Philodendron billietiae

Billietiae Philodendron

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Billietiae PhilodendronVariegated Billietiae Philodendron'Variegata'

Context

nativeRegion

Tropical rainforests of Brazil, Guyana, and French Guiana.

usdaZones

10-12 (grown as a houseplant outside these zones)

companionPlants

Monstera deliciosa, Epipremnum aureum, Anthurium clarinervium

culturalUses

Primarily cultivated as an ornamental; valued for dramatic foliage.

Care

LightBright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch.

WateringAllow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry between watering. Water thoroughly, then drain excess.

SoilWell-draining, airy mix—ideal is aroid mix with bark, perlite, and peat or coco coir.

FertilizerBalanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half strength every 4-6 weeks during growing season.

HumidityPrefers high humidity (60-80%), but adaptable to moderate household levels.

TemperatureOptimal temperatures between 18-27°C (65-80°F). Avoid below 13°C (55°F).

HabitClimbing aroid with elongated, deeply lobed leaves and reddish-orange petioles.

Mature SizeUp to 1 m (3 ft) tall and wide indoors; larger in natural habitat.

Growth RateModerate to fast under optimal conditions.

BloomingRarely flowers indoors; spadix and spathe flower typical of aroids.

DormancyNo true dormancy, but growth slows in winter.

MethodsStem cuttings, Air layering

DifficultyModerate

Best SeasonSpring to early summer

PruningPrune leggy growth and dead leaves to maintain shape.

RepottingRepot every 2-3 years or when root-bound.

Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs. Root rot if overwatered.

ToxicityToxic to pets and humans if ingested; contains calcium oxalates.

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