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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 preferred, but this plant tolerates 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) better than most. It will grow in partial to deep shade, though at slower rates and with smaller leaves. direct sun (right in the window where sun actually hits the leaves. A strong grow light 4-6 inches away can substitute) fades and scorches the foliage.Light
Keep soil consistently damp but not saturated. Water when the top inch of soil dries out, drain thoroughly, and never leave roots standing in water. Mist the foliage twice daily in summer; water sparingly (water small amounts, less often. Let the soil dry out almost completely between waterings) in winter.Water
Tolerates dry air but prefers 40%+ relative humidity. Brown leaf tips are the first sign that the air is too dry. Kitchens and bathrooms with natural humidity are naturally good spots.Humidity
65-80°F (18-26°C). Avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C) and keep away from cold drafts and air conditioning vents.Temperature
easyDifficulty
Philodendron scandens oxycardium climbing with glossy deep green heart-shaped leaves and aerial roots

Heart-Leaf Philodendron

Philodendron scandens

Easy

Philodendron scandens — still widely sold under this name despite a taxonomic reclassification — is a vigorous tropical viner with shiny, heart-shaped leaves and an impressive tolerance for indoor conditions. It trails naturally from a hanging basket or climbs eagerly up a moss pole, and the care requirements are about as uncomplicated as it gets in the world of tropicals. Think of it as the plant equivalent of a reliable first car: not the flashiest option, but it shows up every day and does the job without drama.

Philodendron scandens oxycardium climbing with glossy deep green heart-shaped leaves and aerial roots
Yercaud-elango via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Philodendron scandens oxycardium climbing with glossy deep green heart-shaped leaves and aerial roots
Yercaud-elango via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Care Guide

How to grow Heart-Leaf Philodendron

Light

bright indirect light (3-6 feet

Water

Keep soil consistently damp but not saturated.

Humidity

40%

Temperature

65-80°F

Soil

Well-draining mix with organic matter

Propagation

Stem tip cuttings just below

Common Problems

Aphids, scale, spider mites, fungus

Did You Know

Fun Facts

The name Philodendron scandens is technically a synonym — most botanical authorities now classify this plant as Philodendron hederaceum, a name dating to 1829, but P. scandens remains widespread in horticulture because old nursery labels die hard.

Pet Safety

Toxic to pets

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Ingestion causes oral irritation, swelling of the mouth and throat, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

Sources

  1. Why Philodendron hederaceum Is the Correct Name for P. scandens - UBC Botanical Garden Forums (opens in new tab)Botanical Garden
  2. Heart-Leaf Philodendron Complete Care and Growing Guide - Gardening Know How (opens in new tab)Reference
  3. Heart-Leaf Philodendron Complete Care and Growing Guide — Gardening Know How (opens in new tab)Reference
  4. Philodendron scandens Heart Leaf Philodendron — University of Florida IFAS Extension (opens in new tab)Reference
  5. Why Philodendron hederaceum Is the Correct Name for P. scandens — UBC Botanical Garden Forums (opens in new tab)Reference
  6. Philodendron scandens Heart Leaf Philodendron - University of Florida IFAS Extension (opens in new tab)University Extension
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