Fuzzy Petiole Philodendron

• Rare Plant
• Light Preference/Tolerated (Medium Light, Low Light)
• Average Watering Needs
• Mature Height 18 inches

Many houseplants are grown for specific attributes like colorful leaves, flowers, or interesting leaf shape. Very few, however, are grown for their petioles. The Fuzzy Petiole Philodendron (Philodendron nangaritense) is one such unique plant, with its crimson, fuzzy petioles standing out from the crowd. The leaves of the Fuzzy Petiole, eventually growing 12 inches long, emerge heart-shaped and smooth, rosey pink, fading to a matte fern green with distinct, sunken veins as they mature. This uncommon Philodendron makes a striking addition to a plant collection for plant newbies and collectors alike. 

Best Locations For Growing Fuzzy Petiole Philodendron

The Fuzzy Petiole Philodendron thrives in bright to medium indirect light, allowing it to be placed in front of or near windows. This unique Philodendron can be placed in a bright kitchen or bathroom for the benefit of the extra humidity, or in a living room as a conversation starter. Like other Philodendrons, the Fuzzy Petiole is toxic and care should be taken when placing it in a home with children and pets. 

Fuzzy Petiole Philodendron Sunlight Requirements

Originating from the forest floor of Ecuador, the Fuzzy Petiole Philodendron thrives in dappled, filtered sunlight. Place this plant in a north- or east-facing window or near a south- or west-facing window, protected from intense afternoon sunlight. When placing the Fuzzy Petiole Philodendron in the interior of a room, supplemental lighting may be necessary to ensure that it is getting enough bright light to continue growing.

Fuzzy Petiole Philodendron Care

The Fuzzy Petiole Philodendron leaves tend to be more delicate than those of other Philodendrons, whose leaves are often thicker and leathery. For this reason, extra care should be taken when repotting and moving this plant. Like most houseplants, the Fuzzy Petiole can remain in the same pot for up to two years before needing to be repotted. When repotting is necessary, choose a pot with drainage holes that is only slightly larger than the previous. The Fuzzy Petiole prefers soil that is light, well-draining, and high in organic matter like orchid bark. Because Philodendrons love extra humidity, you can mist the leaves of the Fuzzy Petiole with water, especially in drier climates and in the winter to prevent the leaves from forming crispy edges.

Watering Fuzzy Petiole Philodendron

Like other Philodendrons, the Fuzzy Petiole prefers soil that is moist but not soggy. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry before watering deeply, about once a week in the spring and summer months. Cut back watering slightly in the fall and winter as growth rate slows. Fuzzy Petiole is prone to root rot when its roots stay too wet for too long, so it is important to provide the plant with well-draining soil and adequate drainage. 

Feeding Fuzzy Petiole Philodendron

The Fuzzy Petiole Philodendron benefits from regular fertilizing in its growing season–spring and summer. Add liquid houseplant fertilizer into your watering routine, making sure to follow dilution recommendations. Too much fertilizer does more harm than good and has the potential to burn plant roots and leaves.