Heartleaf Philodendron Care
Philodendron hederaceum: cordatum, Brasil, Micans, Lemon Lime and Cream Splash
At a glance
| βοΈ Light | Low to bright indirect. |
|---|---|
| π§ Water | When the top half of the soil is dry. |
| πͺ΄ Soil | Our Tropical Potting Mix. |
| π‘οΈ Temp | 16β29Β°C. |
| π¨ Humidity | Average is fine; Micans likes a bit more. |
| πΎ Pets | Not pet safe Toxic to cats and dogs if chewed. |
| π± Care level | Beginner Low light OK Fast grower |
| π Grows to | Trails or climbs 2 m+. |
Heartleaf philodendrons are easygoing trailing plants with soft, heart-shaped leaves. The classic green cordatum, striped 'Brasil', velvety 'Micans' and glowing 'Lemon Lime' are all the same species with the same easy care. They're often mistaken for pothos, but the leaves are thinner and more heart-shaped.
Light + placement
They tolerate low light, but medium to bright indirect light gives fuller vines and stronger colour (Brasil's stripes fade in low light). Avoid hot direct sun.
Watering
Water when the top half of the soil is dry. Drooping, curling leaves mean thirst; yellow leaves with wet soil mean too much water.
Soil + repotting
Our Tropical Potting Mix in a pot with drainage. Repot every 1β2 years in spring.
Feeding + upkeep
Feeding: We feed with Kelpy, a gentle plant food made from BC kelp. Mix 1 teaspoon into 1 litre of water and use it every time you water; this is a hungry plant. Kelpy is gentle enough to use year-round. Our rule of thumb: if your plant is putting out new growth, even in winter, keep feeding. If it's resting, you'll be watering less, so it gets fed less too.
For a slow, natural boost, top-dress the pot with a thin layer of worm castings every few months, or mix some in when you repot. Prefer a granular food? BIOS Natural Plant Food mixes into the top layer of soil (about 1 tablespoon per 6-inch pot) once a month while your plant is growing. A little white fuzz on the soil afterwards is normal; it's the helpful fungi at work.
Trim leggy vines in spring and replant the cuttings to keep the pot full.
Philodendron or pothos?
Heartleaf philodendron leaves are thinner, softer and more heart-shaped, and new leaves emerge from a small sheath (cataphyll). Pothos leaves are thicker and waxier. Care is very similar. See our Pothos Care guide.
Propagation
Cut below a node and root in water; it's one of the easiest plants to propagate. See Propagation 101.
Common problems
| What you see | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow leaves, wet soil | Overwatering | Let the top half dry first. |
| Long bare stems, small leaves | Not enough light | Move closer to the light; prune and replant cuttings. |
| Brasil losing its stripes | Low light | Brighter indirect light brings the stripes back on new leaves. |
| Curling, droopy leaves | Thirsty | Water deeply. |
| Brown crispy edges (Micans) | Dry air | Raise humidity; keep away from heaters. |
Varieties we carry
Same care for cordatum, Brasil, Micans, Lemon Lime and Cream Splash. Only what's in stock online right now is shown.
Frequently asked questions
Is heartleaf philodendron good for low light?
Yes, it's one of the best trailing plants for lower light.
Is it safe for pets?
No. Philodendrons are toxic to cats and dogs if chewed.
How do I make it bushier?
Pinch or trim the vine tips and replant the cuttings in the same pot.
Can it grow in water?
Yes. Cuttings grow happily in water for a long time.
Heartleaf Philodendron care kit
- Tropical Potting Mix: Our all-round Soil Bar mix for leafy tropicals.
- Moisture Meter Β· $14.99: Tells you when the bottom of the pot is actually dry.
- Kelpy Plant Growth Booster: Gentle BC kelp plant food you can use year-round.
- Worm Castings: A slow, natural boost from our Soil Bar. Top-dress every few months.
Bring your plant (or a photo) to 515 Chatham St #103 and we'll take a look. Open 11β5, 7 days a week, with street parking nearby. Get directions β
More plant care guides
ZZ Plant Β· Pothos Β· Calathea Β· Hoya Β· Peperomia Β· Ferns Β· Prayer Plant Β· Scindapsus Β· All plant care β