Philodendron hederaceum var. oxycardium 'Lime' (Neon) – Vivid Color for Your Urban Jungle
Philodendron hederaceum var. oxycardium 'Lime' – often called 'Neon' – dazzles with its brilliant lime-green, heart-shaped leaves. Unlike standard green Philodendrons, this luminous cultivar keeps its electric glow from juvenile to mature stages, adding a vibrant statement to shelves, hanging baskets, or climbing displays.
Why Philodendron 'Lime' Belongs in Your Collection
- Neon Brightness: Leaves stay vivid and striking across all growth stages.
- Versatile Growth: Trails beautifully or climbs with a moss pole or trellis.
- Low-Maintenance: Fast-growing, adaptable, and forgiving, even for beginners.
Natural Origins and Growth Facts
- Native Region: Tropical lowland rainforests from Mexico to Ecuador.
- Growth Form: Primary hemiepiphyte – climbs trees naturally or trails elegantly.
- Indoor Size: Vines can reach up to 3 m with a spread of 50–70 cm.
- Toxicity: Contains calcium oxalate crystals; toxic if ingested.
- Lifespan: Extremely long-lived with minimal maintenance.
Care Guide for Philodendron hederaceum 'Lime'
- Light Requirements: Thrives in bright, indirect light; tolerates moderate indoor lighting.
- Watering Routine: Allow the top 3–5 cm of soil to dry before watering. Ensure excellent drainage to avoid rot.
- Humidity Preferences: Tolerates average humidity but thrives with 50–70% for lush growth. Use a humidifier if necessary.
- Temperature Range: Ideal between 18–27 °C. Protect from drafts and cold air.
- Best Soil Mix: Choose an airy blend of organic matter, perlite, and bark for quick drainage and healthy roots.
- Repotting Needs: Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the container. Always use pots with drainage holes.
- Fertilizing: Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Propagation Tips: Propagate easily via stem cuttings rooted in water or directly in moist soil under bright, indirect light.
Common Problems and Easy Fixes
- Yellowing Leaves: Often due to overwatering. Let soil dry adequately between waterings.
- Browning Tips: Linked to low humidity or salt buildup. Use filtered water and boost humidity if needed.
- Pests: Check regularly for spider mites, thrips, or fungus gnats. Treat with insecticidal soap first; escalate to neem oil only if needed.
- Leggy Growth: Caused by low light. Move to a brighter spot or use supplemental grow lights.
- Root Rot: Result of poor drainage. Always use an airy substrate and drain excess water.
Additional Growing Insights
Philodendron hederaceum 'Lime' can trail gracefully from hanging baskets or climb vertically with a moss pole. Giving it vertical support promotes larger, more heart-shaped foliage and a bushier appearance. Regularly wiping the leaves enhances their bright color and supports healthy growth.
The Story Behind the Name
- Genus: 'Philodendron' means "tree lover," highlighting its natural climbing tendency.
- Species: 'Hederaceum' refers to its ivy-like trailing habit.
- Variety: 'Oxycardium' describes the sharp, heart-shaped form of the leaves.
- Cultivar: 'Lime' captures the intense neon-lime hue of the foliage.
Answers to Common Questions
- Can Philodendron 'Lime' grow in low light? Yes, but expect slower growth and slightly duller leaf color.
- How can I encourage climbing? Offer a moss pole or trellis; the plant will naturally attach over time.
- What sets 'Lime' apart from other Philodendrons? Its intensely vivid neon-green leaves distinguish it from darker cultivars.
Order Your Philodendron hederaceum 'Lime' Today
Add a burst of vibrant neon green to your plant collection with Philodendron hederaceum 'Lime'. Order now and brighten up your space effortlessly!
Philodendron hederaceum ‘Lime’ ('Neon')
Philodendron hederaceum 'Lime' aka 'Neon' comes in following sizes:
Baby Plant – is approximately 15 cm tall/ long, and comes in a ⌀ 6 cm pot
S – is approximately 25 cm long/tall, and comes in a ⌀ 12 cm pot
M – is approximately 30 cm long, and comes in a ⌀ 17 cm pot