How to Grow and Care for Philodendron Brandtianum

Philodendron brandtianum is a climbing vine with medium to large heart-shaped leaves. The leaves have heavy white to silver markings, so it’s common for this plant to be referred to as silver leaf philodendron. Alternatively, it’s sometimes known as Philodendron brandi. 

In its natural tropical climate, it has a climbing growth habit but can be easily grown as a potted or hanging houseplant. The plant is a moderately fast-growing species that will reach a total height of 4 to 5 feet when grown as a houseplant. Keep it out of the reach of children or pets, since all parts of the Philodendron brandtianum are toxic to people and animals.

Philodendron Brandtianum Care

For the best success in growing Philodendron brandtianum, take note of these main care requirements. 

• Plant in rich, well-draining soil.
• Pick a spot with bright, indirect light. 
• Water deeply when the top few inches of soil become dry.
• Fertilize if desired during spring and summer months.

Light

Philodendron brandtianum grows best with bright, indirect light. Keep in mind that in its native tropical environment, it receives frequent and abundant sunshine but is protected from direct sun by the canopy of foliage. Mimic these conditions by choosing a sunny spot in the room, but avoid a windowsill with direct sun, which is too harsh for this plant. 

Soil

Well-draining soil is essential for Philodendron brandtianum. If you pot this plant using standard potting soil mix, it's best to amend the soil using a 3:1 ratio with perlite or coir. In addition, pick a nutrient-rich mix or add compost to ensure the soil is rich enough to support the plant’s moderately fast growth rate. The pH level should hover between neutral and slightly acidic. 

Water

Philodendron brandtianum should be watered deeply and regularly, with frequency depending on the specific environment. The best approach is to water when the top few inches of soil feel dry; this may be as often as every other day or as infrequent as once per week. Aside from dry soil, drooping or curling leaves indicate the plant needs moisture. Avoid watering leaves, which can lead to fungal growth.

Temperature and Humidity

These plants prefer warm, humid environment with an ideal temperature range between 65 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit, although the plant can tolerate temperatures down to about 50 degrees F. for a short period of time.

When it comes to humidity, these plants do best in levels between 50 and 60 percent. If the humidity in your home is low (during the winter), you may need to put the plant on a pebble tray filled with water to provide more moisture in surrounding air. Just keep in mind that root rot is a real threat to these plants, so the container bottom should not sit directly in water.

Fertilizer

Philodendron brandi is a moderate to fast-growing plant that doesn’t necessarily require fertilizer. To encourage lush growth and leaf development, you can fertilize Philodendron brandtianum with a well-balanced fertilizer for indoor plants. Feed the plant during the spring and summer growing season, and withhold fertilizer during the fall and winter. 

Propagating Philodendron Brandtianum

Philodendron brandtianum is easy to propagate using cuttings. The best time to propagate this plant is during the warm spring and summer months growth is at its peak. Here’s how to propagate using cuttings: 

1. Gathers scissors (or pruning shears), a glass jar (for growing cuttings in water), a small plant pot, potting soil mix, and rooting hormone (optional). 
2. Use the scissors to, cut three to six inches of healthy stem with at least a few leaves. Ideally, cut the stem at a node—just above another leaf. Remove leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. Depending on the size of the parent plant, you can take several cuttings at once.
3.  To grow cuttings in water, fill the glass jar with water, then place the stems into the jar. The leaves should not be submerged, but any nodes where you removed a leaf should be below the water line. Change the water every few days or if it becomes cloudy. 
4. To grow cuttings in soil, fill a small pot with potting mix. If desired, dip the cut ends of each stem into rooting hormone. Then plant the stems of the cuttings into the soil, with the leaves above the soil line. Water as needed to ensure the soil stays moist but does not become soggy. 
5. Place the cuttings in a location that receives bright, indirect light and a warm temperature. 
6. After 3 to 4 weeks, check for root development. For cuttings grown in water, it will be easy to spot the thin, white roots emerging from the stem. When cuttings are planted in soil, very lightly grasp the stem and pull, checking for resistance from newly-formed roots. When evidence of roots exists, transfer the plant to a pot with well-draining soil and water thoroughly. 

Potting and Repotting Philodendron Brandtianum

You’ll need to repot this plant occasionally. To determine if it’s time to repot, check for roots poking out from drainage holes at the bottom of the pot.  Gently loosen soil around the sides of the pot to free the plant and its root ball. Fill a new pot, 2 inches larger, with a rich, loose potting mix that drains well. Plant your Philodendron brandtianum to the same depth and cover the roots. Water thoroughly. 

Common Problems With Philodendron Brandtianum

Philodendrons are known to be easy-to-grow plants. Philodendron brandtianum holds true but there are a few potential challenges caring for this houseplant. 

Leaves Turning Yellow

If your silver leaf philodendron develops yellow leaves, it indicates an imbalance in the plant’s environment. Yellow leaves usually signal two possibilities: not enough sunlight or too much water. 

Start by checking the soil moisture level. Is it overly damp and soggy? Examine the plant’s root system for signs of rot, like mushy, foul-smelling roots that are dark rather than white and firm. 

If your plant shows no evidence of overwatering, the problem may be insufficient sun exposure. While Philodendron brandtianum shouldn’t receive prolonged direct sunlight, these plants do thrive in bright light conditions.

Browning Tips

Another problem that sometimes develops in Philodendron brandtianum is browning on leaf tips. This signals the plant is receiving too much sun. Too much direct sun can cause the leaves to turn brown and crispy. 

The browning effect can't be reversed, but you can take steps to prevent it from becoming more widespread. Move your plant to a location with less direct sun.