Tree philodendrons are tropical plants known for their large, lush leaves and their ability to thrive in various lighting conditions. In their natural environment, these plants can grow up to 15 feet tall with leaves stretching five feet long. However, when grown indoors, they typically reach a height of five to six feet with two to three-feet-long leaves, making them an appealing choice for indoor gardeners looking to add a touch of the tropics to their space.
Understanding the light requirements for tree philodendrons is essential for maintaining healthy growth and promoting beautiful foliage. These versatile plants originate from tropical environments, where they experience plenty of sunlight, and can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions. Ideally, tree philodendrons do best under medium to bright indirect light, receiving about four to five hours of sunlight per day.
Providing the right amount of light ensures that the tree philodendron will grow at its optimal rate and maintain its vibrant green color. It’s important to avoid exposing the plant to direct intense sunlight, as this can damage the leaves. By placing the tree philodendron near a window with filtered sunlight or using a sheer curtain to diffuse light, indoor gardeners can create a comfortable environment for this eye-catching plant to thrive.
Tree Philodendron Overview
Tree Philodendron, also known as Philodendron bipinnatifidum, is a popular plant among foliage lovers due to its attractive, deeply lobed leaves and low-maintenance nature. This tropical plant, native to South America, makes an excellent addition to both indoor and outdoor spaces.
Thriving in medium to bright indirect sunlight, Tree Philodendron can exhibit symptoms of inadequate lighting when not receiving enough light. Some of the signs include yellowing leaves, leggy growth, and slow growth rate. To ensure healthy growth, the plant should ideally receive 4-6 hours of filtered sunlight daily.
When it comes to finding the perfect spot for Tree Philodendron indoors, a west or southeast-facing window with thin curtains to filter the sunlight is an excellent choice. Maintaining a light intensity of 2,500 – 10,000 lux or 250-1,000 foot candles (FC) ensures that the plant gets the right amount of light it needs to grow.
To make it easier to monitor the plant’s light requirements, consider the following points:
- Look for signs of inadequate light, such as yellowing leaves or leggy growth.
- Aim to provide 4-6 hours of medium to bright indirect sunlight daily.
- Position the plant near a window with filtered light for optimal results.
- Monitor the light intensity to ensure it’s within the recommended range.
Caring for a Tree Philodendron requires more than just meeting its light requirements, but providing the right amount of light is essential for the overall health and well-being of this beautiful plant.
Light Requirements
Ideal Light Conditions
Tree philodendrons thrive when provided with medium to bright indirect light. They perform well when placed near a window filtered with a thin curtain or window blinds. These tropical plants can also adapt to a wide range of lighting conditions but prefer environments with plenty of sunlight. Direct intense sunlight, however, should be avoided as it can harm the foliage.
Signs of Inadequate Light
In order to remain healthy, philodendrons require at least four to five hours of sunlight per day. If your tree philodendron displays stunted growth, it might indicate that the plant is not receiving sufficient light. When subjected to low light conditions, tree philodendrons can tolerate it for a short period, but their growth rate is significantly slower.
Some signs to watch for that might indicate inadequate light are:
- Pale leaves
- Sparse foliage
- Leggy, elongated growth
- Slow or no new growth
If you notice any of these signs, consider relocating your tree philodendron to a spot with more appropriate light conditions. Ensure the area provides dappled shade or medium to bright indirect light to promote healthy growth. Avoid direct or extreme sunlight, as it may damage the plant’s foliage, particularly during the hottest part of summer afternoons.
Types of Tree Philodendrons
Philodendron Selloum
Philodendron Selloum, also known as the Lacy Tree Philodendron, is a popular variety with large, deeply-lobed leaves. It thrives in medium to bright indirect light, making it suitable for indoor environments with filtered sunlight or dappled shade outside. To prevent burning its foliage, avoid placing this plant in direct sunlight.
Philodendron Gloriosum
The Philodendron Gloriosum is another variety that features large, heart-shaped leaves with prominent veins. It prefers a well-lit spot, but it’s essential to provide it with bright indirect light. Gloriosum is sensitive to harsh sunlight, so ensure that the light source is not directly hitting the foliage.
Philodendron Bipinnatifidum
Also known as the Tree Philodendron, the Philodendron Bipinnatifidum has large, deeply lobed leaves that can spread out and create a lush atmosphere. It does well in locations with dappled shade or medium to bright indirect light, making it a versatile choice for both indoor and outdoor cultivation. As with many philodendrons, it’s crucial not to expose this plant to low light conditions or direct sunlight, as this can harm its leaves.
Philodendron Xanadu
The Philodendron Xanadu is a compact variety characterized by its dense, attractive foliage. It thrives in medium to bright indirect light, ensuring healthy growth throughout the year. Placing the Xanadu near a window with filtered sunlight or using a sheer curtain to diffuse the light will provide optimal conditions for this plant. Be mindful of shielding it from direct sun exposure, especially during hot summer afternoons.
Adjusting Light Conditions
Indoor Lighting Options
Tree philodendrons thrive with 6 to 8 hours of medium to bright, indirect light daily. Direct sunlight can harm their leaves, causing drooping and wilt. To provide appropriate light conditions indoors, consider the following options:
- Place the plant near a south-facing window, a few feet away to ensure it receives indirect sunlight.
- Rotate the plant regularly to maintain symmetrical growth as the leaves reach for the closest light source.
- Utilize a combination of natural and artificial light, such as LED grow lights or fluorescent bulbs, to achieve the desired light levels.
Outdoor Lighting Options
When planting a tree philodendron outdoors, ensure the location provides the right amount of shade and indirect light. Consider these tips for adjusting outdoor light conditions:
- Plant the tree philodendron under the canopy of larger trees, mimicking the filtered light of their natural environment.
- Install shade structures or use outdoor umbrellas to protect the plant from direct sunlight during the day.
- Increase or decrease the plant’s exposure to light by moving it to a brighter or shadier spot, allowing the philodendron to adapt and acclimate gradually.
Remember that younger and smaller tree philodendrons generally need more light than mature plants. Adjust lighting conditions as the plant grows to continue providing the appropriate light requirements for a healthy growth.
Additional Care Tips
Watering Needs
Tree philodendrons require a careful balance when it comes to watering. The soil should be consistently moist but not drenched or waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot (source). Make sure to use a well-draining potting medium and avoid overwatering. It’s essential to keep an eye on the moisture levels and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Fertilization Requirements
Providing the proper nutrients is vital for healthy tree philodendron growth. Feed your plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. It’s essential to follow the fertilizer package instructions to avoid overfertilizing and potentially damaging your plant. During the winter months, reduce the frequency of fertilization as the plant’s growth slows down.
Pruning Techniques
Pruning your tree philodendron helps maintain its shape and size, as well as encourages new growth. Follow these simple pruning steps:
- Remove any yellow or brown leaves by cutting them off at the base of the leaf stem.
- Trim any excessively long or unruly stems to encourage bushier growth.
- Remove any dead or damaged stems by cutting them back to the main stem or the soil line.
By taking the time to prune your tree philodendron regularly, you help ensure its long-term health and vibrant appearance.
Common Problems and Solutions
Yellow Leaves
Yellow leaves on a tree philodendron can be caused by insufficient light or root rot due to overwatering. To address the light issue, consider moving the plant to a sunnier location gradually over one to two weeks. Increase the light exposure incrementally to prevent the plant from going into shock.
If you suspect overwatering, check the soil moisture and adjust your watering habits. Make sure the soil is consistently moist, but not waterlogged, as this could lead to root rot.
Brown Spots
Brown spots on tree philodendron leaves may be due to several reasons, such as:
- Overwatering
- Underwatering
- Inadequate humidity
- Nutrient deficiency or excess
- Fungal or bacterial infection
To resolve the issue, diagnose the underlying cause and modify the plant’s care accordingly. Adjust the watering schedule, humidity, or fertilizing regimen as needed. In cases of fungal or bacterial infections, trim the affected leaves and apply relevant treatments to prevent further spread.
Leggy Growth
When tree philodendrons don’t receive enough light, they exhibit leggy growth with tall, thin stems and sparse leaves. This is because the plant struggles to produce enough energy for proper growth through photosynthesis. To correct this problem, gradually move the plant closer to a light source over a period of one to two weeks, steadily increasing sunlight exposure without shocking the plant. Ensuring proper lighting will promote a healthier, more compact growth pattern.
Helpful Video
My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.
