Philodendron bipennifolium thrives best in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can hinder growth. Ideally, placing it near a north or east-facing window can offer sufficient indirect light.

Philodendron bipennifolium (Philodendron bipennifolium)

Also known as: Fiddle leaf philodendron, Horsehead Philodendron

Philodendron bipennifolium is a popular houseplant known for its uniquely shaped leaves that resemble a horse's head or a fiddle. It is a tropical perennial that thrives in shaded environments, making it an excellent plant for indoor gardening.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Philodendron bipennifolium

Lifespan

Philodendron bipennifolium is a perennial plant

Plant Height

3 - 6 Feet Tall

Spread

2 - 4 Feet Wide

Leaf Color

Dark Green

Flower Size

Not notable as it is a non-flowering plant

Flower Color

Not applicable

Images of Philodendron bipennifolium

Quickly Identify Philodendron bipennifolium

Look for large, deeply lobed leaves with a glossy green appearance. The leaf shape is distinct, often resembling a horse's head or a fiddle, and this is a key characteristic for identification.

Scientific Classification of Philodendron bipennifolium

Phylum

Angiosperms

Class

Monocotyledoneae

Order

Alismatales

Family

Araceae

Genus

Philodendron

Planting and Growing of Philodendron bipennifolium

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-80℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Philodendron bipennifolium?

Philodendron bipennifolium prefers soil that is evenly moist, but not waterlogged. When watering, ensure that the top inch of soil is dry to the touch before adding water. Pour about 250 ml of water slowly into the soil, allowing it to seep through and drain out of the pot's bottom. This ensures that the water reaches the root zone adequately.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Philodendron bipennifolium? ›

What should I do if my Philodendron bipennifolium is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Philodendron bipennifolium? ›

How to save an overwatered Philodendron bipennifolium? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Philodendron bipennifolium?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Partial sun is optimal for this plant, as it discourages leaf burn and promotes a balanced growth. This ensures the plant remains vibrant, with strong structural integrity and dynamic growth patterns.

Preferred Light Type ›

Solution to Achieve Ideal Light ›

Benefits of Ideal Lighting ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Philodendron bipennifolium?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 80℉

Philodendron bipennifolium thrives best in temperatures ranging from 65°F to 80°F. This range provides the optimal conditions for photosynthesis and enzymatic functions, leading to healthy growth and vibrant foliage.

What Soil is Best for Philodendron bipennifolium?

Soil type: Loam, Peat soil, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Philodendron bipennifolium thrives in well-draining soil because it prevents waterlogging and root rot by allowing excess moisture to escape easily. This characteristic is crucial for the plant's root health and overall vigor. A nutrient-rich soil provides necessary elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, essential for the healthy growth and development of Philodendron bipennifolium. This enhances leaf color and boosts overall vitality. An aerated soil structure ensures good air circulation around the roots, which helps in nutrient uptake and prevents fungal infections. This is vital for maintaining the plant's health and promoting robust growth.

How to Fertilize Philodendron bipennifolium?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Philodendron bipennifolium, it's crucial to provide balanced nutrition. Use half the recommended strength of an all-purpose liquid fertilizer, generally around 10-10-10 NPK. Apply about 5 ml per liter of water or follow the package instructions for houseplants. This ensures your plant gets the necessary nutrients without the risk of overfeeding.

How to Prune Philodendron bipennifolium?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Before you start pruning, inspect the plant for any yellowing, brown, or damaged leaves. These should be your priority to remove, as they can be a drain on the plant's resources. Trim the plant to maintain its natural shape, removing any excessively long stems that disrupt the appearance. This helps the Philodendron bipennifolium retain a tidy, lush look. When cutting, ensure that you make your cuts just above a node or a healthy leaf junction. This encourages new growth and prevents unsightly stubs that can attract pests or disease. After cutting a diseased or infested area, sterilize your tools before making another cut. This practice minimizes the risk of spreading potential infections to other parts of the plant. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Philodendron bipennifolium plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Summer, Early summer

Select a healthy Philodendron bipennifolium with mature stems. Ensure the plant is well-hydrated, as this can increase the success rate of propagation by ensuring the cuttings have sufficient internal moisture.

Choose a stem section with at least two nodes and trim it with sharp pruning shears. The presence of nodes is crucial as they contain the tissue needed to generate new roots and stems.

Prepare a pot with a mix of peat and perlite to ensure good drainage. A well-prepared environment prevents waterlogging and promotes faster rooting.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Philodendron bipennifolium plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Philodendron bipennifolium should be repotted when you notice roots growing through drainage holes, indicating it outgrew its pot, or when it becomes root-bound with growth stagnation. Spring or early summer is ideal as plants are naturally in a growth phase, minimizing stress and encouraging quick recovery.

Opt for a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current container. Ensure it has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogged roots, a common cause of root rot. A terracotta pot can help absorb excess moisture, providing a healthier root environment.

Select a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat, perlite, and orchid bark. This mix maintains moisture without becoming waterlogged, simulating the plant's natural rainforest floor conditions. The airy texture also allows roots to breathe, preventing rot and disease.

Toxicity of Philodendron bipennifolium

Is Philodendron bipennifolium toxic to cat?

Horsehead Philodendron exhibits a moderate level of toxicity in cats due to the presence of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals found within its sap, which is present in every part of the plant. When touched, the plant can cause redness and irritation of the skin, while consumption can result in swelling and a burning sensation in the mouth, tongue, and lips, along with symptoms like vomiting, drooling, and trouble swallowing. In severe cases, swelling may obstruct breathing or eating, making it essential to seek veterinary care.

Is Philodendron bipennifolium toxic to dog?

The Horsehead Philodendron poses a moderate level of toxicity to dogs. Every segment of this plant is infused with calcium oxalate crystals, which can induce both skin and gastrointestinal irritation. When dogs come in physical contact with the injured or broken parts of the plant, they may experience redness, blister formation, or irritation on their skin. Consuming any part of the plant can lead to inflammation and swelling in the mouth and throat, subsequently causing a loss of appetite and challenges in swallowing. Symptoms may also include excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, as well as vomiting and diarrhea. Fortunately, because dogs find this plant highly unpalatable, the severity of most cases is generally kept to a minimum.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

More About Toxic Techniques→