Philodendron pedatum is native to South America. This Philodendron variety is a fast-growing climber. The plant is also called the Oak Leaf Philodendron because its foliage resembles the leaves of an Oak tree.
Philodendron Pedatum Appearance
The Philodendron Pedatum reaches a height of 9 feet (2.7 meters) and 1 foot (30.4 cm) wide.
The plant’s vining growth habit makes the plant suitable for hanging baskets or pots with a trellis or moss pole added for support. The dark-green leaves start out oblong, then develop deep lobes.
Individual leaves often grow to a length of 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20.3 cm), though some reach 14 inches (35.5 cm). The plant does not often bloom indoors, but when flowers appear they are brownish-green.
Pedatum Philodendron Light Requirements
Provide your Oak Leaf Philodendron with bright, indirect light for 6 to 8 hours per day. The plant will tolerate dappled light or partial shade as well. Do not expose the Philodendron pedatum to direct sunlight for extended periods as it scorches the foliage.
Watering the Pedatum Philodendron
Philodendrons prefer the soak and dry watering method. Let the top 1 inch of soil dry between waterings. Water slowly until the moisture runs through the pot’s drainage holes. Dispose of water collected in the tray so the roots don’t sit in water, which leads to root rot.
Soil and Fertilizer Requirements
Grow your Pedatum Philodendron in either a good potting soil amended with equal parts peat and perlite or sphagnum moss alone. Keep the soil’s pH between 5.5 to 7.0 for optimal growth. Feed your plant, in the spring and summer, with a balanced, liquid houseplant fertilizer once per month. Do not fertilize the plant in the fall and winter dormant months.
Temperature and Humidity Levels for the Oak Leaf Philodendron
Temperatures between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 23.8 degrees Celsius) are ideal during the day.
At night, temperatures 5 to 10 degrees cooler are good for the plant. Avoid placing your plant near vents or air conditioners as drafts can damage the foliage.
Humidity levels around 60 percent are ideal but levels between 40 to 80 percent are also acceptable. Increase low humidity by using a tray filled with small pebbles and water under the pot’s drip tray.
Propagating the Pedatum Philodendron
Propagate your plant by cutting a stem 2 to 4 inches long from a mature plant. Ensure the cutting has two top leaves and two bottom leaves or exposed nodes.
Remove the bottom leaves, if present, and allow the stem to sit and cure for one to two weeks to form a callus.
Once calloused, fill a small pot with the recommended soil mix. Poke a hole with your finger into the middle of the soil and insert the stem until the nodes are below the surface.
Fill in the hole and use a wooden skewer to support the stem if needed. Place the pot in bright, indirect sunlight and keep the soil moist. Once the cutting has established a root system, and begins new growth, care for the plant as you would a mature one.
Common Pests and Diseases of Philodendron Pedatum
Watch for mealybugs, scale and spider mites as common pests to infest Philodendron pedatum. Infestations are detected by the presence of these pests, often under the leaves, and the honeydew they excrete onto the plant. If left untreated, the honeydew encourages black, sooty mold to form, which further damages the plant. Use an insecticidal soap to treat the infestation.
Root rot is common among Philodendrons and results from overwatering the plant. Reduce waterings and, once the soil is dry, remove the plant from its pot. Infected roots appear dark and mushy. Use sharp and sterile shears to trim away any infected roots. Mix one part 3 percent hydrogen peroxide and two parts water in a spray bottle and generously mist the remaining roots. Transfer the plant to a clean pot with fresh soil. If most of the root system is affected the plant likely cannot be saved.
Philodendron pedatum is a low-maintenance houseplant that makes an impression thanks to its unique foliage. The plant’s care needs are straightforward and adapt well to most home environments. Due to its fast growth, even a small, starter plant will turn into a lush houseplant in just a few years.
Philodendron Pedatum FAQ
Yes, all Philodendrons are considered toxic and should be kept away from pets and small children.
Pruning is recommended to both remove dead leaves and stems or to shape leggy stems and encourage fuller growth. Prune leggy stems just above a set of leaves or nodes to encourage new growth.
Yes, it is recommended to wipe the leaves once per week with a damp cloth to remove dust buildup. Use only clean water and avoid commercial leaf shine products as they may damage the foliage.
The Oak Leaf Pedatum grows well outdoors in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Both provide ample support for plants grown upright in pots. The advantage of the moss pole is it can be misted with water to provide extra moisture and humidity for the plant’s leaves as they grow longer.
