If you are looking for a really cool plant to add to your collection, check out the Philodendron Bipennifolium. Also known as the Fiddleleaf philodendron or horse head philodendron, this plant has beautiful, glossy, fiddle-shaped leaves that stand out in any room.
This plant is not only easy to grow but also easy to care for, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced plant parents alike.
In this care guide, we will go over everything you need to know about the Philodendron Bipennifolium, including:
- Where to place your plant
- The best soil and potting mix for your plant
- How to water your plant
- Fertilizing your plant
- Propagating your plant
So, if you are ready to learn about the Philodendron Fiddleleaf, let’s get started!
Introduction to the Philodendron Bipennifolium
The Philodendron Bipennifolium is a tropical plant that originates from the rain forests of South America. In its natural habitat, the Bipennifolium can grow up to 20 feet tall, but when grown indoors, it will typically only reach 3-4 feet in height.
This makes this type of plant an excellent choice for those who want to add a touch of the tropics to their home without taking up too much space.
Caring for these plants generally consist of indirect lighting, a regimented watering routine, fertilizing once a month, cleaning of the leaves, and gentle pruning from time to time.
The Philodendron plant is a beautiful, low-maintenance addition to any home. It is known for its large, glossy leaves and its ability to thrive in low-light conditions.
The leaves are 2-3 feet long and have a profoundly lobed shape. This unique-looking Philodendron plant is a vine climber. It would grow up trees in its natural habitat, but when grown in a pot, it will spill over the sides.
The Philodendron Fiddleleaf is an evergreen plant that blooms in the summertime. The flowers are small and greenish-white in color. The plant is similar to the Philodendron Florida Ghost plant in look but varies in growth and coloring.
Quick Care Summary Guide:
- The Philodendron Bipennifolium does best in bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light.
- Water when the top few inches of soil are dry. Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering.
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- This plant is poisonous if ingested. Keep out of reach of children and pets
- The Horse Head Philodendron will grow 2-3 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
- This plant is native to the tropical rain forests of South America.
Philodendron Bipennifolium Classification
The Philodendron bipennifolium, also known as the fiddle-leaf philodendron, is a species of flowering plant in the family Araneae. It is native to the rainforests of Central and South America, where it grows on trees. It is a hemi-epiphyte, meaning it grows on tree trunks but does not have roots in the soil.
The bipennifolium is a member of the genus Philodendron, which contains around 500 species of tropical plants. Most species in this genus are climbers, and many are popular houseplants.
The Philodendron Fiddleleaf is a herbaceous vine that can grow up to 10 m. The leaves are large and variable in shape but are typically oval-shaped with deeply lobed margins. The mature leaves are dark green and have a glossy surface.
This plant can produce small, white flowers that are borne on inflorescences. Small, orange fruits follow the flowers. If kept as a houseplant, it would be very rare to see the flowers.
Plant Care Basics
The Philodendron bipennifolium is a beautiful and unique plant that makes a great addition to any home. Although it is not a complex plant to care for, there are a few basic things you should know to keep your tropical plant happy and healthy.
First, this plant prefers bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight will scorch the leaves, so keeping your philodendron bipennifolium out of direct sunlight is best. Second, the bipennifolium likes to be kept moist but not wet. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out before watering again.
Third, this plant does not want to be fertilized too often. Once every two to three months should be sufficient.
If you choose to grow this philodendron indoors in a pot, you’ll need a moss pole or trellis for it to climb.
Be sure to select a large enough pot to accommodate the plant’s roots and drainage holes.
Here are seven simple care instructions to follow; you will be sure to enjoy your Philodendron bipennifolium for many years.
1. Watering Needs
The Philodendron bipennifolium is a lush plant native to the rain forests of South America. It is a fast-growing climbing plant that can reach up to 20 feet high when grown outdoors.
The philodendron is a tropical plant requiring warm temperatures and high humidity to thrive. It should be watered regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out in between watering.
You can also use a chopstick or your finger to check the soil’s moisture levels.
Always use lukewarm water when watering your plant to avoid shocking the plant. I water my plant every 1-2 weeks, and he seems pretty good with that. (And yes, I call my plant a him- his official name is Horsehead Phil II.) If you live in a hot or dry environment, you may need to water more often.
If you can provide clean water free of chemicals, that is ideal. I have a reverse osmosis water filtration system installed in my home, so I use that to water my plants. Often too much fluoride or chlorine in our water can cause leaf spots.
2. Humidity & Temperature
Philodendron bipennifolium, also known as tree philodendron, is a philodendron native to Central and South America. It is a large evergreen climber with dark green, glossy leaves. The optimum humidity for this plant is around 60-70%.
Philodendron bipennifolium prefers temperatures that are between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature in your home drops below 60 degrees, it’s time to bring the plant indoors. The leaves turn brown and drop off if the temperature gets too cold.
This plant also thrives in high humidity environments, so regularly misting the leaves will help keep the plant healthy. You can use a pebble tray to ensure there is always some moisture in the air.
3. Fertilizer
The bipennifolium is a fast-growing plant and, as such, benefits from being fertilized regularly. I like to use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) that I dilute to half strength and feed my plants every two weeks during the growing season.
You can also use a slow-release fertilizer if you prefer. Just be sure not to over-fertilize, as this can burn the roots and damage the plant. Never pour the fertilizer directly onto the leaves, as this can damage the roots and leaves.
It would be best to fertilize more often in the spring and summer when the plant is actively growing and less in the fall and winter when growth slows down.
4. Best Potting Mix
There are a few things to consider when choosing the best potting mix for your Philodendron:
- This plant likes to be in a moist environment, so make sure your potting mix can retain moisture well.
- This plant’s delicate roots, so choose a light and airy blend.
- Because this plant is native to the tropics, it prefers a warm environment.
- Therefore, choose a potting mix that is well-draining and can provide good aeration.
I like to use a potting mix of equal parts sphagnum peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. This blend provides good drainage while still retaining moisture well. You can add some organic matter to the mix, such as compost or coco coir.
When it comes to potting mixes, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The best potting mix for your Philodendron bipennifolium will depend on your specific plant’s needs, temperature, and sunlight.
However, following the above guidelines should help you choose a combination that will work well for this particular plant.
5. Sun Light
There are a few things to keep in mind when finding the ideal lighting for your plant. Philodendrons thrive in bright, indirect light, so a spot near a window would be perfect.
If you can’t provide bright, indirect light, you can also give your plant a few hours of sunlight daily.
Keep an eye on the leaves, as they can scorch if they get too much sun.
If you are having trouble finding a spot in your home that meets these requirements, placing the plant near an east or west-facing window should do the trick.
6. Propagation for Philodendron Bipennifolium
The bipennifolium can be propagated by seed, stem, or by division. Check out each method below in great detail to give you the best outcome possible.
Seed Propagation
Simply sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix to propagate by seed and keep the soil moist. The seeds should germinate within 2-4 weeks.
Division Propagation
To propagate by division, carefully remove the plant from its pot and divide it into sections, ensuring each section has at least one leaf and one root. Plant the sections in their pots and water well. The division should be done in spring or summer.
Stem Cuttings
Philodendron bipennifolium can also be propagated by stem cuttings. To do this:
- Cut a 4-6 inch piece of stem from the plant, including a leaf node.
- Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix.
- Keep the soil moist, and the cutting should root within 4-6 weeks.
Air Layering
Air layering is a propagation technique that can propagate many different plants, including philodendrons.
- To air layer a philodendron, start by finding a healthy stem at least a few inches long.
- Cut a shallow groove in the branch, and then insert a piece of sphagnum moss into the groove.
- Wrap the moss tightly around the stem and secure it with clear plastic wrap. Ensure the plastic wrap is snug against the branch but not so tight that it cuts into the stem.
- Next, make a small hole in the bottom of the plastic wrap, and insert a toothpick into the hole. This will allow the stem to breathe. Finally, place the branch in a water container, ensuring the moss is moist.
- Place the container in a warm, bright location, and wait for roots to form. Once roots have been created, cut the stem just below the roots, and then pot the plant in some fresh potting mix.
7. Plant Growth
The bipennifolium is a fast-growing plant, so it won’t be long before you see some new growth. This plant can grow anywhere from 6-12 inches per year, so you will need to provide it with enough space to spread out.
To encourage even more growth, fertilize your plant every 2-3 months during the growing season. Use a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, and be sure to follow the directions on the package.
It is a vine plant, so it will need some type of support to grow. You can provide this support by staking the plant or growing it on a trellis or other structure.
To keep your Philodendron looking its best, it is essential to prune it regularly. This will help to encourage new growth and keep the plant looking full and healthy.
To prune your plant, cut back any vines that have become too long. You can also remove any yellow or brown leaves and any dead or dying branches.
Philodendron Varieties and Similar Plants
There are many different Philodendron bipennifolium plants, each with its unique features. However, these plants share some similarities, such as their large, heart-shaped leaves and vining growth habits. Some of the most popular Philodendron bipennifolium varieties include :
- Philodendron erubescens – This variety has dark green leaves with red undersides. It is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 10 feet in length.
- Philodendron hederaceum – This variety is known as the “heartleaf philodendron.” It is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 10 feet in length. The leaves are dark green with lighter green veins.
- Philodendron scandens – This variety is known as the “sweetheart plant.” It has dark green leaves with delicate green veins. The leaves are heart-shaped, and the plant can reach up to 10 feet in length.
If you are looking for a plant that is similar to Philodendron bipennifolium, you may want to consider some of the following options :
- Pothos – Pothos is a type of evergreen vine native to the tropical areas of the world. These plants have heart-shaped leaves and can reach up to 10 feet in length. Take a look at the Snow Queen pothos.
- Ivy – Ivy is a type of evergreen vine native to Europe and Asia. These plants have heart-shaped leaves and can reach up to 50 feet in length
- Hoya – Hoya is a type of evergreen vine that is native to Asia and Australia. These plants have heart-shaped leaves and can reach up to 10 feet in length. Check out the Hoya Bella for an idea of the plant.
Philodendron Bipennifolium Diseases & Pests
Philodendron bipennifolium, also known as philodendron horse head, is a beautiful popular houseplant. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests.
The most common disease affecting philodendron bipennifolium is root rot. This is caused by overwatering, leading to the plant’s roots rotting. If you suspect your plant has root rot, it’s essential to take action immediately.
Stop watering the plant and allow the soil to dry out completely. Then, remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. If they are black and mushy, the plant has root rot and must be disposed of.
The most common pests that affect philodendrons are aphids and mealybugs. Aphids are small, green insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing it to become stunted and weakened. To remove these pests from your plant, try hosing them off with water or using insecticidal soap.
Another common pest you might find on your plant is Mealybugs. These little white bugs feed on the plant’s sap. They excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, attracting ants and other pests. To eliminate an outbreak of mealybugs, you can wipe your plant with rubbing alcohol or try a natural choice with neem oil.
Scales can also become a problem for your Philodendron bipennifolium. These pests are small, hard-shelled insects that feed on the plant’s sap. They can cause the leaves to turn yellow and eventually drop off. If you have a scale infestation, you can try horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
Using Neem Oil-
- Mix 1 teaspoon of neem oil and 1/2 teaspoon dish soap in 1 quart of water.
- Place mixture into a clean spray bottle.
- Spray the solution on the plant, being sure to cover the undersides of the leaves.
- Repeat the process every 7-10 days, or as needed, until the problem is under control.
If you notice any of these problems with your philodendron bipennifolium, take action immediately to prevent the problem from worsening.
With proper care, your Philodendron bipennifolium will thrive and provide you many years of enjoyment.
FAQ
Q: Why are my plant leaves turning yellow?
A: There are a few reasons why this might be happening. It could be due to overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Alternatively, the plant may not be getting enough light, causing the leaves to turn yellow.
Q: Is the Philodendron Bipennifolium Toxic to Pets?
A: Yes, the Philodendron bipennifolium is toxic to dogs and cats. If your pet ingests any part of the plant, it could experience vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. If you suspect your pet has consumed the plant, immediately take it to the vet.
Q: What is the ideal potting mix for my plant?
A: The ideal potting mix for Philodendron bipennifolium will depend on your specific plant’s needs. However, following the above guidelines should help you choose a combination that will work well for this particular plant.
Q: What is the ideal lighting for Philodendron bipennifolium?
A: The ideal lighting for Philodendron bipennifolium is bright, indirect light. This plant thrives near a window where it can get plenty of light without being in direct sunlight.
Q: Are the Philodendron Bipennifolium drought-tolerant plants?
A: Yes, the Philodendron bipennifolium is a drought-tolerant plant. This means it can survive periods of dryness without needing to be watered. However, it’s important to note that the plant will not thrive in these conditions and may eventually die if it doesn’t receive enough water.
Q: How Often should I replant my Bipennifolium?
A: You should replant your Bipennifolium every two to three years. This will ensure the plant has enough room to grow and stay healthy. If you notice the roots beginning to come out of the drainage holes, it’s time to replant. This means the roots are becoming stressed and could eventually die.
Q: Can I grow Philodendron bipennifolium in water?
A: No, you cannot grow Philodendron bipennifolium in water. This plant needs to be in well-draining soil that is kept moist. If you try to grow it in water, the roots will rot, and the plant will die.
Q: What is the best time of year to report my Philodendron bipennifolium?
A: The best time of year to report your Philodendron bipennifolium is in the spring. This will give the plant plenty of time to adjust to its new pot and ensure it has enough water and nutrients to grow.
Q: How often should I water the bipennifolium?
A: You should water your plant when the top inch of soil is dry. This plant prefers to be on the drier side, so make sure not to overwater it.
Q: How can I propagate my plant easy?
A: You can propagate Philodendron bipennifolium by seed or by division. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix at a depth of 1 cm. Division can be done by carefully removing a portion of the rootball, including some of the aerial roots.
Propagation should be done in spring or summer. Both propagation methods will require regular watering and a position in partial shade.
Q: What pests and diseases affect the bipennifolium?
A: This philodendron is susceptible to a few different pests and diseases. These include mealybugs, aphids, scale, spider mites, and fungal infections such as leaf spot and root rot.
To prevent pests and diseases from affecting your plant, keep an eye on it and regularly inspect the leaves and roots. If you see any signs of pest or disease, treat the plant immediately.
Conclusion
The philodendron bipennifolium is a beautiful plant that produces stunning foliage. The leaves are large and bright green and can brighten up any space. The leaves look like little fiddles or a horse face, which is why it’s also known as the Fiddle-Leaf Philodendron.
This plant is easy to care for and can thrive in various conditions. Make sure to give it bright, indirect light and well-draining soil—water when the top inch of soil is dry and fertilize monthly during the growing season. With proper care, your Philodendron bipennifolium will grow healthy and strong.
