Philodendron bipennifolium aka Fiddle Leaf Philodendron

Fiddle-leaf philodendron is considered an easy houseplant. NC State Extension describes the genus as low-maintenance with a rapid growth rate, and University of Wisconsin Horticulture notes that it tolerates a range of light levels — including low light — and forgives the occasional missed watering. The main risks are root rot from soggy soil and leaf scorch from direct sun.

Climbing philodendrons are described by NC State Extension as fast-growing, with vining species reaching anywhere from roughly 1 m to 4-5 m (3-15 ft) when given a suitable support. Leaves likewise enlarge as the plant matures, and indoor specimens trained on a moss pole develop the characteristic lobed, fiddle-shaped foliage more strongly than free-trailing ones.

The plant prefers warm, tropical temperatures. University of Wisconsin Horticulture recommends daytime temperatures of 75-85°F (24-29°C) and nights of 65-70°F (18-21°C); NC State Extension cites a similar 65-85°F range and warns against cold drafts. Cold exposure below this range can damage leaves.

Like other philodendrons, P. bipennifolium produces an aroid inflorescence consisting of a leaf-like spathe enclosing a tube-shaped spadix. The spathe is typically bicoloured (white or green with red or crimson tones) and waxy, and the spadix generates noticeable heat — around 35°C — to attract pollinators. Flowers are rarely seen on cultivated indoor plants.

The species is most commonly sold under several interchangeable common names that reflect its leaf shape: fiddle-leaf philodendron, horsehead philodendron, and saddle-leaf philodendron. The five-lobed leaf — resembling either a fiddle, a horse's head, or a saddle depending on the eye of the beholder — is its defining ornamental feature.

Outdoor cultivation is limited to frost-free tropical and subtropical climates. NC State Extension lists USDA hardiness zones 10a through 12a for the genus; outside those zones the plant is grown indoors or moved outside only during warm months.

Vining philodendrons are easily pruned to shape and to control length; cuttings can be reused for propagation. NC State Extension and University of Wisconsin Horticulture both note that stem cuttings root readily, so trimmings are not wasted.

Use a loose, well-draining potting mix high in organic matter — University of Wisconsin Horticulture recommends a quick-draining general-purpose houseplant soil and warns against letting the pot stand in water. NC State Extension specifies a loamy or sandy texture with an acidic pH (below 6.0). Repot when the plant becomes root-bound.

Both NC State Extension and University of Wisconsin Horticulture state that philodendrons are propagated by stem cuttings or air layering, with the latter noting cuttings can be taken in any season. Cuttings root readily in moist potting mix or water.

Yellowing leaves on a philodendron most commonly indicate overwatering or root rot. NC State Extension specifically warns that overwatering causes root rot in this genus, and University of Wisconsin Horticulture cautions against letting the pot sit in standing water.

Brown patches or scorched edges typically point to too much direct sun or to leaf-spot disease from excess surface moisture. NC State Extension notes that direct sun scorches philodendron foliage and that excessive moisture promotes leaf-spot disease.

Drooping foliage usually signals either underwatering (the soil has dried out) or root damage from saturated, poorly drained soil. NC State Extension and University of Wisconsin Horticulture both emphasize maintaining evenly moist — but never soggy — soil for the genus.

While the genus is described by NC State Extension as fast-growing, slow growth indoors is most often tied to insufficient light, cool temperatures, or a depleted potting mix. The University of Wisconsin Horticulture Extension recommends regular dilute water-soluble fertiliser during active growth.

NC State Extension lists mealybugs, aphids, scale, thrips, and spider mites as the main insect pests of philodendrons, along with leaf-spot diseases that develop when foliage is kept too wet.

In the wild, philodendrons are pollinated by scarab beetles. Wikipedia's genus article reports that male beetles in subfamilies Rutelinae and Dynastinae (especially Cyclocephala and Erioscelis) are drawn to the inflorescence by pheromones from sterile staminate flowers; the thermogenic spadix amplifies the scent and provides a warm mating chamber where the beetles pick up and deliver pollen.

Fiddle Leaf Philodendron’s native range is Central, South America, and the Caribbean.

Fiddle Leaf Philodendron should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Fiddle Leaf Philodendron loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

To ensure optimal growth, the Fiddle Leaf Philodendron prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

The Fiddle Leaf Philodendron does not need extra humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their root system, making soil watering the best way to provide humidity to your plants.

The Fiddle Leaf Philodendron should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Fiddle Leaf Philodendron is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

The Fiddle Leaf Philodendron lacks a typical dormancy pattern. If there is a marked reduction in growth, ensure that the plant is receiving enough sunlight and water to thrive.