Philodendron sharoniae aka Philodendron Sharoniae

Philodendron sharoniae has moderate care requirements, making it suitable for plant enthusiasts with some experience. The main challenge is maintaining adequate humidity levels of 60% or higher, which may require a humidifier or pebble tray in typical home environments. The plant is forgiving of occasional care mistakes but needs consistent attention to watering and humidity to thrive and produce its characteristically large, pleated leaves.

Philodendron sharoniae is a fast-growing climbing epiphyte that can reach up to 3 meters (10 feet) in height when provided with proper support. The mature leaves can grow impressively long, reaching up to 3 feet (1 meter) in length with their characteristic elongated arrow shape and pleated texture. When grown with a moss pole or similar climbing structure, the internodes become shorter and leaves grow larger. Indoors, growth is typically more compact than in its native tropical habitat.

Philodendron sharoniae thrives in temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C) during the day, with nighttime temperatures around 60°F (15°C) being acceptable. The plant does not tolerate cold drafts or temperatures below 55°F (13°C), which can cause dark blotches on the foliage. Avoid placing the plant near heat sources, air conditioning vents, or drafty windows. Consistent warmth mimicking its tropical origins is essential for healthy growth.

Philodendron sharoniae can produce flowers, though blooming is rare in cultivation. Like all Araceae family members, the inflorescence consists of a spathe (a leaf-like bract, often bicolored) enclosing a spadix (a spike of tiny flowers). When the plant does bloom, it's a sign of maturity and environmental contentment. The spathe typically opens for just 25-40 hours. In the wild, the flowers are pollinated by scarab beetles attracted to the heated spadix, which can reach temperatures of 35°C during the pollination window.

Two main regional forms of Philodendron sharoniae are recognized in cultivation: 'Mosquera' and 'San Antonio' (also called 'Goat'). The Mosquera form, named after a region in Colombia, features narrower leaves with anterior lobes that don't extend far outward, often displaying darker coloration and more pronounced veins. The San Antonio form has longer anterior lobes that extend outward dramatically, creating a distinctive three-lobed appearance resembling goat horns. Both varieties share the same care requirements and characteristic pleated leaf texture.

Philodendron sharoniae can only be grown outdoors year-round in USDA hardiness zones 10-11, which provide the warm, humid tropical conditions it requires. The plant cannot tolerate temperatures below 55°F (13°C) and needs consistent humidity of 60% or higher. In temperate climates, it must be grown as a houseplant or brought indoors during cooler months. If growing outdoors in suitable zones, provide bright filtered light under a tree canopy or shade structure, mimicking its natural understory habitat.

Philodendron sharoniae requires minimal pruning. Remove any yellowed, damaged, or dead leaves by cutting them at the base of the petiole with clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. This keeps the plant looking tidy and redirects energy to healthy growth. If the plant becomes too leggy or outgrows its space, you can trim back stems, and these cuttings can be used for propagation. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can stress the plant. Always sanitize your tools before pruning to prevent disease transmission.

Repot Philodendron sharoniae every 2-3 years, or when it doubles in size or becomes root-bound—whichever comes first. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing from drainage holes, water running straight through the pot, or slowed growth despite proper care. Choose a pot only 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Spring is the ideal time to repot when the plant is entering its active growth phase. Use fresh, well-draining aroid mix with perlite, orchid bark, and charcoal.

Clean Philodendron sharoniae leaves regularly to remove dust that can block light and encourage pests. Gently wipe each leaf with a soft, damp cloth, supporting the underside with your other hand to prevent damage. For the pleated texture, you may need to carefully work into the grooves. Avoid commercial leaf shine products, which can clog the leaf pores (stomata). You can also give the plant an occasional gentle shower with lukewarm water to clean all leaves at once, which also helps boost humidity temporarily.

Philodendron sharoniae propagates readily through stem cuttings or air layering. For stem cuttings, select a healthy stem with 1-3 nodes and at least 2 leaves, cutting at a 45-degree angle just below a node. Root in water (where you can observe root development) or directly in moist, well-draining soil. Keep humidity high and provide bright indirect light. For air layering, wrap a node with moist sphagnum moss secured with plastic wrap, wait for roots to develop over several weeks, then cut below the rooted section. Spring and early summer offer the highest success rates during active growth.

Yellow leaves on Philodendron sharoniae most commonly indicate overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Check if the soil is staying too wet and ensure the pot has adequate drainage. Other causes include natural aging (older lower leaves yellowing is normal), nutrient deficiency (especially nitrogen or magnesium), or too much direct sunlight. Magnesium deficiency specifically creates V-shaped yellow areas between the veins and can be treated with diluted Epsom salt solution. Reduce watering frequency and allow the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry between waterings.

Brown tips or edges on Philodendron sharoniae typically result from underwatering, low humidity, or direct sunlight exposure. The plant needs consistent moisture and humidity levels of 60% or higher. Brown spots with yellow halos may indicate bacterial leaf spot or blight—remove affected leaves and avoid overhead watering if this occurs. Cold damage from temperatures below 55°F causes dark brown or black blotches. Over-fertilization can also cause brown leaf tips; if suspected, flush the soil with plain water and reduce fertilizer frequency.

Drooping leaves on Philodendron sharoniae usually signal a watering issue—either too much or too little. Check the soil moisture: if dry several inches down, the plant needs water; if wet and soggy, you may be overwatering which leads to root rot. Other causes include heat stress from temperatures above 85°F, sudden temperature changes, or transplant shock after repotting. Low humidity can also cause leaves to appear limp. The plant typically recovers quickly once the underlying issue is addressed and proper watering resumes.

Philodendron sharoniae is relatively pest-resistant but can be affected by common houseplant pests including mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. These cause yellowing, leaf curling, and stunted growth. Treat infestations with neem oil, insecticidal soap, or rubbing alcohol (for mealybugs). For diseases, bacterial leaf spot and blight are the main concerns, causing brown spots with yellow halos on foliage. Prevent bacterial issues by avoiding overhead watering, ensuring good air circulation, and removing infected leaves promptly. Root rot from overwatering is also common—prevent by using well-draining soil and allowing it to partially dry between waterings.

In its native habitat, Philodendron sharoniae is pollinated by scarab beetles. During the brief 25-40 hour window when the spathe opens, the spadix heats up to around 35°C (95°F) to attract beetles with warmth and scent. The beetles become trapped inside the spathe temporarily, where they pick up pollen before the spathe reopens. Philodendrons cannot self-pollinate as they have separate male and female flower parts that mature at different times. Home pollination is possible by manually transferring pollen between plants but requires precise timing during the short flowering window.

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

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

Philodendron Sharoniae 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.

Philodendron Sharoniae can survive in low light conditions, making them ideal for rooms that are far from windows or other light sources. However, for best results, place the plant less than 6 feet from a south-facing window to ensure it receives enough light.

The Philodendron Sharoniae is not in need of supplementary humidity. Most water is taken in by plants through their roots, thus soil watering is the most efficient way to provide humidity to your plants.

The Philodendron Sharoniae should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

A typical dormancy pattern is not present in the Philodendron Sharoniae. If the growth slows down dramatically, confirm that the plant is getting enough sunlight and water for optimal growth.