Philodendron pseudoverrucosum

Wet Andean forest from Ecuador to Peru

In the wet tropical forests of Ecuador and Peru, Philodendron pseudoverrucosum grows as a climbing aroid that establishes against tree trunks.

Care for the velvet foliage of Philodendron pseudoverrucosum

Place this climber in bright filtered light on a broad moss pole or rough plank. Avoid rubbing the velvety surface, and keep hot direct sun away from the leaves.

• Watering: Let only the upper third or so of the mix dry, and keep moisture even while a new leaf is opening.
• Humidity and airflow: Temperatures around 18–27 °C and humidity near 60–80% suit the plant when the leaves remain dry and air moves gently around them.
• Potting mix: Choose an airy bark-based mix that holds a moderate amount of moisture.

Marks on velvet leaves and shrinking climbing growth

Fingerprints and mineral residue sit on the surface and can usually be lifted gently with a barely damp cloth. A rubbing scar remains in the tissue but should not continue spreading.

Silvery scarring accompanied by black specks points more strongly to thrips.

• Pale stippling spreads across the blade: Examine both surfaces with magnification for spider mites and separate the plant before treatment.
• Leaves become smaller as the stem rises: Review filtered light, root health and attachment to the broad support before increasing fertiliser.
• Yellowing develops in a slow-drying pot: Inspect the roots and stem base for soft, dark tissue. Remove affected parts and replace compacted mix.

Dry margins can also result from severe drying, salt build-up or damaged roots, so check those causes before watering more often.

Philodendron pseudoverrucosum 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.

Where does the name Philodendron pseudoverrucosum come from?

Philodendron combines Greek philein, meaning “to love,” with dendron, meaning “tree.” The epithet pseudoverrucosum combines Greek pseudo-, meaning false or resembling, with Latin verrucosus, meaning warty, and points to its resemblance to Philodendron verrucosum.

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

Thomas Bernard Croat first described Philodendron pseudoverrucosum in 2013 in Aroideana, volume 36E, issue 1, page 52.