Syngonium erythrophyllum Birdsey ex G.S.Bunting

• Genus: Syngonium
• Botanical Background: Described by botanist G.S. Bunting in 1977, Syngonium erythrophyllum has been recognized for its ornamental qualities. Early collections of this species were made by plant explorers in the rainforests of Central America.

• Geographical Range: Native to the tropical rainforests of Costa Rica and Panama; thriving at altitudes ranging from sea level to around 1,500 meters
• Environment: Naturally grows in humid, shaded environments with consistent rainfall; prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soils; thrives in a consistently warm climate with moderate temperatures and high humidity levels

Leaves

• Arrow-shaped
• Dark green with distinctive red or maroon veins
• Can become larger, with more prominent venation patterns
• Smooth to slightly leathery, with a glossy appearance

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• White spathe and spadix
• Flowers are not particularly showy; spathe can occasionally have a slight purplish hue
• Pollination facilitated by insects

Growth Habit

• Climbs or creeps that forms a spreading ground cover when mature
• Rhizomatous root system; propagate via both rhizome division and aerial stem cuttings

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions
• Vibrant leaf color may fade with insufficient light

Watering & Humidity

• Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
• Regular misting or placing the plant in a humidity tray is recommended to maintain high humidity levels

Soil & Potting Mix

• A well-draining, loamy soil mix (peat, perlite, and pine bark)
• Ensure good drainage while retaining enough moisture

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Thrives between 18-27°C (65-80°F)
• Balanced liquid fertilizer at half-strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth

Division

• Place the cuttings in water or well-draining soil

  
  

Stem Cuttings (if applicable)

• Propagate with at least one node
• Place the cuttings in water or well-draining soil

Seeds

• Less commonly practiced due to the difficulty of obtaining viable seeds in cultivation

Typical Issues

• Spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids
• Root rot can occur if overwatered or kept in poorly draining soil

Treatment Recommendations

• Insecticidal soap or neem oil for pest control
• Ensure soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering
• Trim affected roots and repot the plant in fresh soil

• Admired for its striking foliage, which can evoke a sense of exotic beauty in interior spaces
• Plays a role in providing ground cover in the forest understory
• Highly prized in the ornamental plant world for its dramatic leaf patterns, compact size, and ease of care

Wild Population Status

• No major conservation concern;  not considered endangered
• Habitat destruction in its native range could potentially threaten wild populations

Market Availability

• Relatively common in the houseplant trade
• Found in specialist plant stores or through online plant retailers