Are you looking for a lovely, striking plant that looks simple yet luxurious? Here is a member of the large Philodendron group, the luscious Philodendron verrucosum. This particular Philodendron has a velvety dark green surface that enhances and pops its light green veining. It is a tropical plant that originated in Ecuador’s jungles.
Fair warning, though, that the maintenance of Philodendron verrucosum is not the simplest. They can be fussy at times. But, on the other hand, a healthy Ecuador Philodendron will quickly turn your indoor growing space into a lush green tropical zone.
Check the velvety plant out below.
Philodendron verrucosum Profile
General Information
Philodendron verrucosum is a velvety philodendron with brightly colored leaves. It is a flowering plant that belongs to the Araceae family with a hemiepiphyte life cycle that begins with developing a seed.
The gorgeous Philodendron thrives in pre-mountainous rainforest zones and belongs to the Araceae species. It is widely distributed in Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and other tropical regions in Central and South America.
Despite the fact that the Philodendron verrucosum is not as common as other philodendrons, there are various varieties to choose from. However, they might be challenging to find locally.
Etymology
The name “philodendron” comes from the Greek words “philo”, meaning “love” and “affection”, and “dendron,” meaning tree. So the Philodendron is loosely translated as “tree huggers” with these meanings. This is because they are often seen in the wild as tree climbers.
The species name “verrucosum” is a Latin word that directly means rough or rugged. This is due to the unique appearance of its foliage, having wavy edges and reddish hue flushes.
Flowering
The Philodendron verrucosum starts flowering around April. When it reaches maturity, it will bloom. The plant would most likely blossom even in the dry season. The plant produces an inflorescence called a spadix, consisting of a leaf-like spathe and an anthurium-like spadix. The flowering season of the Philodendron verrucosum varies depending on location.
Season of Interest and Purchasing
Philodendrons grow actively during the spring and summer seasons. Therefore, it is during these seasons that it is best to buy Philodendron verrucosum. Commercially, they are available worldwide. However, it might be more challenging for this specific Philodendron to get a hand on it.
Growth
Philodendron verrucosum grows quickly if given the right growing conditions, such as temperature and humidity. These plants may grow up to 3 feet tall, and their heart-shaped leaves start pale and darken as they grow.
Verrucosum is a climber, so its growth pattern is upward rather than along the surface. If you have a cold-growing Verrucosum, these plants will grow better in the winter.
Philodendron verrucosum Overview
| Scientific name | Philodendron verrucosum |
| Common name/s | Verrucosum, Ecuador Philodendron, Velvet-leaf Philodendron |
| Family | Araceae |
| Growth Habit | Herbaceous |
| Height and Spread | 10-12 inches in height, and 12-14 inches in spread |
| Classification based on life cycle | Perennial |
| Origin and Distribution | Native to Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru |
| Climate Zone | Generally mild climate |
| USDA Plant Hardiness Zone | USDA Zone 9 – 10 |
| Color | Velvet dark evergreen upper surface of leaves with lime green veins, maroon on reverse side |
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Care Tips
Light Requirement
These Verrucosum plants prefer filtered or bright, indirect light. However, it prefers less light than most houseplants or even other philodendrons. These needs are best met in an east-facing window, where the indoor plants will receive good indirect sunlight throughout the day. Avoid direct sunlight as it can harm the lovely foliage.
Temperature Requirement
In terms of temperature, Philodendron verrucosum thrives at a slightly milder climate than other tropical plants. It thrives in temperatures above 68 °F (20 °C). Because Verrucosum is a rainforest plant, it likes warmer temperatures. However, it can still grow in winter, given the right conditions.
Water Requirement
To simulate tropical forest conditions, give water extensively when watering. Do not allow the soil of your Philodendron verrucosum to completely dry out, as many plant care experts advise. With the correct substrate, you should be able to keep your plant’s roots healthy and hydrated.
If you don’t water our Philodendron frequently enough, it will begin to drop leaves. Don’t let it completely dry up, but don’t overwater it either. Overwatering causes your plant to suffer from root rot.
Humidity Requirement
Maintain a humidity level of 60% or above to keep your Philodendron verrucosum healthy and growing. These plants demand a lot of humidity because they are native to humid subtropical and tropical areas.
However, maintaining high humidity throughout your home is really tough. Therefore, you may buy a humidifier for this plant or combine it with other plants to help it out.
Soil Requirement
The health of the Philodendron verrucosum species is determined by the kind of soil it grows in. Therefore, making the proper soil combination is one of the most important aspects of caring for this plant. A well-draining and airy soil are best for Philodendron.
Many issues emerge from using the incorrect potting soil, and your plants will be stressed if they show signs of overwatering. So water often and keep the soil wet but not saturated. It will be necessary to use a potting medium with chunky elements like peat moss, coco coir, and sphagnum moss to help with aeration and proper drainage.
Fertilizer Requirement
To maintain healthy development, this attractive plant requires adequate nutrition. Therefore, fertilize at least three times during the growing season and put the fertilizers away from the base.
Slow-release fertilizer is the most acceptable type to use. Use a graded Aroid fertilizer or any organic fertilizer to feed your plant. Philodendron verrucosum will grow slowly if you do not fertilize it.
Space Requirement
In the right conditions, this lovely green plant will grow quickly. It may reach a height of 3 feet, and its leaves can grow to be up to three feet long (90 cm). Philodendron verrucosum likes climbing, so make sure you have plenty of room for them to do so. Add a moss pole for your plant to climb on.
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Growing and Planting Tips
Propagation
Philodendron verrucosum is a simple plant to propagate. Propagating your plant using stem cuttings is the most common method. The ideal times to propagate Philodendron verrucosum are usually spring and summer.
Pinch off two or three pairs of leaves from a capable stem for propagation. Place the stem cuttings of Philodendron verrucosum in sphagnum moss. Water, perlite, or soil directly are all possible options. You should notice roots developing after 3 to 4 weeks.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for this plant. But if you want to control the growth and shape of your plant, take a cutting from it with a pair of clean, sharp scissors or even a knife. Make sure the cutting is at least a few inches and contains at least one node and one leaf.
During the growth season, you can prune your Philodendron verrucosum to increase blooming success and direct any energy and nutrients toward the development of new leaves.
Potting and Repotting
Report your Philodendron verrucosum every 1-2 years to avoid it becoming pot-bound. Choose a pot size that will allow the plant to develop an extensive root system and enable humidity around the plant to rise and extend its roots. In addition, it should have enough drainage.
If possible, re-pot during the growth season (spring and summer) and use proper well draining potting mix.
Philodendron verrucosum Care
| Light | Medium to indirect bright light |
| Temperature | Intermediate to warm, above 68 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Water | Once a week, increased in summer, decreased in winter |
| Soil | Airy, well-draining soil; not too loose |
| Fertilization | Regular household fertilizer, once a month |
| Space | Plenty of space to climb |
| Propagation | Via stem cutting propagation |
| Blooming | Rarely blooms, enough sunlight and maturity needed |
| Pruning | Regular pruning |
| Potting | Regular potting mix, use of peat, charcoal, perlite and orchid bark is recommended |
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Problems and Troubleshooting
Overwatering
Yellowing leaves, usually the first indicator, are a sign of an overwatered Philodendron verrucosum. Take this as a warning sign and reduce the frequency with which you water your Philodendron verrucosum.
If overwatering is the culprit, you may need to remove and replace the soil entirely. It would be best to inspect the roots for signs of root rot.
Underwatering
The leaves of a Verrucosum plant that has been underwatered will be wrinkled and shriveled. You will notice plenty of dried-up, dead leaves at the bottom of the plant as the plant starts losing its water storage.
Depending on your condition, underwatering can be corrected by a good drench and a better-adjusted watering schedule.
Nutrient Deficiency
A nutrient deficiency occurs when a Verrucosum does not have an adequate supply of an essential nutrient necessary for growth. Without enough crucial nutrients, your verrucose will not develop properly and will show a variety of symptoms that indicate a deficiency.
Symptoms include stunted root growth and leaf formations, yellow and browning of leaf surfaces and tips, among many others. To ensure that your Verrucosum thrives, keep in mind that it also requires high humidity, bright indirect light, and mild temperatures aside from nutrition.
Flowering Problems
This plant does not produce regular flowers. Maintain the right atmosphere and nourish your plant as needed to ensure a blossoming Philodendron verrucosum. The flowers can be hand pollinated in the hopes of producing fruit seeds.
Philodendron verrucosum Pests and Diseases
| Common Pests/Diseases | Symptoms | Treatment and Prevention |
Common diseases include crown rot, stem rot, root rot, leaf spot, fungal diseases, and Xanthomonas infection | Yellowish rimming around black or dark brown spots on leaves | Avoid overwatering. Keep soil dry. Avoid too high humidity. Proper ventilation is needed around the plant. Remove infected parts of fungal infections to avoid spreading |
| Common pests include mealybugs, spider mites, aphids, and scales | Visible insects on the surface | Spray plant with warm, soapy water. If infestation is present, use insecticide or neem oil. Use diatomaceous earth. |
Problems with People and Animals
Toxicity
Plants of the genus Philodendron verrucosum are not lethal to people. Still, they contain calcium oxalate crystals, which cause a burning sensation and irritation when they contact sensitive tissues such as the lips or tongue. So keep it out of reach of your child and pets.
Philodendron Plants Meaning and Symbolism
Many Philodendrons are grown as ornamental and indoor plants. The name derives from the Greek words philo-, or “love, affection,” and dendron, or “tree.” These translations symbolize affection and love for nature. They are good gifts to nature lovers and people who advocate eco-friendly living. On the other hand, they also represent personal growth.
Philodendron was used by Pablo Picasso in his work “Woman in the Garden,” where the leaves may be seen with the nymph Daphne.
Philodendron verrucosum Symbolism and Meaning
| General Meaning | love of nature, passion for eco-friendly living |
| Symbolism | personal growth |
| Cultural Significance | used by Pablo Picasso in his work “Woman in the Garden” |
Landscaping and Gardening Ideas
Companion Plants
Philodendron verrucosum is an exciting and highly sought-after plant. Luckily, like most houseplants, these plants are pretty durable and will pair nicely together with other plants. Philodendron verrucosum plants should be grown among other Araceae family members because they all require the same level of care.
Philodendrons go well with other tropical plants. Consider using bird of paradise, areca palms, fire spike, heliconia, variegated arboricola, croton, chenille plant, and pentas to plant along with Verrucosum. The colors of these plants, mainly warm oranges and reds, will complement the foliage color of Verrucosum perfectly.
Landscaping Ideas
Medium-sized Philodendrons go well as accents inside a humid room or a cozy deck or patio. An entire plant can also be placed in the corner of the house or along the entryway. Outdoors, it can be a filler plant for a garden corner, in between palm trunks, or under tall trees. It can also be placed near pools to add even more tropical vibes as long as it won’t get splashed.
| What to plant with | Bird of Paradise, Areca Palms, Fire Spike, Heliconia, Variegated Arboricola, Croton, Chenille Plant, Pentas |
| What NOT to plant with | Basically nothing |
Conclusion
Philodendron verrucosum, also known as Ecuador Philodendron or the Velvet-leaf Philodendron, is a stunning plant with velvety, dark-green leaves with dazzling, light green veining. High humidity, strong indirect light, and moderate temperatures are optimal conditions for this plant.
Verrucosum is a hemiepiphyte, which means it must grow on other trees for at least part of its existence. However, when grown indoors, a pole would help the plant’s climbing needs. The Philodendron verrucosum is definitely a gorgeous climbing pot plant and one of the most attractive philodendron species. Plus, Philodendron verrucosum plant care is pretty easy!
FAQS
- Is Philodendron verrucosum rare?
The Philodendron verrucosum is somewhat a rare plant nowadays. Therefore, finding a Verrucosum plant locally could be tricky, even though many varieties are already available. However, it has been slightly more common since its discovery due to public demand.
- Is Philodendron verrucosum easy to care for?
Philodendron verrucosum is not the easiest Philodendron to care for. It could be fussy if there are slight changes in the environmental conditions. However, the care for this plant is pretty straightforward and could get easier as time goes by. Even beginners can try to take hold of this plant.
- Is Philodendron verrucosum a climbing plant?
Yes, the Verrucosum plant is a hemiepiphyte, meaning it can climb trees or poles. They enjoy climbing, so make sure that you have plenty of room for them to do so.
- How do you root Verrucosum cuttings?
It is easy to root Verrucosum cutting. The cuttings can be wrapped around sphagnum moss to facilitate root development. More so, they can be directly put into a proper potting mix with perlite and coco fiber. Ensure that they are not placed directly into the sun, and adequate care and attention are given while they root.
- Why are my Philodendron leaves curling?
Leaf curling could be a sign of many underlying problems. It could be improper watering, nutrient deficiency, or even insect infestation. To know what causes the curling, check the surface for insects. If there are none, observe your watering and fertilization schedule. Then, make sure to adequately water them and feed them with high-quality fertilizers.
Editor’s Recommendations
Do you want to share some more tips on how to take care of Philodendron verrucosum? Share it with us in the comment section below. Also, make sure to read our other articles:
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The majority of people who have no interest in the subject, and aren’t green fingered assume that all plants and vegetables require the same growing conditions. This is not the case at all. Each plant has its own unique and interesting history and growing process.
I hope you will find The Natural List useful, and that it will help educate you on the wide variety of different flower and plant species there are across the globe.
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