Philodendron 'Green Dragon' – Fast-Growing Hybrid with Distinctive Lobed Foliage


Philodendron 'Green Dragon' is a vigorous hybrid, believed to have Philodendron bipennifolium in its parentage. Its bold, pinnate lobes give the leaves a sculptural appearance, while occasional golden splashes of variegation add extra ornamental value. This fast-growing climber adapts easily to indoor culture and quickly develops into an impressive specimen with proper support.
 
● Key features of 'Green Dragon'


Leaf form: deeply lobed, pinnate blades with an unusual silhouette.
Colour: fresh green foliage, sometimes showing golden variegated streaks.
Growth habit: fast-growing, scandent philodendron with strong climbing ability.
Display impact: large, architectural leaves that bring a tropical statement indoors.
 
● Background and hybrid origin


While its exact breeding remains uncertain, 'Green Dragon' is widely believed to involve P. bipennifolium, known for its dragon-shaped leaf outline. This hybrid builds on those traits with greater vigour and ornamental variation, making it an attractive choice for collectors who value bold foliage forms.
 
● Care instructions for Philodendron 'Green Dragon'


Light: thrives in bright, indirect light; occasional golden variegation shows best with steady exposure.
Temperature: ideal at 20 – 28 °C; growth slows if temperatures fall below 16 °C.
Humidity: prefers 60 – 80%, though it tolerates average indoor levels.
Watering: water when the top 2 – 3 cm of substrate are dry; avoid letting roots sit in water.
Substrate: chunky, well-draining aroid mix with bark, perlite, and coco coir.
Feeding: regular, diluted fertilisation during the growing season supports rapid growth.
Support: benefits from a moss pole or trellis to climb and produce larger leaves.
 
● Common grower challenges


Small leaves: usually from lack of climbing support; provide a pole for larger blades.
Variegation fading: insufficient light can reduce golden streaks; increase filtered brightness.
Yellowing foliage: often caused by excess watering or poorly drained substrate.
Pests: watch for thrips or mites, especially on tender new leaves.
 
● Collector’s notes


Comparison: shares traits with P. bipennifolium but grows faster and can develop variegation.
Impact: lobed leaves give a tropical, dragon-like aesthetic rare among hybrids.
Rarity: not widely distributed, making it a standout in curated collections.
Toxicity: philodendrons contain calcium oxalate; keep away from pets and children.
 
● Etymology


Genus:Philodendron (Schott, 1830), from Greek philo- “loving” + dendron “tree,” referencing its natural climbing behaviour.Cultivar name: ‘Green Dragon’ refers to its bold, lobed foliage reminiscent of a dragon’s outline.
 
● Propagation and growth


Propagation: stem cuttings with at least one node root reliably in warm, humid setups.
Medium: sphagnum moss or fine bark/perlite blends ensure quick root establishment.
Indoor size: fast climber reaching 1 – 2 m indoors with support; leaves expand with maturity.
 
● Grower FAQs


Does it always produce golden variegation?Not always; some leaves may remain plain green, but steady bright light increases chances of streaking.
How fast does it grow?It is one of the faster-growing philodendron hybrids, producing steady new foliage in warm conditions.
Is it demanding?No, it is adaptable and forgiving, making it suitable for both new growers and seasoned collectors.
 
● Why Philodendron 'Green Dragon' deserves a spot in your collection


With its dragon-like lobed leaves, fast growth, and occasional golden variegation, Philodendron 'Green Dragon' is a bold and rewarding hybrid for collectors who appreciate unusual foliage forms.