Philodendron 'Jose Buono' – Rare Aroid with Striking Cream Variegation
Looking for a bold, sculptural houseplant? Philodendron 'Jose Buono' delivers oversized, paddle-shaped foliage marbled in creamy-white and green. This fast-growing climbing aroid makes a stunning vertical statement with minimal effort. A collector’s favorite and an instant focal point for your indoor jungle.
Why Philodendron 'Jose Buono' Stands Out
No two leaves are alike on this variegated hybrid — some sport chunky cream blocks, others speckled mint swirls. Mature plants develop leaves over 50 cm long when trained upright. As a naturally climbing Philodendron, it thrives with vertical support like moss poles or coir totems.
Size and Growth of Philodendron 'Jose Buono' Indoors
With proper care, Philodendron 'Jose Buono' can reach 1.5–1.8 m in height indoors. Expect new leaf growth every few weeks in ideal conditions. Leaf size and variegation quality improve significantly when the plant climbs, gets bright indirect light, and grows in stable humidity.
How to Care for Philodendron 'Jose Buono'
- Light: Bright, filtered light supports strong variegation. Avoid direct sun to prevent scorching.
- Temperature: Performs best between 20–28 °C. Never let temps fall below 15 °C.
- Humidity: Thrives at 60–80%. Tolerates average room humidity but grows fuller with added moisture.
- Watering: Let the top 3–4 cm of substrate dry before watering. Never leave the roots sitting in soggy soil.
- Substrate: Use a breathable aroid mix: peat-free compost, orchid bark, perlite, and a bit of coco coir.
- Fertilization: Feed every 3–4 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength.
- Repotting: Repot when roots circle the pot or when growth slows. Use containers with drainage holes.
- Support: Climbing structures like moss poles encourage bigger leaves and more upright form.
- Hydroponics: Adapts to LECA or pon with careful acclimation and hydro-specific nutrients.
Propagation Tips for Philodendron 'Jose Buono'
Take a cutting just below a node and root it in water, moist sphagnum moss, or LECA. High humidity (over 70%) and warm temperatures (24–27 °C) will speed up rooting. Note: variegation may vary in the propagated plant.
Common Issues and Solutions
- Yellowing Leaves: Usually a result of overwatering. Let soil dry more thoroughly and ensure drainage.
- Brown Edges: Caused by low humidity or salt buildup. Raise humidity and flush the substrate occasionally.
- Pests: Mealybugs and spider mites may appear. Treat early with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Leggy Growth: Move to a brighter spot or provide a climbing pole to encourage leaf size and density.
Botanical Background of Philodendron 'Jose Buono'
This cultivar is an unregistered hybrid within the Araceae family, with close morphological traits to Philodendron domesticum. While the exact lineage is unknown, it is considered a climbing tropical aroid. The genus name Philodendron comes from the Greek “philo” (love) and “dendron” (tree), referring to its natural tendency to climb host trees in rainforests.
Philodendron 'Jose Buono' – FAQs
- Is it pet safe? No — like all Philodendrons, it contains calcium oxalate and is toxic if ingested.
- Can it grow in a bathroom? Yes, if there’s bright, indirect light and stable warmth.
- Does misting help? Light misting is fine, but stable ambient humidity is more effective long-term.
- How often should I water? Every 7–10 days on average, depending on light and potting mix. Always test the soil before watering.
Order Philodendron 'Jose Buono' from Foliage Factory
Get your hands on one of the most visually stunning variegated Philodendrons. Order Philodendron 'Jose Buono' now and enjoy bold foliage, fast growth, and easy care — all in one rare aroid!
Philodendron 'Jose Buono'
Philodendron 'Jose Buono' comes in following sizes:
Baby Plant – is approximately 12 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 6 cm pot
M – is approximately 30 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 12 cm pot
L – is approximately 45 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 15 cm pot
XL – is approximately 70 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 30 cm pot
