How to Care for a Philodendron Brasil Plant

 

 The Philodendron Brasil is an attention-grabbing plant with leaves that reflect the colors of the Brazilian flag, one of its native homes. This tropical plant requires regular care and rewards you with tolerance and easy growth under proper care. 

 

Maintenance: Easy | Climate: Warm + Humid | Light: Bright + Indirect | Watering: Consistent | Pet Safe: No

 

CHARACTERISTICS

The Philodendron Brasil grows long vines with heart-shaped leaves. Showing off deep green leaves with a lime-colored separation, each one grows uniquely on its own. Leaf size ranges from petite to large, depending on lighting and nutrients. Once mature, the long vines will trail, climb, or hang, creating the ultimate jungle feel.   

 

LIGHT

While the Philodendron Brasil is adaptable to all light levels, bright light is preferred to maintain the leaf pattern and vibrancy. Keep your plant out of direct sunlight to avoid leaf burn. Lower light levels will produce duller leaves. 

 

WATER

This plant prefers slightly moist soil and should be watered when the top 2-3 inches have dried. Water generously, allowing all excess to drain out. Reduce frequency during fall and winter.

 

AIR

Create a tropical environment by maintaining warm temperatures and offering your Philodendron an extra boost of humidity. Keep it away from drafts and cold air.

 

Boost humidity in its environment through:

• Misting 3-5x per week
• Adding a humidifier nearby
• Placing a pebble tray underneath the pot
• Keeping it in a bathroom or kitchen with proper lighting

 

PLACEMENT

Philodendrons symbolize health and abundance. This fast-growing plant is a powerhouse in nature, quickly growing up canopies in the rainforest and long vines in our homes. While meeting its environmental needs, consider placing it in your bedroom, kitchen, or wherever you make space for movement and meditation to channel this intention.

 

POTTING & SOIL

After its first 1-2 repottings with you, repot every 1-3 years after, depending on how fast it grows. Increase planter size by no more than two inches each time. A ceramic planter with a drainage hole is ideal for maintaining moisture balance for the Philodendron. 

 

Ideal soil will retain moisture without becoming wet and soggy. Combine high-quality potting mix with amendments, such as perlite and coco coir that keep the Brasil happy.  

 

SEASONAL CARE TIPS

 

• Reduce the watering frequency through fall and winter while the plant rests and uses less water. 

• If on a windowsill, move it a few feet away to avoid cold drafts during the winter. 

• At the start of Spring, gradually increase your watering frequency again and fertilize every four weeks. 

• Do not fertilize for at least six weeks after it has been repotted. 

• Prune in early spring and early fall for optimal growth. 

 

PRUNING & PROPAGATION

The Philodendron can be lightly pruned throughout the year. To prune a Philodendron stem, use a clean pair of scissors or shears to cut right below a node (brown stumps that grow along the stem). 

 

Stem cuttings can be propagated when they are healthy, at least a few inches long, and contain healthy leaves. Place the cutting into a glass of clean water and remove any submerged leaves. Refresh the water weekly and transport it into soil when roots have grown 3+ inches.

 

COMMON ISSUES

These plants are pretty forgiving, though they are capable of running into some issues. Nothing a little troubleshooting and care can’t fix. Always start by removing damaged leaves or stems and assessing your care routine in comparison to the needs of the plant.  

 

BROWN LEAVES

Brown leaves or spots on a Philodendron can be a result of underwatering, lack of humidity, lighting that is too harsh, or water quality. 

 

YELLOW LEAVES

Yellow leaves on a Philodendron Brasil are most commonly from overwatering. You might also see this when it has experienced a shock from temperature change, being transported, or under poor lighting. Old leaves naturally yellow off as the plant continues to grow.

 

LIMP, DROOPY LEAVES

Leaves will go limp in response to underwatering, root rot, pest infestations, cold temperatures, lack of nutrients, or being root-bound. Start with checking the soil moisture using your finger to eliminate other causes.