Philodendron alatiundulatum – Complete Plant Information and Care Guide

Philodendron alatiundulatum Croat is a rare hemiepiphytic aroid prized for its unique winged petioles and bold, glossy foliage. Native to the tropical rainforests of Costa Rica and Panama, it thrives in humid, shaded environments. Indoors, this species brings dramatic structure and rich green textures to plant collections, growing vertically with the right support.
Key Features of Philodendron alatiundulatum
 
Distinctive Petioles: Broadly rounded below and flattened above, with undulating purplish wings along the edges.
 
Unique Foliage: Broad, dark green ovate-cordate leaves, semi-glossy above and paler underneath.
 
Natural Growth Habit: Climbs trees or sprawls across the forest floor as a hemiepiphyte.
Natural Habitat of Philodendron alatiundulatum
Philodendron alatiundulatum is native to mid-elevation rainforests in Costa Rica and Panama, typically found between 500 and 1200 meters. It grows as a hemiepiphyte in warm, humid forests, often climbing tree trunks or sprawling along moist, shaded ground layers. In the wild, it thrives under dense canopy cover with high humidity and filtered light.
Detailed Morphology of Philodendron alatiundulatum
 
Growth Habit: Hemiepiphytic climber with aerial and terrestrial root systems.
 
Petioles: Purplish, broadly rounded on the underside and flattened above, forming characteristic undulating wings.
 
Leaf Blades: Broadly ovate-cordate, semi-glossy dark green above, matte and lighter beneath, with slightly wavy margins.
 
Venation: Primary lateral veins are deeply impressed on the upper surface, subtly quilted in appearance.
 
Juvenile vs. Mature Leaves: Juvenile leaves are smaller and softer, while mature foliage becomes broader and structurally robust.
Philodendron alatiundulatum Indoor Care Guide
 
Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Tolerates medium light but grows slower.
 
Watering: Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry. Use filtered or rainwater when possible.
 
Humidity: Thrives at 60% humidity or higher. Use a humidifier or group with other plants if needed.
 
Temperature: Best range is 18–25 °C. Protect from cold drafts and sudden drops below 13 °C.
 
Soil: Use a breathable aroid mix with orchid bark, perlite, and coconut coir.
 
Fertilizing: Feed every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
 
Repotting: Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot. Use containers with drainage holes.
 
Support: Provide a moss pole or trellis for vertical growth and larger leaves.
Propagation and Maintenance for Philodendron alatiundulatum
 
Propagation: Propagate via stem cuttings with at least one node. Root in water, sphagnum moss, or well-draining soil.
 
Pruning: Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to encourage vigorous growth.
 
Semi-Hydroponics: Adapts well to semi-hydro systems like LECA if humidity and nutrients are managed properly.
Common Problems and Solutions for Philodendron alatiundulatum
 
Spider Mites: Wipe leaves with a damp cloth and treat with insecticidal soap if needed.
 
Mealybugs: Remove manually with isopropyl alcohol and maintain airflow around plants.
 
Root Rot: Caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Use a loose, airy substrate.
 
Yellow Leaves: Often caused by overwatering or insufficient light.
 
Brown Tips: Due to low humidity or salt buildup. Raise humidity and flush the soil occasionally.
Growth Rate and Placement Tips
 
Growth Rate: Moderate, with steady development when conditions are stable.
 
Placement: Near a window with bright, filtered light. Use vertical supports for natural climbing growth.
Toxicity of Philodendron alatiundulatum
Philodendron alatiundulatum is toxic if ingested, containing calcium oxalate crystals. Keep out of reach of pets and small children.
Botanical Background of Philodendron alatiundulatum
Philodendron alatiundulatum was first described by botanist Thomas B. Croat in 1988. It belongs to the subgenus Philodendron within the section Calostigma, known for species with winged or ribbed petioles. The species name combines Latin words: "alatus" (winged) and "undulatus" (wavy), referring to the undulating structure of the petioles. It remains a rare species, mostly documented from herbarium specimens collected in Costa Rica and Panama.
Frequently Asked Questions about Philodendron alatiundulatum
 
Can Philodendron alatiundulatum tolerate low light? It adapts to medium light but prefers bright, indirect light for best growth.
 
How do I prevent root rot? Use a chunky, well-draining soil mix and water only when the top layer feels dry.
 
What makes the petioles unique? The purplish wings and undulating edges are distinctive among Philodendron species.
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