Philodendron luxurians
Philodendron luxurians
Luxurians Philodendron
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Taxonomy
Family Araceae · Genus Philodendron
Description
Philodendron luxurians is a collector’s aroid prized for its plush, velvety, heart‑shaped leaves and striking venation. A slow-to-moderate climber, it thrives with warmth, humidity, and a chunky aroid mix, rewarding good care with dramatic foliage.
Common Names
Luxurians PhilodendronVelvet Philodendron (Luxurians)Philodendron sp. ‘Luxurians’
Context
nativeRegion
Humid lowland to premontane rainforests of Colombia and northwestern Ecuador (Chocó bioregion).
usdaZones
10–12
companionPlants
Philodendron verrucosum, Anthurium crystallinum, Monstera adansonii, Peperomia obtusifolia, Asplenium nidus (Bird’s Nest Fern)
culturalUses
Grown as a premium ornamental houseplant and display specimen for foliage collectors and aroid enthusiasts.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light; protect from direct sun to prevent leaf scorch. Medium light tolerated with slower growth.
WateringKeep evenly moist but not soggy; water when the top 1–2 inches of mix are dry. Reduce slightly in winter.
SoilAiry aroid mix: 40–50% chunky components (orchid bark, perlite, pumice) with coco coir/peat and a bit of charcoal; slightly acidic.
FertilizerBalanced liquid fertilizer at 1/4–1/2 strength every 4–6 weeks in spring–summer; pause or halve in fall–winter.
HumidityHigh humidity 60–80% preferred; provide pebble tray, humidifier, or grow tent for best leaf quality and expansion.
TemperatureWarm: 65–85°F (18–29°C). Avoid cold drafts; do not allow below ~55°F (13°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitHemiepiphytic climber; appreciates a moss pole or textured support to size up leaves.
Mature SizeVine to several feet; individual leaves commonly 8–16 in (20–40 cm), larger with maturity and support.
Growth RateModerate, faster in warm, bright, humid conditions.
BloomingOccasional aroid spadix/spathe in ideal conditions; rarely flowers indoors and typically grown for foliage.
DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in cooler, darker months.
Propagation
MethodsStem cuttings with at least one node, Air layering on an active node, Node cuttings rooted in moss or perlite
DifficultyModerate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningTrim leggy vines above a node to encourage branching; remove yellow or damaged leaves. Wipe foliage to keep velvet clean.
RepottingRepot every 12–18 months or when roots circle pot; move up one size and refresh chunky mix.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for thrips, spider mites, mealybugs; manage with isolation, showering, and insecticidal soap or oil. Prevent root rot with drainage and airflow; avoid overwatering and stagnant humidity to reduce bacterial/fungal leaf spots.
ToxicityToxic if ingested (calcium oxalate crystals). Keep away from pets and children; sap may irritate skin.
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