The philodendron silver sword, also known as philodendron hastatum, is a beautiful and exotic looking tropical plant that is gaining popularity as a houseplant. This philodendron species is native to South America and features glossy, silvery-green leaves that emerge from a clustering rhizome. With its elongated foliage that resembles a sword, the philodendron silver sword makes a striking addition to indoor plant collections. Growing and caring for this eye-catching philodendron requires paying close attention to several key factors.
Light Requirements
The philodendron silver sword thrives in bright, indirect light. Place this plant near an east or west facing window where it will receive a few hours of gentle morning or late afternoon sun. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the foliage.
This philodendron will tolerate lower light levels, but growth will slow. The leaves may also lose some of their striking silvery-green coloring in darker conditions. Proper light is key to keeping the philodendron silver sword looking its best.
Soil
Use a well-draining, porous potting mix for the philodendron silver sword. A quality potting soil containing ingredients like peat moss, perlite, coco coir, and bark will provide the drainage and aeration roots need.
The rhizome of this plant is prone to rot if kept too wet. A mix that retains moisture but also allows excess water to quickly flow out is ideal.
Watering
Water the philodendron silver sword when the top inch or so of soil is dry. This plant prefers moist, but not wet soil. Allow the potting mix to nearly dry out between waterings.
When watering, pour enough so that liquid flows freely from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This ensures the entire root zone receives hydration.
Reduce watering frequency in winter when growth slows. The philodendron silver sword is sensitive to overwatering, so err on the side of under-watering if unsure. The foliage will begin to droop if the plant needs more frequent watering.
Humidity
High humidity is beneficial for the philodendron silver sword. Recreate the steamy tropical environment this plant originates from by using a pebble tray or humidifier to maintain 40-60% humidity around the plant.
Misting the leaves occasionally can provide a humidity boost as well. Just be sure to do this early in the day so leaves have time to dry before night, as wet foliage is more prone to disease.
Temperature
Normal indoor temperatures between 65-80°F suit the philodendron silver sword well. Avoid drafty areas as this plant does not tolerate cold temps or sudden temperature changes.
Fertilizer
Feed the philodendron silver sword with a diluted houseplant fertilizer during the active growing season from spring through summer. This provides nutrients for lush growth.
Reduce fertilizer application in fall and winter when light levels and growth naturally decline. Fertilizing too heavily during darker months can damage roots.
Pruning
Prune off any yellow, dying, or dead leaves at the base of the stem to maintain a tidy appearance. Use sterilized pruning shears for clean cuts.
Removing spent leaves also encourages new growth. You can cut off any unwanted trailing stems if the philodendron silver sword is becoming too large or unruly.
Potting and Repotting
The philodendron silver sword can be grown in a pot or hanging basket. Choose a container with drainage holes and use a quality potting mix, as previously mentioned.
Repot this plant every 2-3 years in early spring. Move it into a slightly larger container to provide room for new rhizome growth. Remove any circling roots and prune any excess before repotting.
Propagation
The philodendron silver sword propagates easily from stem cuttings. Use a sharp, sterile knife or pruning shears to remove a stem with a few leaves. Allow the cut end to dry or callous over.
Place the cutting in water or moist potting mix. New roots will emerge in a few weeks and the cutting can be potted up. Keep the soil moist but not saturated as the young plant establishes.
Common Problems
Overwatering is the most common cause of issues with philodendron silver sword. Soggy soil invites fungal diseases like root rot and invites pests like fungus gnats. Allow soil to dry out adequately between waterings.
Lack of humidity can lead to dry, brown leaf tips. Increase moisture in the air to prevent this.
Too much direct sun will burn the foliage. Move to a shadier spot if leaves develop scorched spots.
FAQs
How big do philodendron silver swords get?
Given proper care and adequate space, the philodendron silver sword can grow quite large, sometimes up to 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It has a vining growth habit and will become bushy over time. Growth can be contained by regular pruning if desired.
How do you make a philodendron silver sword grow faster?
Bright, indirect light, consistent watering, humidity, and monthly fertilizer during the growing season will help maximize growth. Avoid stressors like extreme temperatures or droughts. Repotting into a larger container every couple years provides more room for root development.
What type of philodendron is silver sword?
Silver sword is one variety of vining philodendron from the Philodendron hastatum species. It features elongated, silvery-green leaves that emerge from a rhizome. Other common names for this plant include silver leaf philodendron, orange-tip philodendron, and philodendron domesticum.
Is silver sword philodendron rare?
The philodendron silver sword is still somewhat uncommon compared to other philodendron varieties, but it is gaining popularity. As more plant collectors add silver sword philodendrons to their collections, it is becoming more widely propagated and available to purchase from specialty plant retailers.
How often to water philodendron silver sword?
Water the philodendron silver sword when the top inch or so of soil is dry to the touch. This can range from weekly watering to every 10-14 days, depending on factors like light, temperature, humidity, time of year, and size of container. Always check soil moisture before watering to avoid oversaturation.
Why are the leaves on my silver sword turning yellow?
Yellow leaves on a philodendron silver sword are often caused by overwatering. Allow soil to dry out more between waterings. Insufficient humidity can also cause yellowing along with dry brown leaf tips. Increase humidity around the plant and mist leaves regularly. If many leaves rapidly yellow at once, root rot may be present.
Should I mist my philodendron silver sword?
Light misting can help boost humidity around the plant. Just be cautious not to get the foliage and rhizome too wet, as excess moisture invites disease. Only mist in the morning so leaves have time to fully dry over the course of the day.
Conclusion
With its eye-catching silvery foliage, the philodendron silver sword makes a stellar addition to indoor tropical plant collections. Caring for this exotic philodendron revolves heavily around providing the right amount of bright, indirect light and avoiding overwatering. Give this plant well-draining soil, humid conditions, occasional fertilizer, and prompt pruning and it will flourish indoors. Follow these tips for growing healthy and vibrant philodendron silver swords.