Philodendron davidsonii

Philodendron davidsonii Care Guide

Updated 2026-04-27by Funfactorium Editorial1 min read

Davidson's Philodendron (Philodendron davidsonii)
Photo: Photo by David J. Stang · CC BY-SA 4.0

Summary

Philodendron davidsonii is a beautiful tropical plant known for its unique leaf shape. This guide will walk you through the essential care steps to ensure your plant flourishes indoors. Discover its light, water, and soil needs to create the perfect environment.

Care facts

Care requirements for Philodendron davidsonii
Lightbright-indirect
WaterWater when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
Humidity50-70%
Temperature18-24°C
SoilUse a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark.
ToxicityHumans: Contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation if ingested.Pets: Toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion can cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

Overview

Philodendron davidsonii is an attractive aroid with deeply lobed leaves that resemble a fiddle-leaf fig. It's a climbing or trailing plant that can add a tropical flair to any indoor space. Native to Ecuador, it thrives in warm, humid conditions.

Care Priorities

Provide bright, indirect light to encourage healthy growth without scorching the leaves. Maintain consistent moisture in the soil, allowing it to dry slightly between waterings. High humidity is crucial for this tropical plant, so consider misting or using a humidifier.

Common Problems

Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Brown, crispy leaf edges often suggest low humidity or inconsistent watering. Pests like spider mites and mealybugs can also be an issue if not managed promptly.

Plant profile

Origin

Native to the rainforests of Ecuador.

Mature size

Up to 2-3 feet tall and wide indoors.

Growth rate

Moderate

Fertilizer

Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).

Propagation

stem-cutting, air-layering

Common names

Davidson's Philodendron

Common issues

Pests

Spider mites, Mealybugs, Aphids

Diseases

Root rot, Leaf spot

Frequently asked questions

What kind of light does Philodendron davidsonii need?

It prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves.

How often should I water my Philodendron davidsonii?

Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Allow excess water to drain away completely.

Why are the leaves on my Philodendron davidsonii turning yellow?

Yellow leaves are often a sign of overwatering or insufficient light. Check your watering schedule and ensure it's getting enough bright, indirect light.

Can I propagate Philodendron davidsonii?

Yes, you can propagate it through stem cuttings or air layering. Take cuttings with at least one leaf and a node, and root them in water or moist soil.

Sources