Philodendron Atabapoense

Philodendron atabapoense is a stunning tropical plant native to the Amazon region, specifically the Atabapo River area in Colombia and Venezuela. This plant is known for its large, heart-shaped leaves and its striking burgundy stems, which can add a bold touch to any indoor space. Leaves can reach 2-3 ft leaves. To keep your Philodendron atabapoense thriving, proper care and attention to its specific needs are essential.

Light: As mentioned earlier, Philodendron atabapoense prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate moderate light conditions as well. To help the plant thrive, aim for a spot with plenty of filtered light—east or west-facing windows are ideal. If the plant starts to look leggy or its growth slows down, it might be a sign it needs more light. However, avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the delicate leaves, so a sheer curtain can help filter light if needed.

Watering and Humidity: This plant enjoys consistently moist soil but hates sitting in water. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings to avoid root rot. A well-draining potting mix with ingredients like perlite or coconut coir is ideal. Philodendron atabapoense also thrives in higher humidity levels, ideally around 60-80%. To achieve this, consider placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, using a humidifier, or grouping it with other plants to create a more humid microclimate. Regular misting can help, but be careful not to overdo it, as prolonged moisture on the leaves can promote fungal issues.

Temperature: Being a tropical plant, it prefers warm temperatures and does not tolerate cold well. Keep it in an environment where temperatures stay between 65-85°F. Avoid placing it near cold drafts or air conditioners, as this can cause stress and slow its growth.

Fertilizing and Feeding: During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your Philodendron atabapoense every 4-6 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. This will encourage lush, healthy growth. During the fall and winter months, when the plant is not actively growing, reduce or eliminate fertilizing altogether.

Repotting: Repot your Philodendron atabapoense every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its pot. When repotting, ensure you use fresh, well-draining soil to give the roots plenty of room to grow. If you notice that the plant's roots are becoming crowded or that the soil drains poorly, it's time for a bigger pot.

Tips and Tricks:

Support: This plant is a vining species, so providing a moss pole or trellis for it to climb can encourage its natural growth habit and enhance its aesthetic. The plant will appreciate this vertical growth space and produce larger leaves as it climbs.

Leaf Care: Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and allow the plant to "breathe" more easily. Clean leaves also make the plant look more vibrant.

Propagation: Philodendron atabapoense can be propagated easily through stem cuttings. Just ensure you cut below a node and place the cutting in water or directly in soil. The process is relatively fast, and you'll soon have a new plant to care for!