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bright indirect light (3-6 feet from a south or west window, or right next to an east window. Under a grow light, 6-10 inches away works well) is ideal. As a forest understory climber it tolerates some shade, but growth slows noticeably in low light (more than 8 feet from a window, or a north-facing room. A grow light 10-12 inches away works great if your windows are not cutting it). Avoid direct sun (right in the window where sun actually hits the leaves. A strong grow light 4-6 inches away can substitute), which causes yellowing and scorch marks on the leaves.Light
Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil starts to dry, and always ensure excess water drains freely. Soggy soil leads to root rot and yellowing leaves.Water
Prefers 50-70% humidity. Use a pebble tray, humidifier, or group it with other tropical plants to maintain moisture levels. Average household humidity in the low 40s is workable but not ideal.Humidity
70-80°F (24-29°C) during the day, 65-70°F (18-21°C) at night. This plant cannot handle frost and suffers below 55°F (13°C).Temperature
moderateDifficulty
Philodendron bipennifolium Fiddle-Leaf Philodendron showing distinctive violin-shaped leaves

Fiddle-Leaf Philodendron

Philodendron bipennifolium

Moderate

Philodendron bipennifolium is a fast-growing tropical climber with large, glossy olive-green leaves shaped unmistakably like a violin or a horse's head — the plant has two common names because people cannot agree on which comparison is more accurate. New leaves emerge in a bright neon yellow before maturing to rich green, and each leaf can stretch 10 to 18 inches long on mature plants. Give it a moss pole to climb and it will reward you with progressively larger and more dramatic foliage.

Care Guide

How to grow Fiddle-Leaf Philodendron

Light

bright indirect light (3-6 feet

Water

Keep soil consistently moist but

Humidity

50-70%

Temperature

70-80°F

Soil

Well-draining, slightly acidic loamy mix

Propagation

Stem cuttings with at least

Common Problems

Spider mites, mealybugs, scale, and

Did You Know

Fun Facts

New leaves on Philodendron bipennifolium emerge bright neon yellow before slowly darkening to deep green as they mature — the same plant can look like two completely different species depending on which leaves you are looking at.

Pet Safety

Toxic to pets

Toxic to humans, dogs, and cats. Contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause oral irritation, swelling, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing if chewed or ingested. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

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