Philodendron Squamiferum Care

Did you know that Philodendron squamiferum is one of the parent species of the rare, crossbreed, evergreen Philodendron Florida ghost that everyone wants to get their hands on? 

Philodendron Squamiferum is a climbing epiphyte, a tropical plant with red stems covered in tiny bristles, which is why it’s called “Red Bristle Philodendrons.”

Philodendron Squamiferum Care Table

Philodendron Squamiferum Care Basics

Ideal Soil Mixture

Philodendrons thrive in an airy, well-draining potting mix for optimal growth instead of compacted soil. A blend of orchid bark, perlite, peat moss, coco coir, and worm castings creates loose yet nutrient-rich conditions.

This soilless combination mimics the natural epiphytic environment that philodendrons are accustomed to in the wild. Achieving proper drainage and aeration encourages healthy roots and lush foliage.

If any of the above is hard to find in your area, use perlite added to your garden soil with other alternatives such as dried bark trees or branches. You might as well purchase a succulent mix and add more dried wood for a more lose mix.

Lighting 

If you treat this hairy philodendron as an indoor plant, place it near a window with sheer curtains. Full spectrum grow light is only a remedy when you don’t have enough light in your home. 

Only allow the right amount of artificial light based on your plant’s needs: bright indirect sunlight.

If you want them growing in your garden, ensure there are nearby trees or bigger plants where they can get shade.

Watering Schedule

Almost all plants need constant soil moisture, except for Philodendron squamiferum. Frequent watering and continuous soil moisture are the final nails of their coffin. Allow the topsoil to be completely dried out before watering again. 

You can stick your index finger down in the mix, and once the soil has dried, that’s your clue. Investing in a moisture meter is also a great way to check for moisture.

Lighter pots and drooping leaves indicate that it’s time for you to feed them.

Overwatering is a kiss of death for the Philodendron squamiferum for it can lead to root rot, allowing fungus gnats to take over. 

Temperature & Humidity

Ideal temperatures are 50-77°F. To recreate the humid environment at home, use a humidifier and group plants together.

Philodendrons cannot tolerate cold temperatures, so bring them inside during the cold season. Also, never place your Philodendron squamiferum near an AC or a fan t will make their leaves droop and dormant.

Fertilizer

Philodendron squamiferum is a slow-growing plant and not a heavy feeder. Farming is unnecessary when grown in a garden with access to rainwater and decomposing plants and leaves around it. However, as in indoor potted plants, liquid organic fertilizer can help aid the growth of healthy and robust stems and roots.

Research by Oregon State University shows overusing chemical fertilizers can harm plants and pollute soil and water due to high concentrations. When possible, choose organic or slow-release fertilizers over conventional types. This protects plants, soil quality, and the environment.

ALWAYS cut the feeding in half a dose IF synthetic fertilizer is the ONLY available feed you can get a hold of.

Propagation

Seed and stem cutting.

Seed propagation is a sure and steady way to grow them, but it takes a long time. Stem cutting is the most common method.

You can propagate new cuttings using distilled or tap water. Once you see new roots coming after 4-6 weeks, you can transfer them into a potting mix. 

Another way to plant your cutting is to directly stick it in a moist pot with sphagnum moss or coco peat, with coco fiber, and add vermicast to the mix for an optimum start. Place the newly potted plant in bright, indirect light and consistently check the soil dampness.

Spring and summer are the best time to propagate this hairy philodendron. 

Growth Zone

Most philodendron species are hardy when grown outdoors in USDA plant hardiness zones 9b to 11. However, they can thrive as houseplants in zones 4 through 11 if brought indoors during the colder months. To determine your zone, refer to the newly updated USDA plant hardiness zone map released in November 2023.

Generally, philodendrons should be moved inside before temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit in your local area. 

Potting and Pruning

Potting can occur after 3-4 years since squamiferum are slow growers. Prune dead and brown leaves, for they can invite pests and disease.

Philodendron Squamiferum Varieties and Similar Plants

Check these philodendron varieties you may already have in your collection.

Philodendron Pedatum

Philodendron pedatum and Philodendron squamiferum are the parent species of Philodendron Florida ghost that collectors and plant enthusiasts are into.

Taking a closer look, they have the same oak-shaped leaves with the same five lobes. Like any other alpha male quality, the biggest leaf ego title goes out to Philodendron pedatum when they mature.

Philodendron Florida Ghost

The princess of all oak-shaped Philodendrons.

This pretty and rare evergreen philodendron is a crossbreed between Philodendron squamiferum and Philodendron pedatum. The bragging rights go to this spoiled crossbreed.

Philodendron Bipennifolium 

Philodendron bipennifolium, the Fiddle Leaf philodendron, is a tropical indoor plant with large, fiddle-shaped leaves.

Philodendron Squamiferum Pests & Troubleshooting

Among other aroids and philodendron plants, this is one of the few species that doesn’t need frequent watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can also invite other pests.

Fungus gnats and root rot

This is caused by overwatering your plant. Poor drainage pots and overwatering can lead to the plant’s roots’ demise. Once the moist soil decomposes, it will be susceptible to bacterial and fungus attacks such as fungus gnats. 

Once you suspect a possible rot, remove the plant from its potting media and wash it with clean water. After washing, spray ample apple cider vinegar to your plant’s roots and transfer it to a new potting mix with EXCELLENT DRAINAGE.

Spider mites

When you’re too careful about watering your squamiferum, which leads to underwatering them, the leaves get dry, leading to brown leaves, which invites spider mites to settle in. Clean the leaves with a damp cloth and check the soil for moisture.