Philodendron hederaceum var. oxycardium ‘Brasil’

From Holambra to the wild habitat of Philodendron ‘Brasil’

‘Brasil’ originated in Holambra, Brazil, where it appeared in 1991 as a naturally occurring mutation among cultivated plants and was kept for its green-and-lime leaves.

Its parent variety is Philodendron hederaceum var. oxycardium, which grows wild from Mexico to Honduras. The green heartleaf vine climbs through surrounding plants in warm, humid tropical forest.

How to grow Philodendron ‘Brasil’

Give the patterned leaves bright indirect light. The vine stays stronger in a bright position, but direct sun can scorch the lime stripe. Leaf pattern will still vary naturally.

Use its flexible stems to suit your space. Let them spill from a shelf or guide them upward. If you train the plant to climb, attach the stem loosely and keep the leaves free.

Feel the mix before reaching for the watering can. Once the top has dried, water evenly and let the pot drain. Adjust the interval as seasonal light and temperature change.

Choose an open potting mix. Bark and other coarse material help excess moisture leave the root area quickly. Keep the vine warm and out of cold draughts.

Troubleshooting Philodendron ‘Brasil’

• Several new leaves show much less lime: The stripe naturally changes from leaf to leaf. Keep the vine in good indirect light and watch the next few leaves before pruning or moving it.
• The lighter stripe develops crisp brown edges: Check for strong sun, a long dry spell or mineral residue on the potting mix. One of these is usually behind the damage.
• The plant yellows while the pot takes ages to dry: Increase the gap between waterings and remove water from the saucer or outer pot. A compacted mix may need replacing.
• Silver marks, webbing or pale speckles appear: Thrips usually show around the newest leaves, while mites prefer the undersides. Inspect both and deal with the pest that is there.

Philodendron hederaceum var. oxycardium ‘Brasil’ 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.

When was Philodendron hederaceum first published, and what does it mean?

Philodendron combines Greek philein, meaning “to love,” with dendron, meaning “tree.” Hederaceum is Latin for ivy-like and refers to the plant’s trailing and climbing habit.

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

Nicolaus Joseph von Jacquin first described it as Arum hederaceum in 1760 in Enumeratio Systematica Plantarum, page 31. Heinrich Wilhelm Schott later placed it in Philodendron as Philodendron hederaceum in 1829 in Wiener Zeitschrift für Kunst, Literatur, Theater und Mode, volume 3, page 780.