Philodendron brandtianum aka Philodendron Sodiroi
Taxonomy
Philodendron brandtianum, known as the Silver Leaf Philodendron, is a species of plant in the genus Philodendron that is native to southern Colombia, northern Brazil and Bolivia in seasonally dry areas. It is also grown in temperate regions as a houseplant and is best known for the heavy silver variegation on its juvenile leaves, often being confused for Philodendron hederaceum and Philodendron variifolium. Its aerial roots grip the bark of trees, allowing it to climb over 20 feet tall and its large heart-shaped leaves have prominent silver or grayish-white patches. This species of Philodendron has been around for as long as 30 million years, its origins tracing to a time when South America was still connected to Antarctica!
Common names
Philodendron Sodiroi, Silver Leaf PhilodendronHow to care for Philodendron Sodiroi
Difficulty
Caring for Philodendron Sodiroi is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.
Water
Philodendron Sodiroi should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Philodendron Sodiroi 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.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Philodendron Sodiroi 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.
Dormancy
A standard dormancy pattern is absent in the Philodendron Sodiroi. If the growth slows down noticeably, make sure that adequate sunlight and water are provided to support the plant's growth.
Toxicity
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
Humidity
No extra humidity is necessary for the Philodendron Sodiroi. Absorption of water by plants is primarily done through their roots, and soil watering is the most effective method to provide humidity to your plants.
Fertilizer
Repotting the Philodendron Sodiroi should be done either when it has doubled in size or on a yearly basis, whichever occurs sooner. Fresh potting soil with all the required nutrients, refreshed annually, will provide the plant with all the necessary sustenance, making the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that plants receive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Region of origin
Philodendron Sodiroi’s native range is Central, South America, and the Caribbean.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Philodendron Genus
Philodendron quelalii Philodendron Quelalii
Philodendron lacerum Philodendron
Philodendron cordatum Heartleaf Philodendron
Philodendron hederaceum hederaceum Green
Philodendron bipennifolium Fiddle Leaf Philodendron
Philodendron tripartitum
Philodendron luxurians Philodendron Luxurians
Philodendron sodiroi Philodendron Sodiroi
Philodendron hederaceum Heart Leaf Philodendron
