A variety of the Philodendron plant, which is native to tropical regions of South America, the Philodendron Brasil is generally easy to care for. It’s a popular houseplant and can be grown in either a pot or a hanging basket if you’d like to add a little something special to your home décor.
One of its most notable features is the Philodendron Brasil is known for its ability to purify the air by removing toxins. Pretty neat, right?
Best of all, it is pretty easy to grow and look after and has the ability to thrive in a range of different light conditions.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to grow a Philodendron Brasil.
What is a Philodendron Brasil?
Known as Philodendron hederaceum var. Brasil in the scientific fraternity, Philodendron Brasil received its specific classification due to its similarity in leaf shape and structure with Philodendron hederaceum. However, it has more vibrant yellow-green leaf variegation. Its leaves are particularly well known for their bright colour and heart shape.
How to Grow a Philodendron Brasil
Luckily for you, the process of growing Philodendron Brasil is fairly easy, and it’s pretty low maintenance when it comes to taking care of the plant in the long run too. The most important aspects of the plant’s growth that you need to be aware of are light, water, soil, temperature, humidity, fertiliser, pruning and propagation.
Let’s take a deeper dive into how to grow Philodendron Brasil.
When to Plant a Philodendron Brasil
It can be planted at any time of the year, as long as you can provide the appropriate growing conditions for the plant. However, the best time to plant it is during the spring or the summer when the plant is in its active growing phase. This will allow it to establish itself and grow more quickly.
When planting, make sure that the soil is moist but well-drained and that the location you choose has bright indirect light. With the proper care, your Philodendron Brasil should begin to thrive and grow in no time!
Where to Plant a Philodendron Brasil
It is a tropical plant that is typically grown as a houseplant – thus, as we noted earlier, the best place to grow it is in a pot or a hanging basket. Alternatively, if you need to have it outdoors, it’ll need to be in a consistently warm climate.
When growing it indoors, place the plant near a window that gets bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, however, as this can cause the leaves to turn yellow and burn. If you don’t have a bright spot you can also just grow it under fluorescent light – it should work just as well.
If you choose to grow it outside, however, you’ll need to ensure that you select a spot that has bright yet indirect light as well as well-drained soil. These plants can also grow in partial shade but they may not have as much variegation.
Note, however, the Philodendron Brasil isn’t exactly known to be tolerant of frost, so it should be brought indoors or protected during cold weather.
How to Plant a Philodendron Brasil
Planting Philodendron Brasil successfully requires that carefully follow these steps:
- Choose a pot with drainage holes at the bottom – a plastic container is a good option since it’s lightweight and doesn’t dry out as fast as a clay pot.
- Fill the pot with well-draining potting soil. You can use a commercial mix for houseplants or make your own by mixing equal parts peat moss, perlite and vermiculite.
- Remove the plant from its current container, gently loosen the roots if they’re pot-bound and remove any dead or damaged roots.
- Place the plant in the pot and backfill it with soil, making sure the plant is at the same level as it was in the original container.
- Water the soil thoroughly to help settle it and remove any air pockets.
- Place the pot in a spot that receives bright, indirect light – such as near an east or west-facing window, if possible.
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilise the plant every four to six weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertiliser.
- Keep an eye out for pests and diseases. Make sure you treat them quickly and properly if you do notice anything out of the ordinary!
What is the Meaning of a Philodendron Brasil?
“Philodendron” comes from the Greek words “philo”, meaning loving, and “dendron”, meaning tree, referring to the plant’s tendency to cling to trees in its native habitat.
The specific epithet “Brasil” refers to its origin, as it’s a variety of the Philodendron plant that is native to tropical regions of Brazil. It’s also known as “Brazil” or “Brazilian Philodendron” due to its place of origin.
The plant’s symbolic meaning, on the other hand, differs between cultures and in varying contexts. However, in general, Philodendrons are associated with the idea of family and home, as they’re often grown indoors and can create a warm and inviting atmosphere. They’re also known for their ability to purify the air by removing toxins, which can be seen as a symbol of renewal and fresh beginnings.
Some cultures, however, also associate Philodendrons with prosperity, good luck and wealth. The lush green leaves of a Philodendron Brasil can also symbolise growth, fertility and abundance – it’s all about who you ask.
Does Philodendron Brasil Grow Fast?
Philodendron Brasil is considered a slow-growing plant, so it may take some time for it to reach its full size. The rate of growth can depend on several factors such as light, temperature, humidity and fertilisation.
When growing in bright, indirect light provided with consistent moisture, it can grow relatively quickly. However, if it’s grown in low light or if it’s not getting enough water or nutrients, it may grow more slowly.
It’s also essential to note that Philodendron Brasil, like many houseplants, typically grows slower than outdoor plants. With proper care, you can expect your plant to grow a few inches per year, reaching a mature size of up to about half a metre, perhaps a little higher.
Does Philodendron Brasil Like to Climb?
The simple answer is yes – Philodendron Brasil is a climbing plant and it’ll benefit from support such as a trellis or moss pole. It’s native to Brazil and it’s an evergreen vine that produces glossy heart-shaped leaves. The leaves change colour from chartreuse when they’re young to a dark green as they get older and more mature.
How Do You Make Philodendron Brasil More Bushy?
To make your Philodendron Brasil more bushy, there are several ways to do so:
- Pruning: Prune back the plant’s long vine-like stems to encourage bushier growth. Make sure to cut back to a node or leaf.
- Fertilise: Feed your plant with a balanced fertiliser every four to six weeks during the growing season.
- Provide support: Provide the plant with a moss pole or trellis to climb. The plant will naturally grow bushier as it climbs.
- Provide enough light: Ensure that your plant is getting enough light. Philodendron Brasil prefers bright, indirect light, so if it isn’t getting enough, it’ll start to stretch.
- Pinching: Pinch back the tips of the leaves when they’re young to encourage bushier growth. This will help the plant grow more full.
Should I Mist My Philodendron Brasil?
Misting isn’t necessary for Philodendron Brasil, but it can be beneficial to increase humidity around the plant – it originates from tropical regions, after all.
However, misting can be beneficial if you live in a dry area or if your home’s heating or air conditioning system tends to dry out the air. A simple way to increase humidity is to just place a tray of water near the plant.
However, be cautious of overdoing it. The leaves should be dry before nightfall to prevent fungal or bacterial issues. Keep in mind that too much humidity can lead to mould growth or other problems.