Philodendron Shangri-La is a stunning tropical plant known for its large, deeply lobed leaves and ease of care. With the right conditions, this philodendron variety can grow into an impressive, bushy houseplant. Read on to learn more about how to successfully grow and care for Philodendron Shangri-La.
Overview of Philodendron Shangri-La
Philodendron Shangri-La is a hybrid variety in the large, diverse philodendron genus. It is known for its extra large foliage that can grow up to 3 feet long on mature plants. The leaves have deep sinuses between the lobes, giving them a very dramatic, bold appearance.
This plant was bred to highlight decorative features favored by indoor plant growers – prolific growth, tolerance of a range of light conditions, and suitability for training up supports and trailing from hanging baskets. Indeed, Philodendron Shangri-La makes an excellent houseplant. With proper care, it thrives indoors and adds a tropical, exotic feel to any space.
Native habitat: Philodendron Shangri-La is a hybrid plant created by cross-breeding different philodendron species. It does not exist naturally in the wild. The parent species are native to tropical regions of South and Central America.
Plant type: Evergreen perennial vine/climber. Can be grown as a bushy potted plant or trained up a support.
Mature size: Up to 3 feet tall with leaves up to 3 feet long. Spread can reach 5 feet or more.
Light requirements: Bright, indirect light but can tolerate medium to low light. Avoid direct sun.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Prefers medium to high humidity.
Propagation: Stem cuttings.
Pruning: Remove dead leaves or stems as needed. Prune to contain size/shape.
Pest problems: Scale, mealybugs, aphids. Usually not serious.
Diseases: Bacterial leaf spot, root rot if overwatered.
Growing Conditions for Philodendron Shangri-La
Providing the right growing conditions is key to getting your Philodendron Shangri-La to thrive indoors long-term. Here are its care needs:
Light Requirements
Philodendron Shangri-La grows best in bright, indirect sunlight. An east or west-facing window is ideal. Some direct morning sun is tolerated. Avoid hot afternoon sun which can scorch the leaves.
This plant can also do well in medium light conditions. Low light will lead to slower growth. Use artificial lighting to supplement if needed.
Ideal Temperature and Humidity
Normal household temperatures between 65-80°F suit this tropical plant. Avoid cold drafts. Higher humidity levels of 50-60% will benefit the plant and prevent leaf tip browning. Use a pebble tray or humidifier to increase moisture in the air.
Soil
Use a well-draining, fertile potting mix. Add peat moss or compost to improve moisture retention. Philodendrons prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.1-6.5.
Watering and Fertilizer
Water thoroughly whenever the top few inches of soil become dry. Take care not to overwater as it can lead to root rot. Let excess water drain out. Increase watering frequency in summer or hot periods. Reduce watering in winter.
Feed monthly in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half. No feeding needed in fall and winter.
Pot Size
Repot young plants annually in early spring as needed. Move to a pot one size larger when roots fill the current container. Use a heavy pot with drainage holes to support the spreading growth.
Propagating Philodendron Shangri-La
This philodendron is easily propagated via stem cuttings in spring or summer. Here’s how:
- Take a cutting that’s a few inches long, just below a leaf node.
- Optional: Dip cut end in rooting hormone to encourage roots.
- Plant cutting in moist potting mix, sand, or water. Roots emerge in a few weeks.
- Once rooted, pot up the new plant in a small container using potting soil. Keep it sheltered as it establishes.
Mature plants can be divided in spring by separating the rosette or clump into smaller sections, each with some roots attached. Re-pot the divisions and care for as new plants.
Basic Care
Caring for your Philodendron Shangri-La requires just a few easy steps:
- Place in a bright spot, a few feet from an east or west window. Provide artificial light if needed.
- Let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly until it runs from the drainage holes.
- Mist foliage regularly and use a pebble tray to boost humidity.
- Remove dead leaves or stems at the base. Wipe dusty leaves with a damp cloth to keep them clean.
- Turn or rotate the pot periodically for even growth on all sides.
- Repot annually in spring, moving to a slightly larger container.
- Fertilize monthly in the growing season with a diluted balanced houseplant food.
Training and Pruning
To encourage bushy fill-out growth, pinch or snip off stem tip growth. For a trailing effect, allow the stems to cascade over the pot edge or plant in a hanging basket.
To save space, prune back wayward or leggy growth as needed. Remove any dead or damaged stems at the base.
Insert stakes, moss poles, or other plant supports to train climbing stems and show off the dramatic foliage. Use soft plant ties to gently guide the stems without damage.
Potential Problems and Solutions
Philodendron Shangri-La is quite robust when cared for properly. Here are some potential issues and how to handle them:
- Brown leaf tips: This is usually from low humidity. Mist regularly, use a pebble tray, or get a humidifier.
- Leaf spots: Can be a fungus or bacteria. Improve air circulation. Remove and destroy affected leaves.
- Drooping leaves: Overwatering or underwatering. Check soil moisture and adjust watering frequency.
- Leaf yellowing: Usually inadequate nutrition. Apply a balanced fertilizer regularly.
- ** leggy growth:** Needs more light. Move closer to window or add artificial light.
- Pests: Check for scale, mealybugs or aphids. Wipe off with alcohol dipped cotton swab or use insecticidal soap spray.
FAQs
How much light does a Philodendron Shangri-La need?
Bright to moderate indirect light is best, such as an east or west window. Some morning sun is ok. Low light will result in slower growth.
What’s the best way to increase humidity for this plant?
Use a humidifier, pebble tray of water, or regularly mist the leaves to keep humidity 40-60%.
When should I repot my Philodendron Shangri-La?
Repot in early spring before active growth resumes. Move it to a slightly larger pot, no more than 2 inches bigger in diameter.
Why are the leaf tips turning brown?
This is usually caused by low humidity. Try increasing humidity around the plant through misting, pebble tray, or humidifier.
How can I encourage bushy growth in my Philodendron Shangri-La?
Pinch or snip off stem tips periodically to promote branching and fullness. Rotate the plant to ensure even growth all around.
Final Thoughts
With its stunning foliage and vining growth habit, Philodendron Shangri-La makes a dramatic yet easy-care houseplant. Provide this tropical philodendron with bright indirect light, consistent moisture, and high humidity for best results. Train it up a support or grow as a bushy potted plant. To keep it bushy and compact, prune back long stems and pinch off tip growth periodically. Relocate or supplement lighting if leaves indicate insufficient light. Repot annually to provide fresh soil and room for expansion. With the simple care outlined here, Philodendron Shangri-La will grace any indoor space with a lush, exotic look for years to come.