Philodendron Brasil, a hybrid with variegated foliage

As its name suggests, Philodendron Brasil comes from... Brazil! But you're more likely to come across this Aracae on a florist's stall than in the Amazon rainforest. The plant is a natural hybrid of Philodendron hederaceum. It was discovered by a Brazilian who saw in its evergreen foliage the colors of his country's flag.

Philodendron Brasil is a green plant with a drooping habit. It doesn't grow taller than 20 centimetres. But it can reach a spread of 55 centimetres, and its vines can measure up to 60 centimetres in length.

The five-centimeter-diameter stems are smooth. When young, they are pink. Over time, they turn orange and then light green. Each node supports a stalk about seven centimetres long.

Suitable for pot and indoor cultivation, Philodendron Brasil's leaves are ten centimetres long and eight centimetres wide. They are heart-shaped with an elongated tip. The smooth, almost waxy blades are green on both sides. But the upper surface has a light green or yellow center. When the plant receives enough light, the patterns extend to the veins and margins.

Like philodendron Lemon Lime, Philodendron Brasil does not flower. Nor does it produce fruit.

It does, however, secrete calcium crystals, a substance toxic to animals and humans, which are found in the leaves, stems and sap. Keep your plant out of reach of children and four-legged friends. And remember to wear gloves when handling it.