This article is about the large vine native to Brazil. For the common houseplant, see Philodendron hederaceum.

Philodendron cordatum is an uncommon, toxic species not often found or offered as a houseplant. It is native to a small region in Southeastern coastal Brazil, not far from Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.[1] It is an epiphytic and epilithic species of Philodendron (growing upon trees or rock outcroppings). This philodendron is typically a vining plant and can tolerate shade.[2] It is toxic to humans and most animals if consumed. The toxic principle is calcium oxalate.[3] It has heart-shaped, dark green leaves that generally grow 2″ to 3” across with white speckles on the more mature leaves. This species can easily be propagated by stem cutting by using water, soil, or sphagnum moss as a growing medium.

This name is often mistakenly applied to the popular houseplant Philodendron hederaceum, the ivy Philodendron. While "cordatum" means heart-shaped and both species have heart-shaped leaves the species name cannot be applied to the ivy Philodendron.

References

  1. ^ Deardorff, David; Wadsworth, Kathryn (2016-02-04). What's Wrong With My Houseplant?: Save Your Indoor Plants With 100% Organic Solutions. Timber Press. p. 125. ISBN 9781604697360.
  2. ^ Peerless, Veronica (2017-08-15). How Not to Kill Your Houseplant: Survival Tips for the Horticulturally Challenged. Penguin. p. 63. ISBN 9781465469809.
  3. ^ "Heartleaf Philodendron". Pet Care, Animal Poison Control, Toxic And Non-Toxic Plants. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Retrieved December 4, 2021.

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