Philodendron squamiferum × serpens – Rare Hybrid Aroid with Hairy Petioles
Philodendron squamiferum × serpens is a unique hybrid that blends the best traits of two striking parent species. Expect velvety, deeply lobed foliage paired with bold, red-haired petioles — a combo that brings sculptural flair and tropical texture to your indoor jungle. This fast-climbing aroid thrives on a moss pole and turns heads with its wild yet elegant presence.
● Care Essentials for Philodendron squamiferum × serpens
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate lower light but may grow slower with smaller leaves.
- Water: Water when the top 15-20% of soil is dry. Use filtered, room-temperature water and avoid soggy conditions.
- Humidity: Ideal humidity is 60% or higher. Use a humidifier or group with other plants for a moisture boost.
- Temperature: Maintain 21 – 26 °C. Avoid cold drafts or direct heat from radiators.
- Soil: Use a loose aroid mix: orchid bark, perlite, and coconut coir.
- Fertilizer: Feed every 4 – 6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Avoid overfeeding to prevent salt buildup.
- Repotting: Every 1 – 2 years or when rootbound. Use pots with drainage; terracotta improves airflow.
● Propagation Tips
- Take cuttings with at least one node and aerial root.
- Root in water, sphagnum moss, or LECA at 22 – 26 °C with bright, indirect light.
- Works year-round if conditions are stable — not tied to seasons indoors.
● Can You Grow This Plant in LECA?
- Yes! This hybrid adapts well to semi-hydroponic setups with LECA.
- Keep water level just below root zone and use hydroponic fertilizer.
● Maintenance and Styling
- Prune damaged leaves to redirect energy to new growth.
- Wipe leaves gently to keep them dust-free and glossy.
- Give it a moss pole to climb — leaf size will increase dramatically.
- Perfect for bright corners, shelf edges, or climbing near filtered-light windows.
● Toxicity Reminder
- Contains calcium oxalates — toxic if ingested. Keep away from pets and children.
● Common Issues and How to Fix Them
- Spider Mites / Thrips: Check leaf undersides. Treat with insecticidal soap or beneficial insects.
- Yellow Leaves: Often from overwatering or low light — adjust conditions.
- Brown Tips: Caused by low humidity or erratic watering. Boost moisture.
- Root Rot: From poor drainage. Repot with fresh mix and remove affected roots.
- Sunburn: Crispy patches from direct sun — move to indirect light.
● Origin and Botanical Background
This hybrid combines Philodendron squamiferum (known for its deeply lobed leaves and fuzzy petioles) with Philodendron serpens, famous for its thick red hairs. Both species are native to tropical South America and share a climbing, hemiepiphytic growth style. Indoors, they thrive in warm, filtered-light setups with vertical support.
● Etymology
- Philodendron: Greek “philo” (love) + “dendron” (tree) — a tree-loving climber.
- Squamiferum: Latin for “scale-bearing” – refers to bristly petioles.
- Serpens: Latin for “snake” – refers to its creeping growth habit.
● FAQs – Philodendron squamiferum × serpens
- Is this plant beginner-friendly? It’s moderately easy – consistent humidity and good light are key.
- How fast does it grow? Moderate to fast in warm, humid environments with vertical support.
- Does it tolerate dry air? It survives, but leaf tips may brown. Use a humidifier for best results.
● Add Philodendron squamiferum × serpens to Your Collection
Philodendron squamiferum × serpens is a rare hybrid with bold foliage and eye-catching textures. Order now and let this collector’s aroid climb into your indoor jungle!
Philodendron squamiferum x serpens
Philodendron squamiferum x serpens comes in following sizes:
Baby Plant – is approximately 15 cm tall and comes in ⌀ 6 cm pot.
M – is approximately 25 cm tall and comes in ⌀ 12 cm pot.
