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Philodendron applanatum G.M.Barroso

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Philodendron applanatum G.M.Barroso
  • Common Name: No widely recognized common names

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to South American tropical regions
  • Features: Broad, heart-shaped leaves and a characteristic inflorescence structure; unique leaf texture and its adaptation to humid, forested environments

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Philodendron
  • Botanical Background: Described by botanist G.M. Barroso, whose contributions have been significant in cataloging Brazilian aroids; its formal description has added valuable insights into the diversity and evolutionary relationships within the Philodendron genus.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Found in areas with dense, humid forest canopies, potentially including parts of Brazil’s diverse ecosystems in the native to tropical regions in South America.
  • Environment: Thrives in warm, humid conditions and favors well-drained, organically rich soils and environments where filtered light mimics the dappled conditions of a rainforest understory.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Large, heart-shaped leaves
  • Glossy and leathery
  • Subtle yet appealing texture
  • Coloration is a uniform deep green

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Spathe is modestly colored with hints of green and cream
  • Scent is minimal but serves as an attractant for specialized pollinators

Growth Habit

  • Primarily a terrestrial plant but also exhibits characteristics of a semi-epiphyte
  • Develops a creeping rhizome that enables it to spread along the forest floor or cling to supports

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Bright, indirect light, which replicates the filtered sunlight of its native forest understory
  • Direct sunlight should be avoided to prevent leaf scorch

Watering & Humidity

  • Ensure that the soil remains consistently moist but never waterlogged
  • Benefits from high humidity

Soil & Potting Mix

  • Use a well-aerated, organically rich potting medium such as a mix of peat and perlite
  • Substrate should offer excellent drainage while retaining enough moisture

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Ideal temperature ranges between 65°F and 80°F
  • Balanced, diluted fertilizer applied during the growing season

Propagation Methods

Division and Cuttings

  • Most reliable propagation method is through division of its rhizomes or node cuttings
  • Should be performed during the active growing period


Seeds

  • Less common for home growers due to inconsistent germination; require warm, humid conditions to sprout and develop

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Infestations by spider mites and mealybugs
  • Occasional fungal infections such as root rot in overwatered conditions

Treatment Recommendations

  • Insecticidal soap and appropriate organic fungicides
  • Maintaining proper watering techniques and ensure good air circulation

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Captivates enthusiasts with its unusual, flattened leaf structure and elegant inflorescence
  • Discovery has enriched our understanding of tropical aroid diversity
  • Treasured for its rarity and distinctive aesthetic
  • Serves as a conversation piece among collectors
  • Popular choice for those seeking to bring a touch of the tropics into cultivated collections

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • There is concern that habitat loss due to deforestation may impact wild populations of this species

Market Availability

  • Available through specialized dealers and plant societies

References & Resources

Further Reading

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