Philodendron Mamei

Philodendron Mamei Soil

The best Silver Cloud soil is a well-draining rich soil high in organic matter such as garden compost. A standard potting mix with incorporations of peat moss, perlite, mulch, and orchard bark should treat this plant nicely. Nutrient-rich incorporations such as from compost will aid in growth and water retention.

Philodendron Mamei Fertilizer

It would be best to give your Philodendron Mamei a monthly growing boost throughout the warm growing season of spring and summer by utilizing a balanced liquid fertilizer, rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Alternatively, a granular fertilizer may be used biannually (early spring and late summer). Follow all label instructions and be careful not to overfertilize, which may lead to chemical burn. Do not feed in winter. 

Philodendron Mamei Watering

Philodendron Mamei should be watered regularly, about once weekly, depending on growing conditions. This Philodendron likes to remain moist but not overly saturated. You must not overwater or allow this plant to sit in standing water within the plant tray, as root rot is the number one killer of Philodendrons. Watering frequency may be reduced in fall and winter. 

Philodendron Mamei Light Requirements

Silver Cloud will thrive in bright indirect light. While naturally growing on the forest floor in dappled light and tolerating partial shade, Philodendron Mamei will grow best in 80% sunlight, such as from east or west-facing windows. 

Philodendron Mamei Temperature & Humidity

Silver Cloud Philodendron will grow well at average household temperatures between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not allow your Philodendron to reach temperatures below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, as this will cause significant damage to the plant. Being a tropical plant, Silver Cloud enjoys growing at high humidity levels at or above 60%. Adding a humidifier or pebble tray to increase moisture levels will aid in giving this Philodendron the growing environment it needs to flourish. However, you may keep in mind that this plant is quite forgiving, and it will tolerate lower humidity conditions. 

Repotting Philodendron Mamei

You should repot your Philodendron annually, as these plants do not like to be root bound or cramped. Select a container that is 1-2″ larger in diameter with plenty of drainage holes. Remove the root ball, lightly separate the roots, place in a new pot, and surround with a well-aerated growing medium. Consider adding a moss pole or a coir pole for this plant to climb on. Tamp down the soil gently, water thoroughly, and grow in indirect light. 

Philodendron Mamei Maintenance & Pruning

Trim discolored leaves as needed using sharp, sterilized shears. This plant does not require much pruning. However, trailing growth may be trimmed back to encourage bushier growth and keep length in check. Also, wipe down the leaves weekly as dust clings to the leaves which make it harder for the plant to absorb the light, and therefore grow.

Philodendron Mamei Propagation

Philodendron Mamei may be propagated from stem cuttings. Select a vine and cut a piece of stem that has at least three nodes using sharp, sterilized shears. Remove leaves from the bottom portion of the stem and plant in an equal mixture of perlite and sphagnum moss. Ensure that the soil remains moist. Rooting hormone is not necessary. Grow in indirect light, and new roots should appear within a few weeks.

Philodendron Mamei Toxicity

Containing calcium oxalate crystals, the Philodendron Mamei is toxic to pets and humans. Never ingest this plant and keep away from pets and children.

Toxicity to Humans

Philodendron Mamei is considered toxic to humans and should not be ingested, as it may cause digestive upset and a range of other adverse symptoms. Do not consume any portion of this plant.

Toxicity to Cats & Dogs

Philodendron Mamei is considered toxic to pets. Ingestion of this plant will cause GI upset. If you suspect your pet has ingested any portion of this plant, contact your veterinarian or animal poison control immediately.

Philodendron Mamei Problems

Philodendron Mamei Leaves Turning Yellow

Leaves that turn yellow usually indicate overwatering. Yellow leaves may also be due to a fungal infection. If root rot is suspected, as indicated by yellowing leaves and mushy, brown roots, repot cuttings in a new container with sterile soil to salvage. 

Philodendron Mamei Leaves Turning Brown

Browning of the foliage, especially on leaf edges, is typically a sign of underwatering or leaf scorching from too much direct light. Ensure that your Philodendron is receiving enough water and is not sitting in intense, direct sunlight.

Philodendron Mamei Diseases

Philodendron Mamei is generally considered to be disease resistant. However, this Philodendron may experience bacterial infections such as Erwinia blight disease and Pseudomonas leaf spot. Both diseases require moisture to spread, so it is very important not to overwater and provide well-draining soil. If you have trouble with proper drainage, adding sand into the soil can be beneficial and help the soil to drain more.

To tell if your Philodendron Mamei has Erwinia blight disease, check the roots in the soil and the leaves. This disease will make the soil smell very unpleasant. If noticed, prune the infected leaves right away and change the soil. Let the soil dry out.

Philodendron Mamei Pests

While generally considered to be pest-resistant, this Philodendron can become infested by common pests such as aphids, moths, fungus gnats, mealybugs, scale, and thrips. A routine monthly application of insecticidal soap and neem oil should take care of any nuisance insects. Be sure to follow all label instructions to get rid of all the bugs. 

FAQ

Is Philodendron Mamei a Crawler or Climber?

From its natural habitat in Ecuador, the Philodendron Mamei would crawl on the surface of the ground. This plant is a crawler, but when grown as a houseplant, you can train it to climb or crawl.

Is Philodendron Mamei Rare?

Philodendron Mamei is a plant you don’t see very often in nurseries and local gardens. It has become more popular in recent years, but before that the Philodendon Mamei was a rare plant.

Other Philodendron Resources:

• Philodendron Guides
• Other Philodendron Plants
• Philodendron Family Care Guides
• Philodendron Silver Sword Plant Guide
• Philodendron Rojo Congo Plant Guide