🌿 Philodendron micans – Care Sheet
Velvet leaves. Zero drama.
Philodendron micans is a fast-growing, trailing philodendron with soft, velvety leaves that shift between deep green, bronze, and burgundy depending on light. Tough, forgiving, and very photogenic.
☀️ Light
Bright, indirect light is ideal 🌤️
Handles medium light, but growth slows
Too much direct sun = faded or scorched leaves
Low light won’t kill it… just makes it sulk
👉 North- or east-facing windows are perfect.
💧 Water
Water when the top 3–5 cm of soil is dry 🚿
Likes evenly moist soil, not wet
Overwatering = root rot (this is the #1 killer)
Underwatering = limp, dull leaves (recoverable)
Rule of thumb: when in doubt, wait another day.
🌡️ Temperature
18–30°C is the sweet spot 🌡️
Loves warmth
Avoid cold drafts and temps below 15°C
Happy year-round in Pretoria conditions
💦 Humidity
Medium to high humidity preferred 🌫️
Normal indoor humidity is fine
Higher humidity = bigger, softer leaves
Great candidate for bathrooms or grouped plants
🌱 Soil
Well-draining, airy mix is non-negotiable
Recommended mix:
40% bark or coco chips
30% good-quality potting soil
20% perlite
10% worm castings
🚫 Heavy soil = compacted roots = unhappy plant
🌿 Feeding
Light but regular feeding during active growth 🍽️
Use a balanced liquid fertiliser at ¼–½ strength
Feed every 2–3 weeks in spring & summer
Reduce or stop feeding in winter
Overfeeding shows fast — burnt tips don’t lie.
✂️ Pruning & Growth
Naturally trails — perfect for hanging pots 🪴
Pinch tips to encourage bushier growth
Can be trained up a moss pole for larger leaves
🌱 Propagation
Ridiculously easy ✨
Stem cuttings with at least one node
Root in water, sphagnum, or directly in soil
Roots form fast in warm conditions
🐛 Pests
Generally pest-resistant 💪
Watch for spider mites and mealybugs in dry air
Treat early with insecticidal soap or neem
⚠️ Toxicity
🚫 Toxic to pets and humans if ingested
Keep away from cats, dogs, and curious mouths.
✅ At a Glance
✔️ Easy-care
✔️ Fast grower
✔️ Excellent trailing plant
✔️ Beginner-friendly
✔️ Instagram-approved 📸
Want a lush, cascading plant with attitude but no tantrums?
Philodendron micans delivers — just give it light, restraint with water, and let it do its thing 🌿😏