Philodendron grandipes

From Central America to Ecuador: Philodendron grandipes in the wild

The natural range of Philodendron grandipes stretches from south-eastern Nicaragua through Costa Rica and Panama to Colombia and Ecuador.

It inhabits wet tropical forest, scrambling through nearby vegetation and sometimes growing on trees. The short stem and very long leaf stalks give the wild plant plenty of sideways reach.

Practical care for Philodendron grandipes

Leave room around the plant. The exceptionally long leaf stalks can reach well beyond the pot, so keep them clear of shelves, walls and neighbouring foliage. A rising stem can be steadied loosely if it starts to flop.

Light the plant evenly. Bright indirect light suits the broad leaves. If it begins leaning strongly to one side, change its position gradually so the crown is not suddenly turned away from the light.

Use a loose, bark-rich mix. Wait until the upper part has dried, then water the whole pot and let the excess escape. Never leave the container standing in collected water.

Watch the stem near the surface. Warm conditions and moderate humidity are fine, but good airflow is useful where the stem sits close to the mix.

Problems and responses for Philodendron grandipes

• The long leaf stalks sag and the leaves feel soft: Lift the pot before watering. A light, dry container needs a soak; a heavy one suggests the roots are already too wet.
• The stem or leaf-stalk bases soften near the mix: Expose the area and let the surface dry more between waterings. A dense mix that stays soggy should be replaced.
• The whole plant leans toward one side: Check whether the light is strongly one-sided and whether the rising stem needs support. Correct either gradually so the plant is not forced into a sudden new position.
• Broad leaves pick up silver scars or fine pale specks: Thrips are more likely around tender growth; mites usually show underneath older leaves. Inspect both areas, then deal with whichever pest is present.

Philodendron grandipes is toxic to people and pets

• Keep this plant away from children, cats and dogs.
• Its leaves and stems contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can irritate the mouth, throat, skin and eyes.
• Chewing may cause burning pain, drooling, swelling, vomiting or difficulty swallowing. Contact a veterinarian or medical professional after exposure, especially if swelling or breathing problems occur.

Who first published Philodendron grandipes, and what does the name mean?

Philodendron combines Greek philein, meaning “to love,” with dendron, meaning “tree.” Grandipes combines Latin grandis, large, with pes or pedis, foot.

Heinrich Wilhelm Schott established the genus Philodendron in 1829 in Wiener Zeitschrift für Kunst, Literatur, Theater und Mode, volume 3, page 780.

Kurt Krause first described Philodendron grandipes in 1913 in Das Pflanzenreich, IV, 23Db, page 48.