees Fahrenheit (12.7 degrees Celsius) as this slows growth and may damage foliage. For homes with low humidity, supplement with either a room humidifier or place a tray filled with small pebbles and water under the plant’s pot.
Brasil Philodendron Propagation
Propagation by cuttings is the easiest method for this plant. Choose a stem 5 to 6 inches long with at least two top leaves and two bottom leaves or nodes. Trim below the bottom nodes, where the new roots will emerge. Remove the bottom leaves, if present, to expose the nodes. Place the cutting in a small jar filled with distilled water, ensuring the nodes are submerged. Place the cutting in bright, indirect light in a warm place away from drafts. Once the cutting’s roots reach two inches long, transplant the new Brasil into a small pot filled with the correct soil mixture. Care for the cutting as you would a mature plant.
Common Pests and Diseases of the Brasil Plant
Philodendron Brasil is resistant to most houseplant pests but mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites may infest under certain conditions. Treat infestations by dipping a cotton swab in 70 percent or less rubbing alcohol and wiping away the insects. For larger infestations, treat the entire plant with an insecticidal soap.
Fungal leaf spot often occurs when the plant is subjected to extended, wet conditions. To treat fungal leaf spot, remove any affected leaves to stop the fungal spread. Ensure leaves do not come in contact with moisture when watering the plant and wipe away any that remains on the foliage. Increase the airflow around the plant by giving more space between individual plants grouped together.
Philodendron Brasil is a must-have houseplant for those who love the look of leaf variegation. While variegation requires extra attention to the plant’s lighting conditions, the extra care is rewarded by the plant’s stunning foliage.
Philodendron Brasil FAQ
Repot your Brasil every two years or when the plant becomes rootbound in its current pot. Spring is the best time to repot and provide fresh soil for your plant.
Yes, all types of Philodendron are considered toxic and should be kept away from pets and small children.
Wrinkled leaves may be a sign of damage caused by fertilizer or pesticides on the leaves. Remove any affected leaves if the damage is advanced and give the plant a light shower to remove any harmful chemicals.
Water dripping from your plant’s leaves is a sign of excess soil moisture that the plant has absorbed and is now trying to expel. Reduce the amount of waterings and do not let the soil become soggy to correct the issue.
Brown leaf tips can be a sign of low humidity or scorching due to prolonged, direct sunlight. Provide indirect lighting and increase the air’s humidity to correct the issue. Brown tips will not revert and pruning is recommended for extensive damage.
