Imbe Philodendron

Imbe Philodendron (Philodendron 'Imbe') is a fast-growing tropical climber from South America with glossy, tapering heart-shaped leaves up to 60cm long. Given a wall, tree trunk or moss pole, it can climb 5m or more in a warm, humid garden, and it stays far smaller in a pot indoors. It is a bold foliage plant that fills space quickly.

Why you'll love it

• Huge glossy leaves. The long, tapering leaves hang down in layers, and mature ones develop rippled edges and strong veins.
• A vigorous climber. Aerial roots grip a trunk or wall and also search for moisture, so the plant anchors itself as it climbs.
• Indoors or out. It grows in frost free tropical gardens, on sheltered patios and as a big indoor pot plant.
• A wall of green. Trained up a support, the hanging leaves cover their own stems and give you lush tropical cover quickly.
• Simple routine. Regular watering and a monthly diluted feed through the warm months are enough to keep it lush.

Where it works best

Tropical gardens. Plant at the foot of a tree trunk, a wall or a post in a sheltered, partly shaded spot. Allow about 1m between plants if you are covering a long wall or trellis.

Borders and underplanting. In frost free gardens it works under taller trees, where it enjoys the dappled light and shelter from wind.

Indoor pots. Use a large pot with a moss pole in a bright, warm room out of direct sun. Indoor plants are naturally much smaller than garden ones.

Growing Imbe Philodendron in Australia

Position and climate. A partly shaded position, out of direct sun. It wants warm temperatures, high humidity and shelter from cold and wind, so it suits tropical and subtropical gardens. Keep it above about 12C. Elsewhere, treat it as an indoor plant or a patio plant that comes inside for winter.

Soil. Free draining soil rich in organic matter, or a potting mix with plenty of humus. Do not let the roots sit in water.

Water and feed. Water regularly for the first 12 weeks, then when the soil surface feels dry, with less in winter. Mist in dry spots or indoors. Feed monthly from spring to autumn with a diluted foliage fertiliser.

Pruning. Give it a wall, trunk or moss pole to climb and tie in new growth gently. Trim to size as needed, and wear gloves because the sap can irritate skin. Dust the leaves occasionally with a damp cloth.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Imbe Philodendron as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly, in 140mm pots in packs of 10 and in 200mm pots in packs of 6. The tube is a small starter, and the larger pots arrive with more leaf. Pot it on or plant it out beside a support soon after arrival.

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 climbing plants
• Indoor exotic plants guide

Common questions

Is it safe for pets and children?

No. Philodendrons are toxic if chewed and the sap can irritate skin. Keep the plant away from pets and small children, and wash your hands after handling it.

How big will it get?

Outdoors in a warm, humid garden with a support, it can reach 5m or more. Kept in a pot indoors, it stays far shorter.

Does it need something to climb?

It does best with one. A wall, tree trunk or moss pole lets the aerial roots grip, and the plant grows upright instead of sprawling.