
Philodendron gigas is among the largest climbing plants in the world, capable of reaching heights of up to 20 meters. Native to the tropical rainforests of Panama, this stunning plant thrives in its natural habitat.
The plant’s foliage is truly remarkable. When young, the leaves are copper-toned with white veins, but as they mature, they transition into a dark, velvety evergreen color with yellow and brown speckles. The veins lighten to a soft green, while the leaves retain a red or copper sheen, adding to their beauty and appeal.
Philodendron gigas is highly sought after due to its impressive size and unique tri-colored foliage, similar to other popular varieties like Philodendron melanochrysum.
where the name come from?
The name “Philodendron” is derived from the Greek words “philo” (love or affection) and “dendron” (tree), giving it the nickname “tree hugger,” as it often climbs trees in the wild.
The species name “gigas” is a Greek term meaning “giant,” a reference to the plant’s immense size.
Does philodendron gigas flower?
Philodendron gigas produces a unique inflorescence called a spadix, which features a leaf-like spathe and a spadix resembling that of an anthurium. Its flowering season is influenced by environmental conditions and location. Typically during rainy seasons and lasting for several months. However, like many houseplants, it rarely blooms indoors.
How big it can grow?
Philodendron gigas is a fast grower under optimal conditions, including proper temperature and humidity. In its natural habitat, it can reach 20 meters in height, with leaves extending 2–4 feet in length. However, when cultivated indoors, its size is significantly reduced.
As a climbing plant, Philodendron gigas grows vertically rather than horizontally. To support its growth, providing a moss or coir pole is highly recommended.
Philodendron Gigas Overview
Scientific Name | Philodendron gigas |
---|---|
Common Name(s) | Gigas, Giant Philodendron |
Family | Araceae |
Growth Habit | Herbaceous, Vine |
Height and Spread | Up to 20 meters tall, leaves 2–4 feet (wild) |
Life Cycle Classification | Perennial |
Origin and Distribution | Panama |
Climate Zone | Generally mild climates |
USDA Hardiness Zone | USDA Zones 9–11 |
Color | Velvety dark green leaves with brown and yellow speckles, light-green venation, and a red/copper glow |
choose the best light
The Gigas Philodendron thrives in moderately bright lighting conditions, ideally with 70–85% filtered light, whether natural or artificial, to support optimal growth. Unlike many other Philodendron species, it is more adaptable to lower light environments.
Lighting conditions significantly influence the plant’s growth pattern. In low light, the Philodendron may develop a leggy appearance with smaller leaves. However, it is crucial to avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch its foliage.
Sunlight is a vital factor in houseplant growth, as it enables photosynthesis, the process that fuels growth and sustains the plant. However, it’s not just the presence of sunlight that matters—its intensity and duration are equally important.
To promote healthy growth and maintain a thriving plant, it’s best to mimic the lighting conditions of its natural habitat. In the tropical forests of Panama, Philodendron gigas grows beneath tree canopies, receiving dappled sunlight while climbing toward brighter areas above the forest floor.
Indoors, the closest equivalent to their natural lighting is bright, indirect light. This can be achieved by placing the plant near east-, south-, or west-facing windows, while keeping it out of direct sunlight. Thanks to their adaptability, these plants can also tolerate lower light conditions reasonably well.
For optimal growth, an east-facing window is ideal, as it provides gentle morning light while shielding the plant from direct sunlight for most of the day. Alternatively, you can use a sheer curtain to diffuse brighter light and create suitable conditions. Avoid exposing the plant to harsh direct sunlight, which can scorch its delicate leaves, or excessively low light, which can hinder its growth.
Must read: the best humidifier for philodendron
How to water philodendron Gigas
Proper watering is essential for healthy plants, but with adequate drainage in the pot and soil, it’s not something you’ll need to worry about too often. Philodendron gigas is relatively low-maintenance, provided you follow a few simple guidelines.
Water the plant when the top inch or two of soil feels dry, adjusting for the plant’s size. Larger plants in bigger pots may require less frequent watering as they retain moisture longer.
To avoid guesswork, check the soil with your finger every few days. This method helps you water only when needed, adapting to changes in environmental conditions. Relying on a fixed watering schedule can lead to overwatering or underwatering, as it doesn’t account for fluctuations in moisture levels.
Fortunately, these plants are forgiving, and an occasional missed watering or slight overwatering won’t cause lasting harm. They recover quickly from minor inconsistencies. However, prolonged issues can lead to problems such as:
- Wilting
- Yellowing leaves
- Brown leaf edges
- Root rot
For underwatered plants, rehydrating the soil is key. If the soil is extremely dry and compacted, bottom watering until saturation can help. In cases of overwatering, allow the soil to dry out before watering again. If the problem persists, repotting and pruning may be necessary to save the plant.
Must read: how to prune your philodendron
Choose the right soil
The health of your Gigas Philodendron heavily depends on the type of soil used. For optimal growth, choose a rich, fertile soil that is well-draining, airy, and capable of retaining moisture to keep the soil consistently moist. Incorporating a burlap or moss pole will also support the plant’s climbing needs.
Using an improper or inefficient soil mix can lead to numerous issues, so it’s essential to select or create the right blend. A suitable mix for your Gigas can include ingredients like worm castings, orchid bark, horticultural charcoal, sphagnum moss, and perlite. The charcoal helps maintain optimal soil acidity, while sphagnum moss aids in moisture retention.
The ideal soil pH for this plant ranges from 5.6 (slightly acidic) to 7.5 (neutral).
How to fertilize philodendron gigas
Philodendron Gigas is known for its fast growth, especially when provided with the right environmental conditions. During the growing season, these plants consume a significant amount of nutrients, quickly depleting the reserves in their containers.
To support vigorous growth and ensure the development of large leaves and long vines, regular fertilization is essential. Fertilizing replenishes the nutrients that the plant cannot source otherwise, maintaining healthy growth. Without adequate fertilization, the plant’s growth will slow and eventually cease.
Use a balanced houseplant fertilizer with secondary and micronutrients during the growing season for optimal results. Alternatively, a fertilizer slightly higher in nitrogen can promote robust leaf and stem development.
However, be cautious of overfertilizing, as it can cause discoloration and wilting, and the plant may take time to recover. Begin with a low-concentration fertilizer and follow the instructions on the packaging carefully. If overfertilization occurs, flush the soil thoroughly with filtered water to remove excess salts and refrain from fertilizing for several months to allow the plant to recover.
Must read: The best fertilizer for philodendron
When to repot philodendron gigas
Under ideal conditions, Philodendron Gigas grows rapidly, often necessitating frequent repotting. For younger plants, annual repotting—or even sooner if the pot becomes too small—is typically required. Older, more established plants can go a bit longer before needing a new pot.
Keep an eye out for signs that your plant has outgrown its pot. These include slowed or halted growth, roots emerging through drainage holes, or sudden wilting without any changes to your care routine.
When repotting, select a pot about two sizes larger than the current one. This provides adequate space for growth while preventing excess soil from retaining too much moisture. Ensure the new pot also complements the plant’s size and weight for stability and aesthetics. For larger plants in smaller pots, consider using a heavier material, such as ceramic, to prevent tipping.
To repot, carefully remove the plant by squeezing the pot’s sides or running a knife around the edges. Gently loosen the roots to encourage outward growth. Fill the new pot with a suitable potting mix, positioning the plant so the soil line matches its previous level.
After repotting, water thoroughly and return the plant to its original location to minimize transplant shock.
Philodendron Gigas pests and disease
Philodendron Gigas: Pests and Diseases
Common Issues | Symptoms | Treatment and Prevention |
---|---|---|
Diseases: Crown rot, stem rot, root rot, leaf spot, fungal infections, and Xanthomonas infection | Yellowish rims around black or dark brown spots on leaves | Avoid overwatering and maintain proper soil moisture. Ensure adequate ventilation around the plant. Prevent excessive humidity. Remove infected parts to stop the spread of fungal diseases. |
Pests: Mealybugs, spider mites, aphids, and scales | Visible insects on the plant’s surface | Spray the plant with warm, soapy water. For infestations, apply insecticides or neem oil. Use diatomaceous earth as a preventative measure. |
Philodendron Gigas vs. Melanochrysum
These two type of philodendron highly sought-after houseplants, often compared due to their similar appearances. However, there are several distinct differences that set them apart.
One of the most noticeable distinctions between Philodendron Gigas and Melanochrysum is their leaf shape. Gigas features oval-shaped leaves, whereas Melanochrysum showcases heart-shaped foliage. Additionally, juvenile leaves of Melanochrysum have an intriguing orange or copper tint as they develop.
Mature leaves of both plants are dark green, but Philodendron Gigas boasts lighter foliage compared to Melanochrysum. Furthermore, Melanochrysum has velvety leaves with striking silver variegation, whereas Gigas has large leaves with a rich, deep green hue.
In terms of size, Melanochrysum tends to be smaller than Gigas, with a more compact growth habit. Gigas, on the other hand, grows in a more sprawling manner.
Lastly, the stems also differ between the two. Melanochrysum features a thinner stem that grows more upright, while Gigas has a thicker stem, often growing more horizontally.
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