Philodendron Paraiso Verde is a beautiful, easy-to-grow houseplant that can add a touch of the tropics to any indoor space. With large, glossy green leaves that look almost painted on, the Philodendron Paraiso Verde makes a striking addition to any home. Learning how to properly care for this plant is simple, as it thrives on minimal care and can adapt to a wide variety of conditions inside the home. Read on to learn how to grow and care for Philodendron Paraiso Verde so yours stays healthy and vibrant for years to come.
Getting to Know the Philodendron Paraiso Verde
Philodendron Paraiso Verde, also known by the names Philodendron Imperial Green or Philodendron Imperial Red, is a cultivar of the popular Philodendron genus of plants. It is native to regions of South America, where it grows as an evergreen climber in tropical jungles and rainforests.
The most striking feature of Philodendron Paraiso Verde is its large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 16 inches long and 12 inches wide. The leaves are a rich emerald green color, with striking lighter green splotchy variegation throughout. New leaves emerge with a reddish tinge before maturing to the darker green. With the right care, this philodendron remains evergreen year-round indoors.
In its native habitat, Philodendron Paraiso Verde uses aerial roots to climb up trees and rocks. Indoors, it makes an easy-to-grow houseplant that usually reaches heights of 3-4 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide. It has a vining growth habit, with long stems that gradually become woody with age.
The philodendron is especially prized for its ability to thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, from bright indirect light to lower light spots in the home. Its lush, tropical foliage adds life to any space.
Providing the Right Growing Conditions
Philodendron Paraiso Verde is adaptable to a range of indoor environments, but providing a few key growing conditions will keep it at its healthiest.
Light
While Philodendron Paraiso Verde is tolerant of lower light than many houseplants, it will thrive and produce the healthiest growth in bright, indirect light. A south or west facing window is ideal, providing plenty of gentle sunlight throughout the day.
The plant can tolerate east facing windowsills as well, although its growth may slow down. In lower light indoor spots, growth will also slow but the philodendron will likely remain healthy. Avoid direct hot sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. Rotate the pot occasionally so all sides receive adequate light.
Temperature
Average household temperatures between 60-80°F suit the Philodendron Paraiso Verde well. Avoid placing it in drafty areas or allowing the temperatures to dip much below 60°F, which can cause leaf drop. During the summer, it appreciates the higher range of 70-80°F during the day and cooler nighttime temperatures.
Humidity
High humidity mimicking the plant’s native tropical habitat supports the best growth. Ideal levels are 50-60% humidity. Use a humidifier nearby or place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water to increase moisture in the air. Mist the leaves regularly as well.
Water
Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. The plant dislikes overly wet or soggy soil. Water thoroughly when the top of the soil becomes dry to the touch and water drains freely from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. The frequency will depend on factors like lighting conditions, humidity, and size of pot. Reduce watering frequency in the winter when growth slows.
Soil
Use a good quality, well-draining potting mix for houseplants. A mixture containing ingredients like peat moss, perlite, coco coir, and bark works well. Good drainage is important to prevent soggy soil. Re-pot every 2-3 years in the spring into a slightly larger container.
Caring for Your Philodendron Paraiso Verde
With the right care, the Philodendron Paraiso Verde makes an easy, low maintenance houseplant. Follow these tips to keep it thriving happily in your home.
Pruning
Prune off any dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves at the base of the stem. This tidy habit prevents pests and diseases. Pruning also shapes the plant, directing growth and maintaining size. Use clean shears and cut right above a node, avoiding harming the stem.
Fertilizing
Apply a balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-3 months during the spring through fall when growth is most active. Reduce fertilizing over the winter.
Supporting Growth
As a vining philodendron, it may need some support as it matures and grows longer stems. Use plant stakes or a trellis to gently tie up and train stems. This helps keep the large leaves upright and supported.
Pest Prevention
Monitor regularly for common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Isolate any infested plants and use insecticidal soap as needed. Sticky traps help capture pests. Maintaining optimal growing conditions also prevents pest problems.
Propagation
Take stem cuttings in the spring or summer to propagate new Philodendron Paraiso Verde plants. Cut a stem with 3-4 leaves below a node and root in water or potting mix. Keep the cutting environment moist and warm until new roots sprout.
Common Issues With Philodendron Paraiso Verde
When provided with its preferred growing conditions, the Philodendron Paraiso Verde remains quite robust and problem-free. However, here are a few potential issues to watch for:
- Wilting or drooping leaves – This usually signals underwatering. Check soil moisture and water if the top layer is dry. Ensure the plant is not in a drafty area or exposed to cold temps.
- Leaf drop – Natural leaf drop of older leaves is normal. But if many yellow and drop, it may indicate overwatering, underwatering, or incorrect lighting. Adjust care accordingly.
- Sparse foliage – Encourage new growth by moving to a brighter location, pruning back leggy stems, and fertilizing regularly in the growing season.
- Slow growth – Low light is the most common cause of slow growth. Increase light exposure and fertilize to see if growth improves.
- Pests – Isolate plants with pests immediately and use insecticidal soap spray. Maintain optimal growing conditions to avoid pests.
- Leaf spots or browning – This can result from dry air, tap water chemicals, or sunburn. Increase humidity, use filtered water, and adjust sunlight exposure.
With the proper care, issues are rare and the Philodendron Paraiso Verde makes a foolproof indoor plant. Pay attention to its needs and take action promptly if any problems arise.
FAQs About Growing Philodendron Paraiso Verde
How much light does a Philodendron Paraiso Verde need?
Philodendron Paraiso Verde thrives in bright, indirect light. A south or west facing window is ideal. It can tolerate lower light areas but may grow more slowly. Avoid direct sunlight which can burn the leaves.
What is the best potting mix for a Philodendron Paraiso Verde?
Use a good quality potting soil meant for houseplants, with ingredients like peat moss, perlite, bark, and coco coir. Good drainage is important to prevent soggy soil.
How often should I water my Philodendron Paraiso Verde?
Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out before watering again. The plant dislikes constantly wet soil. In the winter during slower growth, reduce watering frequency. In brighter conditions or during summer, it may need water twice a week.
Should I mist my Philodendron Paraiso Verde?
Misting the leaves regularly raises the humidity around the plant, which supports the best growth. Always allow the leaves to fully dry out before nighttime to prevent disease.
What temperature is best for Philodendron Paraiso Verde?
Average household temperatures between 60-80°F suit it well. Avoid cold drafts and don’t allow nighttime temps to dip below 60°F. It welcomes the warmer range during summer.
Should I fertilize my Philodendron Paraiso Verde?
Fertilize every 2-3 months during the spring through fall with a balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce fertilizing over the winter when growth slows.
Why are the leaves on my Philodendron Paraiso Verde turning yellow?
If many leaves yellow and drop, it usually indicates overwatering or underwatering issues. Check soil moisture and adjust watering frequency. Low light or cold temps can also cause yellow leaves.
How can I encourage new growth in my Philodendron Paraiso Verde?
Increase light exposure, prune back any long and leggy stems, fertilize regularly during the growing season, and maintain optimal temperatures to see improved growth.
What causes drooping leaves on a Philodendron Paraiso Verde?
Drooping leaves usually signal underwatering. Check soil moisture and water if the top layer is dry. Keep the plant away from cold drafts which can also cause drooping.
Bringing the Tropics Indoors With Philodendron Paraiso Verde
With its large, vibrant leaves that demand attention, Philodendron Paraiso Verde adds bold tropical style to indoor spaces. Caring for this striking philodendron is simple when you provide the right amounts of bright, indirect light, consistent humidity, well-draining soil, and stable temperatures. Allow the soil to dry out moderately between waterings and fertilize regularly during the growing season.
Give this low maintenance plant a trellis or stake as support as its vines mature and grow. Prune off any dead leaves and keep watch for pests. Address any issues promptly, such as with watering adjustments, increased humidity, or pest management. With the proper care, your Philodendron Paraiso Verde will soon become a stunning showpiece in your home, thriving for many years as a tropical jewel.