Philodendron hederaceum, the heartleaf philodendron (often sold as oxycardium), is a classic, ultra-easy trailing houseplant with glossy, deep-green heart-shaped leaves on slender cascading stems. Adaptable and forgiving, it thrives in a wide range of indoor light, tolerates occasional neglect and helps freshen the air, making it ideal for beginners. It looks lovely spilling from hanging baskets and shelves or climbing a moss pole for larger leaves. Fast-growing in warmth and easy to propagate from cuttings, it is among the most reliable green companions for homes and offices, asking only for indirect light and moderate, consistent watering.
Specifications
| Family |
Araceae |
| Native region |
Central and South America |
| Mature height |
Trails 2-4 m indoors |
| Mature spread |
30-60 cm |
| Growth rate |
Fast |
| Foliage |
Glossy green heart-shaped leaves |
| Flower colour |
Rarely flowers indoors |
| Flower season |
ā |
| Climate zone |
Tropical |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Bright indirect light; tolerates medium light |
| Watering |
Water when top 2-3 cm of soil dries |
| Soil / mix |
Well-drained airy potting mix |
| Temperature |
18-30°C; protect from cold drafts |
| Humidity |
Average home humidity; enjoys higher |
| Fertilizer |
Balanced liquid feed monthly in growing season |
| Pruning |
Trim to keep bushy and control length |
| Repotting |
Every 1-2 years when rootbound |
| Propagation |
Very easy by stem cuttings in water or soil |
| Pests & problems |
Watch mealybugs, aphids and spider mites |
| Toxicity / safety |
Toxic to pets and humans if chewed |
| Difficulty |
Very easy |
Uses
A versatile indoor trailing or climbing plant for hanging baskets, shelves, desks and moss poles, and a popular air-freshening houseplant.
Growing tips
In India keep it in bright, filtered indoor light and water moderately; let it climb a moss pole in warm, humid spots for larger, lusher leaves.