There’s a new plant taking over the internet, and it’s Philodendron Lacerum! This little guy is easy to care for and is perfect for anyone who wants a low-maintenance houseplant.
Philodendron Lacerum doesn’t require a lot of light or water, making it the ideal choice for people who don’t have a green thumb.
This blog post will discuss everything you need to know about Philodendron Lacerum, including how to care for it and where you can buy it.
Introduction
Philodendron Lacerum tops the list for the best suitable houseplants that are unbelievably low maintenance and easy to care for.
Its green to dark grey multi-lobed leaves with sharp-toothed edges gives it a unique look that complements its surroundings. It is famous for its broad foliage having leaves of about 20 to 50 cm.
Its glossy and glimmery upper leaves put the cherry on top! Reaching its full maturity, the plant can grow up to 30 feet tall if uninterrupted.
And much like the other philodendrons, it has a climbing habit, which makes it perfect for large room corners along the wall or a pole.
It likes to blossom under the canopy of large trees in its natural habitat, clinging to large branches. Philodendron Lacerum is a potential houseplant often kept in indoor spaces such as offices, libraries, and houses under bright indirect sunlight or partial shade.
It is highly versatile when it comes to its care. It is toxic as they contain highly poisonous matters that might create side effects if taken in massive amounts.
Here are some tips and tricks to ensure Philodendron Lacerum’s healthy and happy growth.
Philodendron Lacerum Quick Summary Guide
Sunlight: indirect, bright light
Water: Allow the topsoil to dry out between watering
Fertilizer: during the growing season
Temperature: warm temperatures, between 65-80 degrees F.
Pests/diseases: Philodendrons are relatively pest and disease free. However, they can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale, and spider mites.
Pruning: Philodendrons do not require much pruning. However, you can remove any yellow or dead leaves as needed.
Soil: well-draining
Height: a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 30 feet in height.
Toxicity: Yes, toxic if ingested, so keep it out of reach of children and pets.
Pot size: Philodendrons can be pot-bound, so choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current pot.
Origin and History
Philodendron Lacerum shares a dense history. Heinrich Wilhelm Schott explained the species scientifically first in 1829. As its name suggests, the origins of this plant can be traced down to the genus Philodendron.
It is a purely epiphyte exotic plant that loves to grow in tropical or sub-tropical areas, where moisture remains compacted in the air. It belongs to the Araceae family and can be looked up in the deep forests of South America, including Jamaica, Costa Rica, and Panama.
It is known for its foliage since the leaves spread out so that it gives an elephant ear shape, which is how it got its common name, i.e., elephant ear plant and toothed Philodendron.
Philodendron Lacerum Care Guide
Light
Your Philodendron Lacerum is versatile when it comes to its light requirements. It can tolerate well in all types of lights, which is how it is perfect for keeping indoors and outdoors; since it is a tropical plant, damp low lights or bright indirect sunlight suits it well.
However, it is crucial to know the light requirements of your particular Philodendron before the purchase to ensure it doesn’t get too little or too much light. Try to avoid sudden changes concerning light to prevent sunburns or withering.
A window receiving damped sunlight will be a good option for your plant. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves. Also, don’t place it in too low light. It will make the plant leggy.
I like to use a grow light for my Philodendron Lacerum. I find that it helps the plant to grow faster and stay healthier.
If you live in an area that doesn’t get much sunlight during the winter, then a grow light can be a great way to ensure your Philodendron receives the light it needs.
Soil
A tropical plant like Philodendron Lacerum stays healthy if you provide ample, rich organic soil to complement its growth. If the soil is too moist or too dry, it could stunt the plant’s growth and may result in root rot.
Therefore, a good
I often use a bit of charcoal to help with drainage and to keep the
Quality soil helps keep air circulation while allowing excess water to drain through the pot. Considering its growth pattern, you can also place a mossy pole or burlap for the plant to climb over it.
Water
Philodendron Lacerum requires moderate watering for its nourishment. You may need to water them more frequently in dry seasons than in moist ones.
Fill up the pot with adequate water and see if the water is draining from the pot’s end. Make sure to aerial water roots as well if present. Always check the soil before watering the plant to ensure it is dry at least 1-2 inches from the top.
Overwatering the plant might cause the roots to lose their absorption rate. Interestingly, Philodendron Lacerum can occasionally survive dry seasons, too, so you might not have to worry too much about watering it.
Fertilizer
Philodendron Lacerum enjoys being fed with liquid fertilizers. Use organic and diluted fertilizer once every month during its active growing sessions in summers and springs.
Your plant may not require frequent fertilization during winters or falls; once every two to three months will be good enough.
Also, commercial fertilizers are often harsh and may damage the roots if given an overdose. Be mindful of diluting the feeding and water your plants before supplementing them.
Temperature
Toothed philodendrons flourish well in warm and humid temperatures. If kept indoors, keep the temperature of the room between 55°F to 80°F or 18°C to 26°C.
However, if it is outdoors, ensure it isn’t too hot or dry. Keep them away from the direct scorching sun in hot seasons or ventilation systems such as air conditioners or doors during winters.
Extreme lower temperatures can hinder the plant from growing. You can enjoy healthy and stunning green foliage all year if the temperatures are proper.
Humidity
Tropical plants usually thrive in moist and humid environments. For these toothed philodendrons to grow more quickly, you need to maintain an ideal humidity of around 55-65%.
It isn’t a big hustle unless you live in an arid area. Even then, you might only need to occasionally mist your plant three to four days a week or keep a shallow tray filled with water and stones below the pot to maintain ideal humidity.
You can also consider buying a humidifier as per your choice. Once again, if the plants are wilting, consider keeping them near the washing area or kitchen, where those areas are more humid.
Pruning
Philodendron Lacerum care is a low-maintenance plant. You don’t need to prune it often. However, if you are keeping it indoors, you might need to prune it to keep the plant compact and in shape since it can grow up to 15 feet taller.
Otherwise, the plants rarely require trimming and happily cling to the poles or burlap. Moreover, if you see any dead, infected, or dried leaves, you need to prune them to avoid damaging the nearby fellow leaves and petioles.
Repotting
Philodendron Lacerum needs space to spread its roots freely for better growth. Each year, as the plants get taller and healthier, the roots might get squeezed in and start outgrowing at the bottom of the pot.
In addition, the nutrients and minerals in the soil might be depleted by the end of each year. That is an indication for you to begin repotting. Spring is an ideal season to start repotting as the plant grows actively.
You can use a pot size inches wider and longer than the existing one. Carefully detach the roots and place them in the new pot with fresh potting soil, ideally with a blend of potassium, magnesium, nitrogen, and phosphorus.
Also, don’t forget to put little holes at the bottom of the container to ensure sufficient drainage and aeration.
Propagating the Lacerum
Try propagating if you are already impressed by your plant and want to bring another into the house.
It is a more effortless and cost-friendly way to create a beautiful plant, just like your previous one! Stem cutting is the best way to propagate your toothed Philodendron.
In early spring, cut a small piece of the stem along with its leaf and place it in a clear container filled with water.
Change the water daily with the clean one to ensure it stays decontaminated. In two to three weeks, the roots will begin to sprout, and then you can safely transfer them into a new pot. Your new healthy gorgeous-looking plant will be ready to bloom.
Pet Safety/Toxicity
Philodendron Lacerum, just like its fellow mates, has high toxicity levels. Relax! You only need to consume a sufficient amount of leaves or stems to experience any severe side effects.
However, pets are small, and thus they are prone to get poisonous if they ingest large amounts of the plant. They may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness, i.e. gastrointestinal problems since it contains oxalate calcium crystals.
In case of ingestion, take your pet to a veterinarian immediately. Also, keep your pets away from Philodendron Lacerum plants as a preventative measure.
Common Problems
So far, Philodendron Lacerum is not problematic if you’re taking good care of it. Watch out for common pests every once in a while, including mealybugs, spider mites, or aphids.
They tend to eat the plant leaves, punching holes in them. If you find them, clean the affected area with warm water and apply Neem oil or alcohol with a cotton applicator. If needed, you can use herbicidal pesticides as well.
Your toothed Philodendron might catch a deadly bacterial disease named Erwinia blight. It’s life-threatening if the plants are kept in direct sunlight with no air ventilation and poor humidity for a long time.
You can detect it in its early stages by looking at its stems. You may find black spots that may travel to the leaves gradually.
In this case, it is advisable to trim the affected area and use an antibacterial agent to keep the rest of the plant safe.
FAQ
Q. Why is Philodendron Lacerum called a toothed philodendron?
A. Philodendron Lacerum is called a toothed philodendron because of its deeply lobed leaves that look like they have teeth. These beautiful leaves can grow up to 18 inches long and 12 inches wide!
Q. How often should I water Philodendron Lacerum?
A. Philodendron Lacerum should be watered about once a week or when the soil is dry to the touch. It’s ideal keeping a calendar tracker to help you track your watering schedule!
Q. How often should I fertilize Philodendron Lacerum?
A. Philodendron Lacerum should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) and every month during the dormant season (winter). These plants will do fine with a regular household fertilizer. Just be sure to follow the package directions!
Q. Is Philodendron Lacerum poisonous to pets?
A. Philodendron Lacerum is poisonous to pets if they ingest large amounts of the plant. They may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness, i.e., gastrointestinal problems, since it contains oxalate calcium crystals.
Q. Where can I buy a Philodendron Lacerum?
A. Philodendron Lacerum can be bought at most nurseries or online plant retailers. If you can find a plant group to swap a stem cutting with, that’s even better! These plants are easy to propagate from stem cuttings.
Q. How do I know if my Philodendron Lacerum has a bacterial disease?
A. You can detect it in its early stages by looking at its stems. You may find black spots that may travel to the leaves gradually. In this case, it is advisable to trim the affected area and use an antibacterial agent to keep the rest of the plant safe.
Philodendron Lacerum might catch a deadly bacterial disease named Erwinia blight. It’s life-threatening if the plants are kept in direct sunlight with no air ventilation and poor humidity for a long time.
Philodendron Lacerum plants are also susceptible to root rot, so make sure the plant is not sitting in water. If you see any of these signs, it’s best to take your plant to a professional for diagnosis and treatment.
Q. Is the Philodendron Lacerum rare?
A. Philodendron Lacerum is not rare philodendron species, but it is becoming more popular due to its unique appearance and easy care requirements. A mature plant might cost you upwards of $100, but Philodendron Lacerum is worth the investment!
Q. What are some similar Philodendron Plants?
A. Philodendron Lacerum is a member of the Philodendron genus, which contains over 500 species of plants.
Some similar Philodendron plants include Philodendron scandens (sweetheart plant), Philodendron hederaceum (philodendron), and Philodendron bipinnatifidum (tree Philodendron). All of these plants are known for their easy care requirements and beautiful foliage
Q. What are the leaves of Philodendron Lacerum used for?
A. Philodendron Lacerum leaves can be used for various purposes, including as natural insecticides and air purifiers. Plants are also known to be effective at absorbing excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
Q. Can I plant the Lacerum outdoors?
A. Philodendron Lacerum can be planted outdoors, but it is best suited for indoor growing. Philodendron Lacerum plants prefer warm temperatures and high humidity levels, making them ideal for growing in greenhouses or conservatories.
Final Thoughts
Philodendron Lacerum is a beautiful and unique plant that is becoming increasingly popular due to its easy care requirements and stunning appearance.
If you are looking for a new plant to add to your collection, Philodendron Lacerum is worth considering!
Just keep an eye out for bacterial diseases and root rot, and your Philodendron Lacerum will be sure to thrive. Thanks for reading, and happy planting!
Do you have any questions or comments about Philodendron Lacerum? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!
