Philodendron hederaceum

Philodendron hederaceum, the heartleaf philodendron (syn. Philodendron scandens) is a species of flowering plant in the family Araceae, native to Central America and the Caribbean which is common in the houseplant trade. Philodendron hederaceum var. hederaceum, the "velvet philodendron," is a subspecies which is in the houseplant trade under its previous name of Philodendron micans. While toxic under certain conditions, it is also under current review for numerous health benefits.

Etymology

The name Philodendron originates from the Greek words "Philo", meaning "love", and "dendron", meaning "tree". P. hederaceum are most comfortable growing in an upwards fashion, usually up the trunk of a tree, hence, the name Philodendron.

Description and cultivation

It is an evergreen climber growing to 3–6 m (10–20 ft), with heart-shaped glossy leaves to 30 cm (12 in) long, and occasionally spathes of white flowers in mature plants. With a minimum temperature requirement of 15 °C (59 °F), in temperate regions it must be grown under glass or as a houseplant. Under the synonym Philodendron scandens it has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. P. hederaceum have simple leaves that are arranged in an alternate fashion, meaning single leaves are born on alternating nodes.