To the indoor gardener who is a lover of plants or even an admirer and enthusiast to gain rare species, Philodendron Melanochrysum would definitely be wishing for. The glossy dark green leaves of this large-leaf philodendron add a touch of luxury/exotic elegance to any living space.
Philodendron Melanochrysum is now one of the rarest and most wanted aroids because of its beautiful climbing habit that bears stunning leaves.
Although this plant is fairly simple to take care of, it does have certain needs that must be met for its proper growth and development indoors.
Anyway, This guide digs deep into our Philodendron Melanochrysum complete care instructions, including where this plant hails from and some interesting tidbits that separate it from your typical houseplant.
Philodendron Melanochrysum
Philodendron Melanochrysum, these glistening leaves give it its common name, Black Gold Philodendron and are found in Colombia and Peru native only to the tropical rainforest family. Valued for its heart shaped, velvety leaves which can attain lengths of over two feet if properly cared for.
So, the leaves are born a light, almost golden green color appear to be rather dark green with white veins when older. If that was not enough its climbing habit and showy foliage makes it a must have for the plant collector looking something wild and new to add perspective and form into their collection. It is known for being mostly resilient but they do need a fair amount of care to bring out its majestic best.
Why Philodendron Melanochrysum are all the rage?
The popularity of Philodendron Melanochrysum in the houseplant world is due to a few things. Let’s know!
Beautiful Foliage: The leaves of the plant are really fascinating to look at. With its velvety feel and deep, shiny green color it has a lavish high-end vibe that makes any plant collection complete.
Giant leaf-size: Well-cared for, this plant can achieve gigantic leaves which means those in need of a show-stopping beauty or statement-maker might just find their match here.
Growth Habit: A vining plant, philodendron can climb if given a support of pole or trellis.
Where It Grows: The Melanochrysum is fairly friendly despite its odd appearance, so long as you get the basic tropical conditions down pat.
Philodendron Melanochrysum Care Guide
While not a super fussy plant, there is some Philodendron Melanochrysum care tips which we will cover within this guide.
1. Light Requirements
Philodendron Melanochrysum loves bright indirect light. Plant is actually best situated near a window that has been filtered for full light as direct sun will scorch the thin leaves causing them to crisp and turn brown/yellow. The plant will be lettuce that has not flourished, but grown very slowly and the leaves may never develop their full size or brilliant color for which they are famous.
They are best located near an east-facing window or two to three feet away from a sunny south- facing exposure but are filtered.
2. Watering Needs
Philodendron Melanochrysum Watering the pothos want is every other watering or so, while it likes its soil to be kept moist an no waterlogged. The general rule is to water when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry.
It is also important to use good well-draining potting mix as the roots of this plant do not like sitting in water. One of the few ways to seriously injure this typically robust plant is root rot, frequently caused by overwatering.
3. Humidity and Temperature
Philodendron Melanochrysum loves high humidity since it is a tropical plant. During the winter, you can help maintain the proper level of humidity if possible by misting your plants and using a humidifier in your home. You can also set the plant on a humidity tray.
This philodendron prefers a temperature of 65°F to 80°F. Allow to winter indoors away from extremes air conditioning, and forced air heating.
4. Soil and Fertilizing
Philodendron Melanochrysum prefers a well-draining soil medium that allows some moisture retention without becoming soggy. An orchid bark, peat moss or coco coir with perlite mix will helps roots to breathe easy and keeps sufficient humidity.
Throughout the growing season feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks. Over-fertilizing can cause salts to build up in the soil, which will injure your plant. Because the plant slows down its growth in fall and winter, either stop or decrease fertilization.
5. Climbing and Support
With its originating as a climber, giving your Philodendron Melanochrysum enough space to climb up on a trellis or moss pole will encourage it to grow taller and have bigger leaves. As the plant climbs, over time its leaves can grow quite large both in size and color.
How to propagate Philodendron Melanochrysum?
Melanochrysum can be propagated by stem cutting as like many philodendrons. Here’s how to do it:
- Take a Cutting choose a Healthy Stem using good sharp scissors or pruning shears, make a nice clean cut right below the node.
- To propagate this plant, you could place the cutting into a water jar and watch out for new root formation. If rooting in water, be sure to change the water every couple of days as it can get stagnant. If rooting in soil, place the pot somewhere that is humid and warm, give it a regular mist.
- When the cutting has Established Strong Roots, transplant it in a larger container using right potting mix.
- Propagating your Philodendron is always a fun and rewarding task as it generally means you get to grow more plants that you can keep or share the love with.
What You Should Know Philodendron Melanochrysum?
Philodendron Melanochrysum is not just another pretty plant. So far, some of the few key highlights that differentiate it from rest are:
A Description of the Name Melanochrysum comes from the Greek melano and chrysos, which refers to its dark, velvety shining leaves with a hint of gold. The leaves have a shine of metallic when light hits hence being called Black Gold Philodendron.
Slowest Grower: As far as philodendrons go, this Melanochrysum is a slower grower. The plant takes its own sweet time to flourish, but the wait is worth it because once mature those lush deep velvet-like dark green leaves make a bold statement.
Philodendrons are one of the first plants to ever be studied in Space: Philodendron melanochrysum is not a species, but philodendrons have LONG been involved with plant research up in space!
The space agency has looked at different types of philodendrons as ways to filter the air and conserve human life in controlled settings like a space station.
Live for Decades: Philodendron Melanochrysum plant, when taken care of properly can live for well over decades and will keep growing producing more attractive wet foliage around.
Common Issues and Solutions
Although they are generally of no-fuss plants, Philodendron Melanochrysum may come across a few common problems.
Leaves Turning Yellow: This problem is definitely an impact of overwatering. Keep a watch on the soil moisture and water as required.
Brown Leaf Tips: Leaves with brown tips are generally an indication of insufficient humidity. Mist around the plant, or set up a humidifier to increase ambient humidity.
Pests: Spider mites, aphids and mealybugs are common when growing Philodendron Melanochrysum just like many other houseplants. Check for pests on the foliage and treat them as necessary with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Conclusion
The Philodendron Melanochrysum. It is an Exotic, Aesthetic Plant For Your Indoor Garden The big, plushy dark green leaves of Fiddle Leaf Fig are the real show-stopping features and with proper care. This plant can live for many years!
As a long-term plant parent or if you are new and eager to grow take this challenging one, Philodendron Melanochrysum got your back. This stunning plant with its fabulous trailing foliage makes a statement in your house due to the ease of care and ability to climb. Now, as you have read, it is not only a lot more than what we see with our eyes but know that succulent plants are delightful to care for.
