Horsehead Philodendron

Horsehead Philodendron (Philodendron panduriforme) is an evergreen climber native to tropical South America. Its young leaves are long and smooth, and they become distinctively lobed as the plant matures. On a support it reaches 1.5 to 3m high and 60 to 90cm wide. It is a striking foliage plant for a bright indoor corner or a shady tropical garden.

Why you'll love it

• Sculptural leaves. Young leaves are long and smooth, then develop curving lobes as they mature. The species name, panduriforme, means fiddle shaped.
• Tall and slim. At 60 to 90cm wide it fits a corner, a narrow bed or a pot beside a window.
• Self-anchoring. Aerial roots grip a pole, trellis or tree trunk, and help the plant take up moisture.
• Indoors or out. Grow it in a bright room, a protected patio or a shaded subtropical or tropical garden.
• Low fuss feeding. A yearly slow release fertiliser is enough to support healthy growth.

Where it works best

Indoor feature plants. Pot it in a large container with a moss pole in a bright room away from direct sun. Indoor plants stay shorter than garden plants.

Shady tropical borders. In a subtropical or tropical garden, plant it in a full shade position beside a trunk or wall. Allow about 1m between plants if you are covering a long surface.

Protected patios. In cooler climates keep it in a pot on a well lit, protected patio, and bring it inside before frost.

Growing Horsehead Philodendron in Australia

Position and climate. Grow it indoors, or outdoors in deep shade in a subtropical or tropical garden. Inside, give it bright, filtered light. Warm climates suit it best, and in cooler ones it needs a well lit, sheltered position. Protect it from frost.

Soil. Give it a free draining mix with plenty of humus and organic matter. Keep the roots moist but never waterlogged.

Water and feed. Mulch and water regularly for the first 12 weeks, mist the leaves in dry air, and apply a slow release fertiliser once a year to keep growth healthy.

Pruning. When the plant begins producing extra leaves, give it a moss pole, trellis or trunk, and tie it in gently. The sap irritates skin, so wear gloves when pruning.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Horsehead Philodendron as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. It arrives as a small plant with simple, smooth leaves, and the lobed shape develops as it grows. Pot it up or plant it out soon after delivery, and give it a support once it begins to climb.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Philodendron care guide
• Browse the philodendron range
• More indoor plants for the home
• Tropical plants for shaded gardens

Common questions

Why do the leaves change shape?

Young leaves are long and simple, and they become lobed as the plant matures. A well supported plant in bright, filtered light develops the full shape sooner.

Does it need a pole?

Yes, eventually. Once the plant starts to produce extra leaves, a moss pole, trellis or trunk keeps it upright and lets the aerial roots grip.

Is it safe for pets?

No. Every part of a philodendron is toxic if chewed, and the sap irritates skin. Keep it away from pets and children, and wash your hands after you handle it.