Philodendron 'Splendid': The Velvety Hybrid That Deserves a Spotlight
- Foliage Factory
- Aug 19, 2024
- 20 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Looking for a plant that combines drama, depth, and lush tropical vibes — all without being too fussy? Meet Philodendron 'Splendid', a collector-favourite hybrid that lives up to its name. With velvety heart-shaped leaves, vivid veining, and a tendency to climb skyward on a moss pole, this rare aroid is both a statement piece and a grower’s delight.
In this guide, you’ll learn about:
Whether you're a collector, an indoor jungle builder, or someone hunting for the next velvety-leafed showstopper — this plant might be exactly what you're looking for.
1. Origins and Lineage: Where Philodendron 'Splendid' Comes From
Not just another velvet-leaf Philodendron. ‘Splendid’ is a botanical hybrid with a real history — and that history explains both its striking looks and its slightly more forgiving temperament compared to its parent species.
The Cross That Created 'Splendid'
Philodendron 'Splendid' is a cross between two iconic species:
Philodendron melanochrysum — A tropical climber native to both Ecuador and Colombia, typically found in cloud forests between 500–1500 m elevation. Known for its long, velvety leaves with a pale central vein and golden undertones.
Philodendron verrucosum — Native to Ecuador, but reported across multiple regions in Central and South America. It thrives in mid- to high-elevation rainforests (400–1600 m) as a hemiepiphyte. Its signature reddish undersides and lime-green venation strongly influence the hybrid’s visual appeal.
Together, they created something that looks like velvet and behaves like a resilient climber: Philodendron verrucosum × melanochrysum = ‘Splendid’.
The Breeder Behind It
The hybrid was developed in the 1980s by Australian plant breeder Keith Henderson, who also created well-known crosses like ‘Glorious’ and ‘Majestic’. After testing and refining the plant throughout the late '80s, it was formally released in 1990 and later popularised under the name ‘Splendid’ by collector and aroid enthusiast Neil Crafter.
Natural Origins of the Parent Species
While ‘Splendid’ is a man-made hybrid, its parent species grow wild in the humid cloud forests of Ecuador and Colombia. Both are hemiepiphytes — plants that grow up trees but often begin their life on the forest floor. This origin explains their climbing tendency, love of high humidity, and sensitivity to environmental changes.
💡 While widely circulated in the rare plant trade, Philodendron 'Splendid' is an informal, unregistered hybrid cultivar. It is not formally published under botanical code nor protected by a plant patent. Like many collector hybrids, its status remains horticultural rather than taxonomic.
What ‘Splendid’ Inherits
This hybrid wasn’t just made for show — it was bred to combine the best of both worlds:
Trait | Inherited From |
Velvety leaf texture | Both parents |
Bright green leaf veins | P. verrucosum |
Elongated leaf shape | P. melanochrysum |
Reddish leaf sinus and undersides | P. verrucosum |
Climbing growth & aerial roots | Both parents |
More forgiving care needs | The hybrid itself |
💡 Unlike many fragile velvet-leaf aroids, ‘Splendid’ is noticeably less prone to leaf loss when acclimating to new spaces — making it a great entry point into rare Philodendrons.
2. Growth Habit and Morphology: What to Expect from Philodendron 'Splendid'
Philodendron 'Splendid' is more than just pretty leaves — its growth structure, climbing behaviour, and aerial roots tell you exactly how it wants to grow. Understanding this is key to keeping it happy indoors.
A Hemiepiphytic Climber with Ambition
‘Splendid’ is a hemiepiphyte — meaning in the wild, it can start on the forest floor or in the canopy, and will send out aerial roots to anchor itself to nearby trees.
Indoors, this translates to one clear truth:
➜ Give it vertical support, and it will reward you with larger, more dramatic foliage.
How it behaves indoors:
Grows upward when offered a moss pole, coir totem, or trellis
Sends out aerial roots to grab onto surfaces and support larger leaves
Can grow up to 1–2 metres indoors with consistent warmth and humidity
Without support, growth stays smaller, more vine‑like, and less dramatic
💡Tip: If you want big velvet leaves, train it to climb. It’s not just decorative — it’s biological encouragement.
Leaf Shape, Size & Texture
The foliage is the star of this hybrid — and its velvety finish gives it an almost surreal appearance under soft light.
Key features of the leaves:
Shape: Oblong to heart‑shaped with a deeply cordate (notched) base
Texture: Velutinous (soft and velvety)
Veining: Prominent lime- to light‑green veins, especially vivid on mature leaves
Colouration: Deep emerald with occasional maroon flush on the sinus and undersides (inherited from verrucosum)
Size: Mature leaves can reach up to 60 cm long × 30 cm wide (about 2 ft × 1 ft) in ideal indoor conditions
The more stable the environment (light, humidity, temperature), the more refined and symmetrical the foliage becomes over time.
Petioles, Stems, and Aerial Roots
The supporting structure of 'Splendid' tells you a lot about how it climbs and propagates:
Petioles (leaf stems): Rough-textured, sometimes slightly fuzzy
Stems: Woody and segmented with nodes — each node capable of growing aerial roots and new shoots
Aerial roots: Emerge at each node; help the plant climb and are useful for propagation
Internodes: Shorter spacing on well-lit plants = bushier growth; long spacing = light stress
💡 Quick insight: If your ‘Splendid’ is stretching between leaves, it’s asking for more light. Shorter internodes mean it’s getting what it needs.
Growth Rate
With proper care, this plant is faster-growing than either of its parents — a huge advantage if you’ve struggled with melanochrysum or verrucosum in the past.
In warm, bright, humid spaces, expect several new leaves per season
In optimal indoor settings, it can climb 1–2 m per year
Slows down in lower temperatures or dry, dark rooms — but rarely enters full dormancy unless conditions are poor
💡 Want faster growth? Keep temps between 20–27 °C, humidity above 60 %, and give it something to climb.
Does It Flower?
Technically yes, but not in the way you think.
Philodendron 'Splendid' almost never flowers indoors — and even if it did, as a hybrid, it won’t produce viable seeds. This plant is all about foliage, and its beauty lies in the leaves, not blooms.
Flowers are rare, usually only in mature specimens grown in botanical collections
Propagation is only vegetative—via stem cuttings, air layering, or division
3. Environmental Preferences: Light, Temperature, and Humidity
To get the best out of Philodendron 'Splendid', you need to recreate the warm, humid understory of a tropical cloud forest — but with indoor conditions that don’t invite rot or stress.
This section breaks down how to balance light, temperature, and humidity for optimal growth, vibrant foliage, and long-term plant health.
Light: Bright, Indirect — and Stable
‘Splendid’ thrives in bright, indirect light, just like the filtered rays it would receive beneath the jungle canopy. Direct sun can burn the velvety surface of its leaves, while low light will reduce its size, colour intensity, and growth rate.
Best light setups:
East-facing window → gentle morning sun = ideal
North-facing window → sufficient, especially in summer
South/west windows → only with sheer curtains or several metres distance
Grow lights → LED full spectrum, ~10–12 hours daily if natural light is weak
💡 Key phrase to remember: “Bright but filtered.” No direct afternoon sun.
📌 Not sure how your windows measure up?
Check our full guide on window orientations and indoor light levels: Understanding Window Orientations and Houseplants
Symptoms of light imbalance:
Symptom | Possible Light Issue |
Crispy edges or faded leaf colour | Too much direct light |
Leggy growth, small leaves | Not enough light |
Leaves not unfurling properly | Combo of low light + low humidity |
Temperature: Keep It Consistently Warm
Like its parents, Philodendron 'Splendid' prefers a narrow, warm temperature band. It's not frost-hardy and doesn’t tolerate extreme heat well either.
Optimal range:
Ideal: 18–27 °C
Tolerable: 15–32 °C (briefly)
Minimum: 13 °C (below this, growth may stall or plant may decline)
Avoid placing it near:
Radiators or heating vents (dry, hot air)
Drafty windows or exterior doors
Unheated windowsills in winter
💡 Tip for consistency: If your room feels comfortable year-round for you in a T-shirt, it's probably fine for 'Splendid'.
Humidity: Not Optional for This Velvet Queen
This plant's velvety foliage and large surface area make it more prone to dehydration than leathery-leafed species. High humidity is essential for healthy growth, especially as it matures.
Ideal humidity:
Target range: 60–80 %
Below 50 %: edges may brown, leaf tips crisp, new leaves may fail to unfurl
Below 40 %: plant may stall growth or decline
How to boost humidity:
Keep near humidifiers (preferably ultrasonic with auto-off timer)
Place in naturally humid rooms (not relying on bathrooms/kitchens by default — check your actual RH%)
Group with other plants to create a microclimate
Avoid misting the leaves → causes fungal spotting on velvety surfaces
❗ Common myth: Misting raises humidity. It doesn't — at least not meaningfully, and it risks fungal issues on velutinous plants like ‘Splendid’.
Quick test:
Buy a digital hygrometer. They're cheap, accurate, and reveal what your plant is actually experiencing — especially during winter heating.
📌 Want to get humidity right without the guesswork?
Check out our full guide: Mastering Humidity for Healthier Houseplants
4. Potting and Substrate: How to Keep Those Roots Happy
Philodendron 'Splendid' may have velvety leaves, but its success starts below the soil line. A well-structured, breathable substrate is the single most important factor in preventing root rot, stunted growth, and transplant shock.
Let’s break down the essentials of soil mix, pot type, repotting strategy, and how to adapt your setup if you're going semi-hydro.
The Best Soil Mix for Philodendron 'Splendid'
The roots of this plant need moisture and airflow simultaneously.
Too dense = rot.
Too dry = stalled growth.
That’s why the ideal substrate is chunky, airy, and organic.
Recommended aroid mix (soil-based):
30–40 % coco coir or high-quality indoor potting soil (base moisture retention)
20–30 % orchid bark (chunky aeration)
15–20 % perlite or pumice (fast drainage, lightens the mix)
10–15 % worm castings or compost (mild nutrients + microbials)
Optional: a pinch of horticultural charcoal (odor/fungus control)
💡This mix retains water around roots while letting excess drain away—ideal for hemiepiphytic roots that hate being waterlogged.
📌Need help fine-tuning your mix or timing a repot?
Check out our in-depth guides:
and
Can Philodendron 'Splendid' Grow in Semi-Hydro?
Yes — especially in Pon, LECA, or mineral substrates mixes. The key is stable humidity and warm roots.
If growing in semi-hydro:
Use self-watering pot with a reservoir
Ensure nutrient solution is diluted (EC control)
Flush every 2–3 weeks to prevent salt buildup
Use a wicking layer (like pumice or perlite) to distribute moisture evenly
⚠️ Transitioning from soil to semi-hydro should be done only after roots have adapted to a passive hydro environment. In semi-hydroponics (LECA or Pon), plant Philodendron 'Splendid' in a net pot with a 2–3 cm water reservoir below the root zone. Feed with a diluted nutrient solution (EC ~1.0–1.2) every 2–3 weeks and flush monthly to prevent mineral buildup. Transitioning from soil to LECA may take 3–6 weeks for root adaptation, depending on humidity and light
📌 Thinking about switching to semi-hydro?
Learn how to do it safely in our step-by-step guide: From Soil to Semi-Hydro: Transition Houseplants the Right Way
Choosing the Right Pot
Drainage is non-negotiable. Whether you're growing in soil or semi-hydro, your container must support oxygen flow and allow excess water to exit.
Recommended options:
Plastic nursery pots with slots or side holes
Terracotta pots for overwaterers (they breathe!)
Clear orchid pots if monitoring roots is helpful to you
Place decorative pots as covers, not as the main container
How Often Should You Repot?
Philodendron 'Splendid' doesn’t mind being slightly rootbound — but overcrowding or stale substrate will eventually slow it down.
General repotting guidelines:
Every 1–2 years, preferably in spring or early summer
Or when roots start circling the bottom or poking from drainage holes
Always use fresh substrate during repotting (don’t reuse old mix)
Size up the pot by 2–4 cm diameter max — oversizing encourages rot
💡Bonus tip: If the plant is mature and top-heavy, repot into a heavier base pot or stake it firmly when transplanting.
🚨Root Health Red Flags
Watch for these signs that your substrate or potting setup needs attention:
Symptom | Likely Issue |
Mushy stems or blackened base | Overwatering, compact soil |
Constantly dry despite watering | Wrong mix (too coarse or hydrophobic) |
Yellowing lower leaves + droop | Root suffocation, poor drainage |
Roots circling tightly or exiting pot | Needs repotting soon |
5. Watering and Fertilising: Balancing Moisture and Nutrition
With a hybrid like Philodendron 'Splendid', water and nutrients need to be delivered with consistency, not excess. Overdo either, and you’ll see brown tips, yellow leaves, or rot creeping in. Underdo them, and growth slows or stalls.
Here’s how to get both right, whether you're growing in soil or semi-hydro.
How to Water Philodendron 'Splendid' Indoors
This plant doesn’t want to be kept soggy — but it also doesn’t like drying out completely. The goal: moist, not wet. Airy, not dry.
Watering in soil:
Check moisture with your finger or a moisture meter
Water when the top 5–7 cm of substrate feels dry
Pour until water drains out the bottom
Empty saucers immediately — never let roots sit in water
In warmer months or brighter light = more frequent watering
In low light or cooler temps = reduced frequency
💡Tip: Don’t follow a fixed schedule. Let the plant’s substrate and environment guide you.
Signs of overwatering:
Mushy or blackened stems at the base
Yellowing leaves starting at the bottom
Soggy or sour-smelling soil
Brown spots with yellow halos (possible bacterial rot)
Signs of underwatering:
Limp, curled, or floppy leaves
Crispy brown edges on newer growth
Dry substrate pulling away from pot edges
📌 Not sure when or how much to water?
Get clarity with our full guide: The Ultimate Guide to Watering Houseplants
Semi-Hydro Watering Strategy
If using Pon, LECA, or other mineral media:
Keep a small water reservoir under the substrate
Ensure roots reach the moisture without submersion
Use nutrient solution with controlled EC (electrical conductivity)
Flush the system every 2–3 weeks to remove built-up salts
Avoid stagnant water at the bottom (use mesh pots or wick systems)
Best Fertiliser for Philodendron 'Splendid'
Like most aroids, ‘Splendid’ is not a heavy feeder — but consistent, low-dose nutrition during growth periods encourages strong roots and lush foliage.
General fertiliser guidance:
Use a balanced liquid fertiliser (e.g. 10‑10‑10 or 20‑20‑20)
Or opt for high-nitrogen blends during leafy growth (e.g. 3‑1‑2 ratio)
Dilute to ½ strength to avoid root tip burn
Feed every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Do not feed if the plant is not actively growing, even if it’s “spring”
❗ Important: Seasonal calendar ≠ growth calendar. If your plant isn’t pushing new leaves, skip the feed — even in summer.
Organic vs Synthetic Fertilisers
Either can work — but monitor salt buildup.
Type | Pros | Cons |
Synthetic | Predictable, easy to dose | Can build up salts, burn roots |
Organic | Microbe-friendly, slow release | May smell, harder to control nutrient levels |
💡 Flush your soil with clean water every 6–8 weeks to reduce mineral buildup—especially in tap water zones.
Common Fertiliser Mistakes to Avoid
Feeding too frequently or at full strength
Using bloom fertiliser (wrong NPK ratio)
Forgetting to water before applying fertiliser (dry roots + nutrients = burn)
Mixing multiple nutrient products without checking compatibility
📌 New to plant nutrition?
Check out our Beginner’s Guide to Fertilizing Houseplants for clear, no-nonsense tips that actually work.
6. Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Even with proper care, Philodendron 'Splendid' can occasionally throw a tantrum — curled leaves, weird spots, yellowing, or bugs. The good news? Almost all issues come down to a few core triggers: light, water, pests, or nutrients.
This section gives you clear symptom-to-solution breakdowns, so you don’t waste time guessing.
Pests on Philodendron 'Splendid'
Large velvety leaves and moist growing conditions make this hybrid a target for common indoor pests — especially if airflow is poor or new plants aren’t quarantined.
Common pests:
Pest | Signs | Treatment |
Spider mites | Webbing under leaves, tiny yellow dots | Neem oil, insecticidal soap, increase humidity |
Mealybugs | White fuzzy clumps at nodes or leaf joints | Remove manually + treat with neem or alcohol swabs |
Aphids | Clusters on new growth, sticky residue | Rinse thoroughly + apply mild soap spray |
Fungus gnats | Small black flies near soil | Let soil dry deeper + use sticky traps + BTI (e.g. Mosquito Bits) |
💡 Tip: Always inspect new plants before adding them to your collection — and isolate them for 1–2 weeks. Even if there are no signs of pests visible.
📌Dealing with bugs on your plants?
Browse our full library on pests and natural solutions here: Pest Control for Houseplants
Overwatering, Root Rot, and Leaf Yellowing
Root rot is the #1 killer of indoor aroids. Philodendron 'Splendid' is somewhat forgiving, but even it won’t survive constantly soggy soil.
Signs of overwatering or rot:
Yellowing lower leaves that drop
Black or mushy stem base
Soil that smells sour
Brown spots with yellow halos on leaves
What to do:
Unpot the plant and inspect roots — mushy roots = rot
Trim away dead roots with sterilised scissors
Repot in fresh, airy substrate with better drainage
Water less frequently and ensure drainage holes are clear
❗ Never reuse soggy soil after root rot—it can reintroduce pathogens.
📌 Spotting root rot or just want to avoid it altogether?
Dive into our complete guide: Root Rot in Houseplants — Treatment & Prevention
Light Stress and Leaf Discoloration
Too much or too little light causes leaf damage or unnatural growth.
Too much light:
Crispy edges
Faded or sun-bleached patches
New leaves emerge pale or distorted
Move the plant away from direct rays — especially south or west windows — and use sheer curtains.
Too little light:
Leggy stems (long internodes)
Smaller, thinner leaves
Leaf colour fades or dulls
Slowed or halted growth
Move closer to a window or supplement with full-spectrum grow lights.
📌Worried your plant’s leaf damage is from too much light?
Check out our full guide to distinguish sun stress from sunburn: Sun Stress vs. Sunburn – Houseplants Guide
Brown Leaf Tips or Edges
Usually a result of low humidity, salt buildup, or inconsistent watering.
Possible causes:
Humidity < 40 %
Tap water with high mineral content
Overfertilising
Underwatering or sudden dryness
Fixes:
Increase humidity to at least 60 %
Switch to filtered or rainwater if you notice white crust on soil
Flush substrate every 6–8 weeks with clean water
Keep watering consistent — don’t bounce between drought and flood
Nutrient Issues: Too Much or Not Enough
Philodendron 'Splendid' doesn’t need much fertiliser — but too much = tip burn, and too little = pale, slow growth.
Symptom | Likely Cause |
Brown leaf tips | Overfertilisation or salt buildup |
Pale new leaves | Nitrogen deficiency |
No growth in active season | Nutrient lockout or lack of feeding |
Leaf curling downward | Often nutrient + watering imbalance |
Shipping Stress and Acclimation
If you just received your ‘Splendid’ and the leaves look limp or dull — don’t panic.
It’s normal for velvet-leaf hybrids to suffer shipping shock:
Drop a few older leaves
Show temporary leaf curl or color loss
Need ~2 weeks to settle
💡 Give it stable warmth, filtered light, and humidity over 60 %. Avoid repotting for at least 2–3 weeks unless there’s visible rot.
📌 Just received your 'Splendid' and feeling unsure what to do next?
Start with our essential guide: Post-Purchase Care for New Houseplants — it walks you through stress-free acclimation step by step.
7. Propagation Techniques: How to Multiply Philodendron 'Splendid'
Philodendron 'Splendid' doesn’t produce viable seeds — it’s a hybrid. So if you want to share, multiply, or back up your plant, vegetative propagation is the only route.
Luckily, it’s not difficult — if you follow a few clear rules.
Method 1: Stem Cuttings (Most Common)
This is the fastest and most accessible way to propagate 'Splendid', especially during the plant’s active growth phase (spring to early autumn).
Step-by-step:
Select a healthy vine section
Must include at least one node (the knobby bump where leaves and roots emerge)
Aerial root is a bonus but not required
Ideal cutting: 10–15 cm long, with 1–2 leaves
Cut with sterilised scissors
Cut just below the node
If you’re propagating multiple cuttings, space your cuts cleanly
Optional: Let it callus
Leave the cutting in open air for 2–4 hours to reduce rot risk (especially in moss)
Choose your rooting medium
Water (change daily or every other day)
Damp sphagnum moss (lightly pressed, not soaked)
Perlite or an airy mix (well-draining but moist)
Clear cup or propagation box helps with humidity
Provide the right environment
Bright, indirect light
Warm temps: 20–27 °C
Humidity: 60–80 % (plastic bag or box helps if ambient air is dry)
Wait for roots
Typically takes 2–4 weeks for roots to reach 2–3 cm in length
Then transplant into a well-draining aroid mix
Acclimate gradually to room air to avoid shock
💡 Bonus tip: If you root in water, transition to substrate slowly — don’t let the roots dry out between transfers.
Method 2: Air Layering (Low-Risk for Expensive Plants)
Air layering allows you to develop roots before making a cut, making it perfect for large or valuable specimens.
Step-by-step:
Select a healthy node on the mother plant
Ideally one with an aerial root already forming
Choose a node partway up the vine — not at the very base
Wrap in moist sphagnum moss
Pack it around the node
Don’t over-saturate; moss should be moist but breathable
Enclose with plastic wrap or a propagation pod
Secure ends with plant ties, Velcro, or twine
Check moisture weekly — don’t let it dry out
Wait 4–6 weeks
Roots will begin forming inside the moss
Once you see strong root mass through the plastic…
Cut below the rooted node and pot it up
Use the same care as a transplant from stem cutting
Acclimate to open air gradually
💡 This method keeps the original plant alive and rooted until the baby is ready — ideal for rare or sentimental plants.
Method 3: Division (Less Common)
Philodendron 'Splendid' tends to grow as a single vine, but very mature specimens may produce basal shoots or multiple stems.
How to divide:
Unpot the plant and gently tease apart the root ball
Only divide if each section has its own roots and node
Pot each new plant into fresh substrate
Expect some transplant stress — maintain humidity and warmth for recovery
💡 Division works better for bushier Philodendron species. Don’t force this method if your plant only has one vine.
Best Time to Propagate Philodendron 'Splendid' – Seasonal Guide
Season | Suitable? | Why It Matters |
Spring | ✅ Ideal | Bright, stable light and rising temperatures promote strong, fast root development. Hormonal activity in plants naturally peaks. |
Summer | ✅ Very Good | Active growth phase supports rapid rooting. Just watch for overheating or dehydration in very hot rooms. |
Autumn | ⚠️ Conditionally OK | Rooting still possible indoors with grow lights or consistent temperatures. Outdoor daylight and warmth decline. |
Winter | ❌ Not Recommended | Plants may slow down; light levels drop. Higher risk of rot and failed cuttings due to dormancy-like conditions. |
💡 Tip: If propagating in autumn or winter, use a heat mat and a closed humidity chamber to boost success — but spring is still your safest bet.
📌 Ready to multiply your 'Splendid' or expand your collection?
Check out our step-by-step guide: Propagating Houseplants: How to Root & Multiply
8. Toxicity and Pet Safety
Philodendron 'Splendid' is beautiful — but not edible, and not safe for pets or small children. Like all Philodendrons, it contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which are a natural chemical defense found in most members of the Araceae family.
⚠️ What happens if ingested?
If chewed or swallowed (by humans or animals), symptoms may include:
Oral irritation (burning or swelling of the lips, tongue, mouth)
Drooling or vomiting
Difficulty swallowing
Pawing at the mouth (in pets)
In most cases, symptoms are mild to moderate — but medical or veterinary consultation is always advised.
❗ Not pet-safe. Keep this plant out of reach of cats, dogs, rabbits, and other chewing-prone pets.
Skin Contact & Sap Sensitivity
The sap of Philodendron 'Splendid' may also cause:
Mild skin irritation or redness, especially on sensitive skin
Eye irritation if touched and then rubbed into eyes
How to stay safe:
Wear gloves when pruning or propagating
Wash hands thoroughly after handling cut stems or leaves
Keep tools clean and sanitised to avoid accidental transfer
What to do if exposed
Exposure | What to do |
Ingestion (pet or child) | Rinse mouth, monitor closely, call vet or poison control if symptoms appear |
Skin contact | Wash with mild soap and water |
Eye contact | Rinse with clean water for several minutes; seek medical help if irritation persists |
💡 Tip: If you want a velvet-leaf look but live with pets or kids, consider placing 'Splendid' in elevated planters or hanging displays where it’s harder to access.
9. Bonus Tips and Collector Insights
Philodendron 'Splendid' is a hybrid bred to be less fussy than its famous parents — but the secret to unlocking its full potential lies in small details. These expert strategies can help you push your plant from “healthy” to “jaw-dropping.”
Want Bigger Leaves? Go Vertical.
This plant is a natural climber. Its velvety leaves increase dramatically in size when allowed to grow upward with support.
Use a moss pole, coir totem, or vertical slab
Keep the support moist to activate aerial root attachment
Tie the stem gently using Velcro or soft plant ties
Provide bright, consistent light from the side
💡 Aerial root contact + humidity = signal for the plant to produce larger foliage
Rotate Regularly for Even Growth
‘Splendid’ tends to lean toward its light source. If you want symmetrical, upright growth:
Rotate the pot 90° every 1–2 weeks
Watch for lopsided weight — support top-heavy plants to avoid tipping
Keep Leaves Dust-Free
Velvety leaves attract dust, which reduces photosynthesis and dulls the vibrant look.
Gently wipe with a dry microfiber cloth
Never mist or spray water directly—this encourages spotting and fungal issues
Clean every 1–2 weeks for optimal shine and airflow
Avoid Repotting Right After Shipping
Just received a 'Splendid' in the mail?
Let it acclimate for 3–4 weeks before repotting — even if roots are circling
Repotting immediately increases the risk of transplant shock, especially in cooler months
Focus on humidity, warmth, and low stress until you see new growth
💡Rule of thumb: If it’s pushing a new leaf, it’s stable enough to handle change.
Watch for Seasonal Transitions (Without Overreacting)
Even indoors, changes in light hours and temperature affect growth.
Don’t panic if growth slows in winter — it’s normal if you are not using grow lights
Reduce watering slightly if the plant is resting, but don’t let it dry out
Maintain consistent humidity even when heating systems dry out the air
If in Doubt, Test and Adjust Gradually
‘Splendid’ reacts slowly to changes, which means:
Avoid sudden lighting shifts (e.g. moving from shade to grow light overnight)
Transition between substrates (e.g. soil to Pon) gradually over a few weeks
Monitor new growth for signs of improvement or stress — not older leaves
Advanced Setup Ideas:
Grow tent with humidifier + grow light = velvet-leaf dream zone
Wall-mounted moss pole = vertical jungle aesthetic
Clear pots = root monitoring without guessing
10. Frequently Asked Questions About Philodendron 'Splendid'
❓ Is Philodendron 'Splendid' hard to care for?
Not particularly. It’s much easier than its parent species (melanochrysum and verrucosum), making it a great choice for intermediate growers. As long as you provide bright indirect light, high humidity (60–80 %), and avoid soggy soil, it adapts well indoors.
❓ Why are the leaves on my Philodendron 'Splendid' turning yellow?
Most commonly:
Overwatering or poor drainage
Low light
Sudden cold exposure
Natural aging of older leaves
Check the soil moisture, potting mix, and light levels. If the yellowing is only on the oldest leaf, it's often normal.
❓ How do I make the leaves grow bigger?
Train the plant vertically on a moss pole
Keep humidity above 60 %
Provide bright indirect light (not low light)
Use a balanced fertiliser during active growth
Leaf size is directly tied to environment and vertical support.
❓ How do I propagate Philodendron 'Splendid'?
Via stem cuttings or air layering.Cuttings should include at least one node. Root in water, sphagnum moss, or perlite. Air layering is safer for large or valuable plants and allows roots to form before separation.
❓ Can I grow Philodendron 'Splendid' in LECA or semi-hydro?
Yes. It adapts well to Pon, LECA, or other mineral substrates, especially when humidity is high. Use a nutrient solution, maintain a shallow reservoir, and flush periodically to prevent salt buildup.
❓ Is Philodendron 'Splendid' pet-safe?
No. Like all aroids, it contains calcium oxalate crystals and is toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested. Keep out of reach, and wear gloves when handling if you have sensitive skin.
❓ Can I keep it in a low-light room?
You can — but don’t expect impressive growth.
In low light, it will:
Grow slower
Produce smaller leaves
Possibly become leggy or lose colour vibrance
Supplement with grow lights if natural light is lacking.
❓ How fast does Philodendron 'Splendid' grow?
With ideal conditions (light, warmth, humidity, feeding), it can produce multiple new leaves per season and grow 1–2 m per year. Growth slows noticeably in dry or cool conditions.
❓ Does Philodendron 'Splendid' flower?
Rarely in indoor cultivation—and even if it did, the flowers are sterile. As a hybrid, it doesn’t produce viable seeds. It’s grown purely for its stunning foliage.
Conclusion: Why Philodendron 'Splendid' Deserves a Spot in Your Collection
If you’ve ever wanted a velvet-leaf aroid that delivers drama without the drama, Philodendron 'Splendid' is it.
Bred for beauty and resilience, this hybrid combines the deep green elegance of melanochrysum with the bold veining of verrucosum — but leaves behind the fussiness that makes both parents infamous. It climbs. It roots easily. It flourishes in the right conditions and forgives mild missteps.
Whether you're growing indoors under lights or next to a north-facing window, 'Splendid' rewards:
Consistent, mindful care
Propagation is simple, pests are manageable, and with the right support, those velvet leaves can easily reach half a metre in length.
In short? This isn’t just a “collector plant.” It’s a keeper.
Already imagining it climbing in your space?
Then maybe you don’t stop at just 'Splendid'. If you're into its look and attitude, you might also want to welcome its famous parents — Philodendron melanochrysum and Philodendron verrucosum — into your collection. Growing all three side by side not only completes the set, but also lets you see how each one expresses its traits in different ways.
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