Philodendron Gloriosum Zebra – Rare

Plant Size: Single plant | Free Shipping | 4” Pot Included

Philodendron Gloriosum Zebra is a stunning and relatively easy-to-care-for houseplant, prized for its large, heart-shaped, velvety dark green leaves with striking silvery-white stripes resembling a zebra pattern.

Here’s a guide to Philodendron Gloriosum Zebra care:

Light:

• Prefers bright, indirect light for at least 8 hours a day. An east or west-facing window with filtered light is ideal.
• Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
• Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and smaller leaves.

Water:

• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Water thoroughly when the top inch (2-3 cm) of the soil feels slightly dry.
• Ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent root rot.
• Reduce watering frequency in the winter months.
• Avoid misting the leaves as it can potentially cause damage or lead to issues if water sits on the foliage. If you need to clean the leaves, gently wipe them with a damp cloth.

Humidity:

• Prefers high humidity levels (60-80%), similar to its native tropical rainforests.
• Can tolerate average indoor humidity (40-60%), but may benefit from increased humidity, especially in dry conditions.
• You can increase humidity by using a humidifier, placing the pot on a pebble tray with water, or grouping plants together.

Soil:

• Requires a well-draining, airy potting mix that retains some moisture.
• An aroid mix is ideal. You can create your own by combining:
  • 1 part houseplant potting soil
  • 1 part perlite or pumice
  • 1 part orchid bark or pine bark
• Some also recommend adding horticultural charcoal to improve drainage, aeration, and soil health.
• The ideal soil pH is between 6.5 and 7.5.

Temperature:

• Prefers warm temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C) during the day and 60-70°F (15-21°C) at night.
• Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations and cold drafts.

Fertilizer:

• Feed with a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
• Reduce or stop fertilizing during the fall and winter months when growth slows down.
• Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to root burn.

Potting and Repotting:

• Given its crawling growth habit, a wide, shallow pot is often preferred over a deep one. Ensure the pot has drainage holes.
• Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, showing signs like slowed growth or roots emerging from the drainage holes. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one.
• When potting, ensure the rhizome (the horizontal stem from which leaves emerge) is not buried completely; the upper half should remain exposed to prevent rot.

Pruning:

• Prune any yellow, brown, or damaged leaves with clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
• You can also prune to manage its size if it becomes too large.

Propagation:

• Primarily propagated by rhizome cuttings.
• Cut a section of the rhizome with at least one or two leaves and roots. Allow the cut end to callous over for a few hours.
• Plant the cutting in moist sphagnum moss or a well-draining potting mix. Maintain humidity (e.g., by covering with a plastic bag) until roots establish.
• Stem cuttings can also be rooted in water or moist sphagnum moss.

Philodendron Gloriosum Zebra Common Problems:

• Root rot: Caused by overwatering and poor drainage. Ensure proper watering habits and well-draining soil.
• Yellowing leaves: Can be due to overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or too much direct sunlight.
• Brown or crispy leaf edges: Often a sign of low humidity or inconsistent watering.
• Drooping leaves: Can be caused by improper watering (too much or too little) or insufficient light.
• Pests: Watch out for common houseplant pests like spider mites and aphids. Treat with neem oil or an appropriate insecticide if necessary.

By providing the right conditions and care, your Philodendron Gloriosum Zebra will thrive and reward you with its stunning foliage.