Philodendron pastazanum, an impressive philo
Philodendron pastazanum
- Exposures
- Sun, Half-shade
- Hardiness (USDA)
- 11b (7.2°C ≤ T° < 10°C)
- Lifecycle
- Perennial
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Family
- Araceae
- Genus
- Philodendron
- Species
- Philodendron pastazanum
Philodendron pastazanum, or "pasta" to its friends, owes its name to the province of Pastaza in Ecuador, where it originated. Its immense, heart-shaped leaves spread along the ground. Good news: this foliage can also flourish in our homes... Provided we have enough space.
How to recognize Philodendron pastazanum?
A moderate-growing perennial, Philodendron pastazanum reaches a maximum height of 90 cm. Its main distinguishing feature is its creeping habit: its thick rhizome grows horizontally on the surface of the substrate and can exceed one meter in length.
Its leaves are borne by a long stalk that can be up to a meter long. They form an almost perfect heart. They are 60 to 65 cm long and 40 to 50 cm wide. The glossy green, sometimes slightly velvety, leaf blade is criss-crossed by very pronounced, lighter veins.
Flowering, rare indoors, consists of a reddish spathe surrounding a white to cream spadix, typical of aroids.
Is Philodendron pastazanum toxic?
Yes, like all philodendrons, it contains calcium oxalate crystals throughout its tissues. If ingested, they can cause :
- Mouth irritation;
- Digestive pain;
- Inflammation of mucous membranes.
Contact with the sap may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
We recommend keeping the plant out of the reach of children and pets. Also remember to wear gloves when repotting or pruning, and to wash your hands after handling your philo.
Our care tips
Philodendron pastazanum are easy to care for. The plant requires a little attention, a suitable pot and light to develop its decorative foliage.
Watering
Philodendron pastazanum are the enemy of excess water. Before giving your specimen a drink, always make sure the soil is at least five centimetres dry.
Like many plants, the plant prefers rainwater. But it's fine with tap water. Just make sure it's at room temperature.
Remove any water stagnating in the cup under the pot. It can rot the roots.
Misting
In addition to regular watering, misting prevents the plant from drying out due to heat in summer and heating in winter.
Philodendron pastazanum do not like hard water. Preferrainwater or filtered water.
Repotting
In spring, transfer your Philodendron pastazanum to a larger pot, so that it can continue to grow.
Your Philodendron pastazanum is a creeping plant with shallow roots. It will thrive best in a wide, shallow pierced pot, such as a window box.
Fill the container with potting soil for green plants. To improve drainage, you can incorporate around 20% perlite.
Install your Philodendron pastazanum at the end of the pot. The terminal bud should face forward and have enough space to continue growing. Bury only the roots; the rhizomes should simply rest on the surface of the substrate.
Finish by watering to promote good contact between roots and soil.
Fertilization
You can stimulate the development of your plant during its growth phase, in spring and summer, with fertilizer.
To promote the growth of your Philodendron pastazanum, use a green plant fertilizer.
Cleaning
Over time, dust accumulates on the leaves. It interferes with photosynthesis and slows plant growth. You can remove it with a clean, damp cloth.
Contact with the plant may cause irritation. Wear gloves and wash your hands when handling the plant.
Contact with the plant may cause irritation. Wear gloves and wash your hands when handling the plant.
Taking cuttings
Cutting is carried out during the strong growth phase, generally in spring and early summer.
Remove a portion of stem with at least two knots, using a clean, sharp tool. You can use pruning shears or scissors, for example.
Once you have obtained your cutting, place it in a vase or glass filledwith water at room temperature. Make sure the node is completely submerged.
Place your cutting in a bright spot, but out of direct sunlight. Change the water regularly to keep it clear.
Place your cutting in a bright spot, but out of direct sunlight. Change the water regularly to keep it clear.
Frequently asked questions
Where to place Philodendron pastazanum?
Philodendron pastazanum is grown indoors outside tropical climates. It appreciates bright, indirect light. Place it near an east- or north-facing window, or a little to the rear of a south-facing window.
It also likes a warm, humid atmosphere. Avoid draughts and sudden temperature changes.
Is Philodendron pastazanum a creeper or a climber?
In its natural environment, Philodendron pastazanum is a creeping plant. It grows horizontally thanks to its thick rhizome, and does not spontaneously develop vertical stems for climbing.
It is possible to force it to grow on a support, but its growth will be faster if you let its rhizome run on the surface of the substrate in an elongated container, such as a window box.
Is Philodendron pastazanum rare?
Philodendron pastazanum was long considered a rare plant, particularly in Europe. Today, it is more accessible thanks to specialized cultivation and online nurseries. However, certain forms or specimens with very distinctive leaves, such as philodendron pastazanum 'Silver, remain highly sought-after by collectors.
Diseases / Threats
Information
- Lifecycle
- Perennial
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Exposures
- SunHalf-shade
- Substrate
- Humus soil
- Planting method
- Planter
- Categories
- IndoorRhizomeHerbaceous
- Tags
- Cold-sensitiveLarge potToxic
- Origin
- South America
- Hardiness (USDA)
- 11b (7.2°C ≤ T° < 10°C)
- Leaf colors
- Dark greenLight green
- Flower color
- Red
Discover plants from the same family
Philodendron pastazanum 'Silver
Philodendron pastazanum 'Silver'
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Philodendron hederaceum 'Brasil'
Philodendron Lemon Lime
Philodendron hederaceum 'Lemon Lime'
Find out more
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