Philodendron hederaceum
Common name: Heartleaf philodendron · Sweetheart plant
Philodendron hederaceum is an evergreen climbing vine native to Central America and the Caribbean. Its glossy, heart-shaped leaves and trailing or climbing habit have made it one of the most enduring houseplants, in cultivation since the Victorian era. It adapts well to low light and is very easy to propagate.
Care summary
Sun
Low to bright indirect light
Water
Water when top 2–3 cm of soil is dry
Soil
Loose, well-draining aroid mix
Hardiness
Zones 10–12
Mature height
Vines up to 4 m (13 ft) or more
Pet safe
Toxic to cats and dogs if ingested
Difficulty
Easy
Propagation
Stem cuttings root readily in water or moist potting mix. Cut a 10-15 cm section just below a node, remove the lower leaves, and place the bare node in water or soil; pot up once roots are a few centimeters long.
Fun facts
- It has been grown as a houseplant since the 1800s and is sometimes called the "parlor ivy."
- A stem cutting with one node will root easily in water or soil.
- Popular cultivars include the chartreuse 'Lemon Lime' and the velvety variegated 'Brasil'.