Philodendron 'Florida Ghost': A Rare Collector's Climber
Philodendron 'Florida Ghost' is a rare aroid hybrid prized for its ghostly foliage. New leaves emerge pale white, then shift through minty tones before settling into rich green as they mature. This low-maintenance climbing plant develops dramatic, lobed leaves and red-textured petioles, making it a striking statement piece for any indoor jungle. A must-have for collectors of unusual tropical Philodendrons.
Why Philodendron 'Florida Ghost' Captivates Collectors
This genetically stable clone is known for its pale, almost translucent new leaves — a unique trait within the Philodendron 'Florida' hybrid complex. Its deeply lobed foliage and red petioles reflect its parentage. With a moss pole or trellis, this fast-growing aroid can climb rapidly indoors, developing larger and more textured leaves over time.
Philodendron 'Florida Ghost' Size and Indoor Growth
With proper support and conditions, Philodendron 'Florida Ghost' can reach over 2 meters in height indoors. Mature leaves typically span 30–50 cm and become more leathery as they age. Growth is moderate to fast, especially in warm, humid environments with filtered light. Color changes occur as part of natural leaf development, not due to light intensity.
How to Care for Philodendron 'Florida Ghost'

 
Light: Bright, indirect light encourages strong growth and larger leaves. Color shifts are driven by leaf age, not lighting.
 
Watering: Allow the top 3–5 cm of substrate to dry out before watering. Use a breathable pot with excellent drainage.
 
Humidity: Prefers 60–80%. Boost humidity with a humidifier or tray if your space is dry.
 
Temperature: Thrives at 18–30 °C. Avoid cold drafts and dips below 15 °C.
 
Substrate: Use a chunky aroid mix with potting soil, coarse perlite, orchid bark, coconut coir, and charcoal.
 
Fertilization: Feed every 4–6 weeks year-round with a half-strength balanced liquid fertilizer.
 
Support: Add a moss pole early to guide vertical growth and promote mature foliage.

Can Philodendron 'Florida Ghost' Grow in Semi-Hydro?

 
Yes — this plant transitions well to LECA or other semi-hydroponic systems.
 
Rinse roots carefully before switching, and maintain stable humidity during transition.
 
Climbing support remains important even in hydro setups.

Common Problems and Solutions

 
Pests: Watch for spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs. Treat early with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
 
Root Rot: Caused by poor drainage or overwatering. Use a loose, airy mix and containers with drainage holes.
 
Yellow Leaves: Often due to overwatering or low light. Adjust both conditions accordingly.
 
Brown Edges: Linked to dry air or inconsistent watering. Stabilize humidity and watering schedule.

How to Propagate Philodendron 'Florida Ghost'
Take a stem cutting below a node with an aerial root. Place in water, moist sphagnum moss, or semi-hydro. Keep temperatures between 24–27 °C and maintain high humidity for best root development. Roots typically appear within 2–4 weeks.
Botanical and Hybrid Background
Philodendron 'Florida Ghost' is an unregistered clonal selection from the hybrid cross Philodendron pedatum (Hook.) Kunth × Philodendron squamiferum Poepp., both members of the Araceae family. 'Florida Ghost' refers to the pale, ghost-like appearance of its juvenile foliage — a trait not influenced by light but by pigment expression during early leaf growth.
Philodendron pedatum is native to Venezuela and northern Brazil, while P. squamiferum originates from French Guiana. Both are hemiepiphytes that grow in humid, shaded rainforest understories.
Your Questions About Philodendron 'Florida Ghost'

 
Can it grow in low light? It survives in medium light but thrives in bright, filtered light. Leaves stay smaller and growth slows in dim spaces.
 
Is propagation easy? Yes. Cuttings root well in water, moss, or LECA with consistent warmth and humidity.
 
Is it safe for pets? No. Like all Philodendrons, it contains calcium oxalate crystals and should be kept out of reach.

Order Philodendron 'Florida Ghost' from Foliage Factory
Looking for a rare, low-maintenance climber with truly standout foliage? Order Philodendron 'Florida Ghost' today and grow one of the most visually unique hybrids in the aroid world — a true centerpiece for your indoor collection.