philodendron micans plant
Discover watering, soil, fertilizing, pests, styling, and troubleshooting tips for Philodendron Micans plant
from our experience growing and caring for it in our Brooklyn home!
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philodendron Micans plant care guide
lineage and Symbolism
The Philodendron Micans (aka Philodendron hederaceum var. micans) has heart-shaped leaves shimmer with a soft, velvety texture that changes from deep green to rich purple hues under different lighting—a rare sort of in the houseplant world 🙂 It’s perfect on a bookshelf, trailing gracefully or climbing up a moss pole to fill vertical spaces. Philodendron Micans can grow several feet with proper care!
The Philodendron Micans symbolizes growth, adaptability, and resilience which makes it an ideal match for nurturing, and adaptable Cancer!
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“I could not be any happier with this gorgeous plant! I have about 150 plants and this has to be in my top 5! just so unique and easy to care! “
Light and placement
What is the light requirement for philodendron micans?
The Philodendron Micans does best in bright, indirect light but also adapts well to medium light making it perfect near an east or north-facing window where sunlight is softer. We aim for around 6 hours of filtered light a day. Dimmer spots may slow its growth. If you’re considering a lower-light spot, keep an eye on its color: darker leaves mean it’s adapting well.
How to know if philodendron micans is not getting right amount of light?
If our Philodendron Micans is getting too little light, we’ll notice its leaves losing their deep colors and new growth becoming sparse and stretched as it reaches for more sunlight. If it’s getting too much direct sun, especially during midday, its leaves may develop scorch marks or turn a dull brown – Mostly common in brighter summer months when the sun is more intense.
Where to place philodendron micans and where to avoid?
For the Philodendron Micans, we like to find a cozy spot near an east or north-facing window where it can soak in soft, indirect light: placing it on a shelf, windowsill, or in a hanging planter nearby works beautifully. Avoid areas close to south- or west-facing windows. The intense afternoon rays there can be too harsh. If you only have a brighter window, a sheer curtain can help soften the light.
During summer, move the plant a bit further from bright windows if the light gets intense. In winter, keep it closer to an east or south-facing window to make the most of the limited sunlight!
Soil
What soil composition to use for philodendron micans?
For our Philodendron Micans, a loose, well-draining soil mix works best: we prefer a blend of 40% potting soil, 30% loam, and 30% perlite or orchid bark. This balance supports good drainage while retaining enough moisture for moderate watering. A slightly acidic pH of around 5.5-6.0 is ideal to keep its nutrients accessible. Avoid heavy soils, which can lead to root rot, and make sure any standard potting mix is lightened with perlite or orchid bark additions for healthier growth.
Best soil to use for philodendron micans plant?
This is a great soil mix for your Philodendron Micans plant, and suitable for most other trailing indoor plants as well! If you’re using other potting mixes, just make sure to add more perlite!
Temperature and Humidity
What is the best temperature condition for philodendron micans plant?
For the Philodendron Micans, we aim for a comfortable temperature range of 65-80°F (18-27°C). In warmer regions or summer months keep it out of direct sunlight, as leaves may wilt or develop brown edges from excess heat. If you’re in a colder area, ensure temperatures don’t drop below 55°F (13°C) to avoid cold damage like yellowing or curled leaves.
What is the best humidity condition for philodendron micans plant?
The Philodendron Micans loves moderate to high humidity, ideally around 60-70%. In drier climates or during winter heating: add a humidifier or do occasional misting to prevent the leaves from curling or browning at the edges. If the humidity gets too high—especially in warmer, summer months—you might notice leaves becoming soft or prone to fungal spots. So ensure good airflow around the plant or keep it outside in a shaded area.
Adjusting humidity by season keeps this philodendron looking lush and vibrant and velvety, which is this plants highlight!
Our favorite humidifiers
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fertilizer
What is the best fertilizer composition to use for philodendron micans plant?
We recommend a 3-1-2 ratio monthly during the growing season—three parts nitrogen, one part phosphorus, and two parts potassium—to mimic its natural nutrient intake. In low light or cooler months, reduce feeding frequency to avoid excess nutrients.
For a simple DIY recipe: mix one tablespoon of coffee grounds with a gallon of water for a nitrogen boost—just make sure to use sparingly to avoid over-fertilizing.
How and when to fertilize philodendron micans plant?
We fertilize our Philodendron Micans once a month during spring and summer with a water-soluble fertilizer like Plant Magic recommended below. Dilute it to half strength, then apply directly to the soil—avoid splashing on the leaves to prevent burn. In fall and winter, we hold off, as the plant’s growth slows and excess nutrients aren’t needed. Definitely water the plant before hand to prevent any sort of burn.
What are the signs philodendron micans plant needs food?
If our Philodendron Micans shows slower growth, pale or yellowing leaves, or smaller-than-usual new leaves, it’s often a sign it could use a nutrient boost. Another sign to watch for is weak, leggy growth, especially during its active growing season in spring and summer.
Best fertilizer to use for philodendron micans plant?
Pots and planters
What are the best pots to use for philodendron micans plant?
The Philodendron Micans is a fantastic choice for hanging planters due to its natural trailing growth. As it matures, its vines cascade beautifully, making it perfect for high shelves or hanging baskets. If placing it on the shelf, we recommend a lightweight, porous material like terracotta for the pot with a round or slightly deep shape at the bottom, allowing space for the roots to expand. Resin or plastic hanging planter are ideal, but you could also style them with hanging baskets.
Our favorite hanging pots for philodendron micans
Watering
How and When to water philodendron micans plant?
The Philodendron Micans thrives in consistently moist but never waterlogged soil: we water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week in spring and summer, and reduce to bi-weekly in fall and winter.
The best technique? Pour water slowly around the soil’s edge until it flows from the drainage holes. This ensures the roots get a thorough soak without oversaturating.
what are the Signs of over or under watering philodendron micans plant?
Overwatering shows up as yellowing leaves that feel soft or mushy, especially on lower stems—a sign roots are sitting in excess moisture. If left too long, you may notice a musty odor from root rot. Underwatering causes leaves to curl inward and take on a dry, brittle texture; they might also develop brown tips or edges
Our favorite watering cans
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pruning
When to prune philodendron micans plant and why?
Pruning your Philodendron Micans keeps it healthy, encourages bushier growth, and removes any dead or leggy parts. This trailing plant can become sparse or overly long if left untrimmed. Late winter or early spring, just before the growing season, is the best time to prune. Especially If you notice long, leggy vines with fewer leaves, browning or yellowing leaves, or slow growth, these are signs it’s ready for a trim.
how to prune philodendron micans plant (step by step)?
Prepare Your Tools
Use sharp, clean pruning shears to avoid tearing the stems or introducing disease. Disinfect them with rubbing alcohol to ensure no contaminants harm your plant.
Identify Where to Cut
Focus on cutting just above a node, the small bump on the stem where leaves emerge. This promotes new growth at that point. Identify any leggy or unhealthy sections and plan to prune those first.
Make Clean Cuts
Carefully position your shears above the node, and make a clean, angled cut. This prevents water from pooling on the cut and reduces the risk of rot. Remove any yellowing or browning leaves entirely to keep the plant healthy.
Trim for Shape and Size
If you want to encourage fuller growth, prune a few inches off longer vines to stimulate branching. For a cascading look, you may keep the main vines longer while trimming any unwanted side shoots.
how to care after pruning philodendron micans plant?
After pruning, place the plant in a warm spot with bright, indirect light. Water sparingly until new growth appears. Too much moisture can stress the newly cut stems. New growth should appear with lush foliage!
propagating
When to Propagate philodendron micans plant?
Propagating Philodendron Micans is a rewarding way to grow new plants, and stem cuttings in water or soil is the easiest and most effective method. Propagation is best done in early spring, just before the plant’s active growing season!
how to Propagate philodendron micans plant (step by step)?
Choose a Healthy Vine
Find a healthy vine with at least two to nodes (the small bumps where leaves and roots grow). Avoid any section with yellow or damaged leaves. It should look like the image shown to the left above.
Make the Cut
Using sterilized scissors or shears, cut just below a node, ensuring each cutting has at least two nodes and a few healthy leaves at the top.
Prepare the Cutting
Remove any lower leaves to leave the nodes exposed, as these will produce roots. Only the top leaves should remain to avoid rotting in the water.
Place in Water
Fill a clear glass or jar with room-temperature water and place the cutting so that the nodes are submerged, but no leaves touch the water. This visibility helps monitor root growth. It should look like the image shown to the right above.
Provide Ideal Conditions
Position the jar in a spot with bright, indirect light. Change the water every few days to keep it fresh and prevent bacterial growth.
how to care after propagating philodendron micans plant?
Once roots reach about 2-3 inches (usually within 3-4 weeks), transplant the cutting into a small pot with a light, well-draining soil mix. After potting, water lightly, and gradually acclimate the new plant to its environment by keeping it in indirect light and maintaining moderate humidity. Don’t fertilize or over water. Give it some time – usually about 2-3 months – and then you could give feood and adjust your watering schedule to once in a couple of weeks!
Troubleshooting common issues
1. Why is my Philodendron Micans losing its vibrant color?
Cause: Insufficient light often dulls the plant’s deep green and burgundy hues.
Solution: Place it in bright, indirect light to bring back its rich color. Avoid direct sun though, which can scorch the delicate leaves.
2. Why are there spots on my Philodendron Micans’ leaves?
Cause: Spots could result from fungal infections, often caused by excess moisture.
Solution: Improve airflow around the plant and avoid wetting the leaves. Trim off affected parts and consider a mild fungicide if the spots persist.
3. Why are the leaves of my Philodendron Micans yellowing?
Cause: Yellowing can be a sign of overwatering or nutrient deficiency.
Solution: Let the soil dry out between waterings and check for proper drainage. If yellowing persists – try a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
4. Why are there brown tips on my Philodendron Micans’ leaves?
Cause: Low humidity, or salt buildup from fertilizer may cause browning tips.
Solution: Increase humidity around the plant, water consistently, and flush the soil occasionally to remove any salt buildup. Try putting this plant in a well lit bathroom for a few weeks!
6. Why are my Philodendron Micans’ leaves curling?
Cause: Leaf curling can result from either too much direct sunlight or underwatering.
Solution: Move it to a spot with filtered light and water the plant regularly – keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy.
7. Why is my Philodendron Micans not growing well or looking sparse?
Cause: Slow growth or sparseness often points to inadequate nutrients or low light.
Solution: Feed the plant monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season and also ensure it’s getting bright, indirect light to support healthy growth. Ideally placed before a north or east facing window. But if that’s not an option, keep it in medium light rather than keeping it in a direct sunlight spot.
curated styling tips for philodendron micans plant
1.Bamboo Ladder Shelf: Place your Philodendron Micans in a terracotta or clay pot on a bamboo ladder shelf near a north or east facing window. The earthy, natural look of terracotta complements the plant’s velvety, deep green and burgundy leaves, and the bamboo adds warmth and an organic touch. Let the leaves trail down for a cascading effect, and place it on an upper tier to allow for indirect light!
2.Burlap-Wrapped Pot on a Wooden Stand: Wrap the Micans’ pot in a natural burlap cloth and secure it with twine for a rustic, farmhouse-style look. Place it on a low wooden stand near a window with indirect light. The burlap helps with airflow around the pot, and the wooden stand raises the plant and allows its trailing vines to cascade down for a striking visual display!
3.Iron Wall-Mounted Ring with Cork Planter: Mount a metal ring or circular holder on the wall and place the Micans in a cork planter. The cork offers excellent insulation and is eco-friendly, while the iron ring adds a minimalist industrial edge. This setup allows the vines to drape elegantly.
FAQ
Is philodendron micans plant toxic to pets?
Yes, Philodendron Micans is toxic to pets if ingested, as it contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation or swelling in the mouth and throat
Does philodendron micans plant like to be placed outside in summer?
Yes, but only in a shaded area with indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves. Bring it inside when temperatures dip below 55°F (13°C) to avoid stress or damage to the plant.
What are advantages and disadvantages of philodendron micans plant?
Advantages include its lush, trailing growth and ease of care, which add beauty to any indoor space. On the downside, it requires consistent humidity, and its toxicity makes it unsuitable for homes with pets or small children.
What are common signs of stress in Philodendron Micans?
If leaves turn yellow or brown, it’s often due to overwatering or too much direct sun. Drooping leaves may indicate a need for more humidity or slightly more water. Regularly monitoring its conditions helps us catch and address these signs early.
How fast does the Philodendron Micans grow?
Philodendron Micans is a moderate to fast grower, especially in spring and summer. With the right light, water, and humidity, we can expect it to produce new leaves regularly and reach several feet in length as it trails.
Can we grow Philodendron Micans in low light?
While it prefers bright, indirect light, Philodendron Micans can adapt to low-light conditions – though it may grow slower and its leaves may lose some of their vibrant color. A spot with moderate light keeps it healthier.
Does Philodendron Micans require high humidity?
While it can tolerate average indoor humidity, this plant truly thrives in higher humidity (around 60-70%). In drier climates use a humidifier, or even better, place this lush hanging plant by your bathroom window!
