Syngonium macrophyllum ‘Ice Frost’ – frosted heart-shaped foliage


Syngonium ‘Ice Frost’ (also called ‘Frosted Heart’) delights with large, soft green heart-shaped leaves dusted in silvery frost. If you want a dramatic, lush climber that still feels manageable, this cultivar gives you bold foliage with surprisingly easy care.
 
● What makes Syngonium ‘Ice Frost’ special


Leaves are pillowy and heart-shaped, with a cool, frosted green surface that catches light beautifully. As it climbs or matures, leaf size increases significantly; you’ll often see leaves well over 20-25 cm wide under good conditions. Juvenile plants stay compact, while mature vines can reach impressive length when supported. Growth speed is moderate to steady, slower than Syngonium podophyllum but reliable if given light, warmth, and vertical support.
 
● Natural origin and botanical background


Syngonium macrophyllum Engl. was published in Pflanzenr., IV, 23E: 128 (1920). Native to humid tropical forests of Central and South America, it grows as a hemiepiphyte, rooting at the base of trees and climbing with aerial roots. ‘Ice Frost’ (also known as ‘Frosted Heart’) is a selected cultivar valued for its frosted foliage and broad leaf form. In nature, related plants thrive in shaded understory conditions with warm, moist air.
 
● How to care for Syngonium ‘Ice Frost’


Light: Bright, indirect light enhances the frosted effect. Avoid harsh midday sun to prevent scorch. In lower light, growth slows and the frost pattern looks less vivid.
Water: Water when the top ~2 cm of substrate feels dry. Keep soil evenly moist, never waterlogged.
Substrate: A loose, airy aroid mix with bark, perlite, or coco coir works best. Semi-hydro or mineral substrates are also suitable if drainage is good.
Temperature and humidity: Prefers 18 – 28 °C and humidity above ~50 – 60 %. Dry air can cause brown tips.
Fertilizer: Balanced liquid feed at low to moderate strength, applied regularly throughout active growth.
Pruning and support: Provide a moss pole or trellis for larger leaves and stronger growth. Repot when roots crowd the container.
Propagation: Use stem cuttings with a node and aerial root; root in water or a moist, airy medium.
Troubleshooting common ‘Ice Frost’ issues
Yellowing leaves: Usually from excess water or poor drainage. Let substrate dry more and check pot drainage.
Brown edges: Often caused by low humidity or direct sun. Increase humidity and move to filtered light.
Slow growth: Normal compared to faster Syngonium species, but can improve with brighter light and consistent feeding.
Pests: Watch for spider mites or mealybugs on leaf undersides; treat promptly with insecticidal soap if needed.
 
● Additional notes and collector appeal


Toxic if ingested (contains calcium oxalate), so keep out of reach of pets and children. Collectors value ‘Ice Frost’ for its broad, frosted leaves and manageable growth pace. With support and good care, it becomes a striking focal point in an indoor jungle.
 
● Etymology and naming


The genus name Syngonium comes from Greek syn (“together”) and gonē (“ovary”), referring to fused female floral structures. The species epithet macrophyllum means “large leaf,” describing the broad foliage. The cultivar name ‘Ice Frost’ (syn. ‘Frosted Heart’) highlights its cool, frosted surface and heart-shaped leaves.
 
● Questions about Syngonium ‘Ice Frost’


How large will ‘Ice Frost’ grow indoors?
With support, vines reach ~90 – 120 cm or more, and leaves can exceed 20 – 30 cm in width. Without a pole, it stays more compact and trailing.
Can I grow ‘Ice Frost’ in semi-hydro?
Yes — it adapts well to mineral or inert substrates if moisture and aeration are balanced. Roots transition smoothly from soil to semi-hydro.
How often should I repot ‘Ice Frost’?
Repot every 1 – 2 years when roots crowd the pot or growth slows. Move up one pot size to avoid excess moisture retention.
Is ‘Ice Frost’ safe for pets?
No. Like all Syngoniums, it contains calcium oxalate crystals that can irritate if chewed or ingested.
 
● Add Syngonium ‘Ice Frost’ to your collection


Want bold, frosted foliage with a softer growth pace than common arrowhead vines? Order Syngonium ‘Ice Frost’ today and let this cultivar bring depth and texture to your collection.