Why Rare Philodendrons Are Worth the Hype
If you've been scrolling through plant communities online, you've probably noticed that Philodendrons are having a serious moment — and for good reason. These tropical beauties from the Araceae family are not only visually stunning but also surprisingly adaptable to indoor conditions, even in India's varied climate. Whether you're in humid Kerala or drier parts of the country, rare Philodendrons can thrive with the right care.
At GROMEE, we're passionate about bringing the rarest and most beautiful tropical plants to plant lovers across India. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to care for some of the most sought-after Philodendron varieties.
Meet the Stars: Popular Rare Philodendron Varieties
Philodendron Melanochrysum — Often called the 'Black Gold Philodendron', this vining beauty features large, velvety, dark green leaves with golden veins that shimmer in the light. It's one of the most coveted rare Philodendrons in the world. Shop Philodendron Melanochrysum →
Philodendron Sharoniae — Known for its dramatically ruffled, elongated leaves, the Sharoniae is a true showstopper. It's a climbing variety that rewards you with increasingly impressive foliage as it matures. Shop Philodendron Sharoniae →
Philodendron Rugosum 'Aberrant Form' — With its uniquely textured, pig-skin-like leaves, this rare variety is unlike anything else in the plant world. A true collector's gem. Shop Philodendron Rugosum →
Light Requirements
Rare Philodendrons thrive in bright, indirect light. In India, avoid placing them in direct afternoon sun, which can scorch their delicate leaves. An east-facing window or a spot a few feet from a west-facing window works beautifully. If your home doesn't get much natural light, a grow light for 10–12 hours a day will do the trick.
Pro tip for Kerala homes: The filtered light through a sheer curtain near a window is often perfect for Philodendrons during the summer months.
Watering: Less Is More
One of the most common mistakes new plant parents make is overwatering. Philodendrons prefer to dry out slightly between waterings. Here's a simple rule: water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch.
- During summer (March–June): Water every 5–7 days
- During monsoon (June–September): Reduce watering significantly — the humidity does a lot of the work
- During winter (November–February): Water every 10–14 days
Always use water that has been left out overnight to allow chlorine to dissipate, or use filtered water if possible.
Humidity: The Secret to Lush Growth
Being tropical plants, Philodendrons love humidity — ideally between 60–80%. The good news? If you're in Kerala or coastal India, your natural humidity levels are already quite favourable. For those in drier regions, consider:
- Grouping plants together to create a microclimate
- Using a pebble tray filled with water beneath the pot
- Running a humidifier nearby
- Misting the leaves lightly in the morning
Soil and Potting Mix
Rare Philodendrons need a well-draining, airy potting mix. A good mix includes:
- 40% coco peat or peat moss
- 30% perlite or coarse sand
- 20% compost or worm castings
- 10% orchid bark or chunky material
This ensures the roots get plenty of oxygen while retaining just enough moisture. Avoid heavy garden soil, which can compact and cause root rot.
Fertilising Your Philodendron
Feed your Philodendron with a balanced liquid fertiliser (NPK 20-20-20) diluted to half strength, once every 2–3 weeks during the growing season (March to October). Avoid fertilising during winter when growth slows down.
Common Problems and Solutions
Yellow leaves: Usually a sign of overwatering. Let the soil dry out more between waterings.
Brown leaf tips: Often caused by low humidity or fluoride in tap water. Increase humidity and switch to filtered water.
Leggy growth: Your plant needs more light. Move it closer to a bright window.
Pests: Watch out for spider mites and mealybugs, especially during dry seasons. Wipe leaves with a neem oil solution every 2–3 weeks as a preventive measure.
Ready to Start Your Philodendron Collection?
Rare Philodendrons are a rewarding investment for any plant enthusiast. With the right care, they grow into magnificent specimens that transform any space. Explore our curated collection of rare Philodendrons at GROMEE and find your next green obsession.
Happy growing from Gromee! 🌿