Philodendron 'Florida Ghost': A Rare Collector's Climber
Philodendron 'Florida Ghost' is famous for its color-changing foliage, starting pale white before gradually shifting to mint green and rich emerald. This rare variegated form of the Philodendron 'Florida' hybrid offers striking lobed leaves, red textured petioles, and vigorous climbing growth — making it a must-have for serious plant enthusiasts.
Why Philodendron 'Florida Ghost' Captivates Collectors
New leaves on Philodendron 'Florida Ghost' emerge bright white, slowly deepening to shades of mint and mature green. Its deeply lobed leaf shape and textured, reddish petioles add extra visual impact. This plant thrives vertically with proper support, developing larger and more dramatic foliage over time.
Philodendron 'Florida Ghost' Size and Growth Indoors
When given a moss pole or trellis, Philodendron 'Florida Ghost' can climb over 2 meters indoors. Leaves can reach up to 30–50 cm across under ideal humidity and light. Growth is moderate to fast, with color variation depending on light intensity and leaf maturity.
How to Care for Philodendron 'Florida Ghost'
- Light: Needs bright, indirect light for healthy, vigorous growth. Color changes naturally as leaves mature, but insufficient light slows growth and reduces vibrancy.
- Watering: Allow the top 3–5 cm of substrate to dry out before watering. Ensure fast drainage — never let roots sit in soggy soil.
- Humidity: Prefers 60–80% humidity. Group plants, use a humidifier, or set up a humidity tray if needed.
- Temperature: Ideal between 18–30 °C. Avoid exposure below 15 °C.
- Substrate: Use a chunky aroid mix: potting soil, coarse perlite, orchid bark, coconut coir, and activated charcoal for extra drainage.
- Fertilization: Feed every 4–6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength for steady growth.
- Support: Attach to a moss pole early to encourage vertical development and mature leaf forms.
Can Philodendron 'Florida Ghost' Grow in Semi-Hydro?
- Yes — adapts well to LECA or semi-hydroponic setups with hydroponic nutrients.
- Transition carefully by rinsing roots thoroughly and maintaining consistent humidity levels.
- Continue providing vertical climbing support even in hydro systems.
Common Problems and Solutions for Philodendron 'Florida Ghost'
- Pests: Watch for spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs. Treat early with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Root Rot: Prevent by using fast-draining substrate and ensuring the pot has drainage holes.
- Yellow Leaves: Linked to overwatering or low light. Adjust watering and improve lighting setup.
- Brown Leaf Edges: Caused by dry air or inconsistent watering. Raise humidity and stabilize watering routines.
Propagation Guide for Philodendron 'Florida Ghost'
Take a stem cutting below a node with visible aerial roots. Root it in water, moist sphagnum moss, or a semi-hydro setup. High humidity and temperatures around 24–27 °C will speed up root development.
Botanical Notes on Philodendron 'Florida Ghost'
Philodendron 'Florida Ghost' is a variegated clonal selection within the hybrid cross between Philodendron pedatum and Philodendron squamiferum. It belongs to the Araceae family. The genus name "Philodendron" comes from Greek — "philo" (love) and "dendron" (tree) — describing its natural climbing behavior in tropical forests.
Frequently Asked Questions about Philodendron 'Florida Ghost'
- Can it survive in low light? It can tolerate low light, but growth slows and leaves become smaller and darker. Bright, indirect light is ideal.
- Is propagation easy? Yes. Stem cuttings with one node root readily in water, moss, or semi-hydro systems.
- Is it toxic? Yes. Like all Philodendrons, it is toxic if ingested. Keep away from pets and small children.
Order Philodendron 'Florida Ghost' from Foliage Factory
Ready to own one of the rarest and most visually dynamic Philodendron hybrids? Order Philodendron 'Florida Ghost' today and grow a breathtaking centerpiece in your indoor collection!
Philodendron 'Florida Ghost'
Philodendron 'Florida ghost' comes in following sizes:
Plug (Starter Plant) – ⌀ 2 cm and is approximately 7 cm tall
Baby Plant – comes in a ⌀ 6 cm pot and is approximately 10 cm tall
S – comes in a ⌀ 10.5 cm pot and is approximately 15 cm tall
M – comes in a ⌀ 12 cm pot and is approximately 25 cm tall
L – comes in a ⌀ 19 cm pot and is approximately 70 cm tall