Menu
Log in
site_logo

Syngonium salvadorense Schott

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Syngonium salvadorense Schott
  • Common Name: Salvador arrowhead

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to the rainforests of Central America, particularly in El Salvador
  • Features: Large, arrow-shaped leaves that change color as they mature, with young plants exhibiting a bright green hue

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Syngonium
  • Botanical Background: First described by botanist Heinrich Wilhelm Schott in the 19th century, Syngonium salvadorense is part of the diverse group of species commonly known as arrowhead plants, a reference to the characteristic shape of their leaves.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Endemic to Central America, especially El Salvador.
  • Environment: Thrives in a tropical climate with high humidity, moderate rainfall, and temperatures between 20-30°C; favors well-drained, organic-rich soil and indirect sunlight.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Large, arrow-shaped, and leathery
  • Coloration shifts from a bright green in juvenile plants to a deeper, more variegated green with hints of silver or yellow

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • White or cream spathe surrounding a spadix
  • Flowers are small; not particularly fragrant
  • Pollination often facilitated by small insects attracted to the spadix

Growth Habit

  • Epiphytic or hemiepiphytic in nature, occasionally terrestrial
  • Rhizomatic; spread horizontally across surfaces, helping the plant seek out sunlight.

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Bright, filtered light mimicking its natural understory conditions
  • Avoid direct, intense sunlight that can scorch leaves

Watering & Humidity

  • Keep the soil consistently moist with regular watering, especially during warmer months
  • Maintain high humidity levels, ideally 60% or more, to encourage healthy and vigorous growth.

Soil & Potting Mix

  • A well-draining, peat-based potting mix (orchid bark or perlite)
  • Good aeration helps prevent root rot

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Thrives between 20-25°C 
  • Balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during active growth

Propagation Methods

Division

  • Using stem cuttings, especially those that include a node

Stem Cuttings (if applicable)

  • Cuttings can be rooted either in water or directly in a well-draining potting mix

Seeds

  • Less commonly practiced due to its preference for vegetative propagation

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

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

Treatment Recommendations

  • Isolate infected plants and treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap
  • Ensure proper watering habits and adequate airflow

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Valued for its attractive foliage and ease of care
  • Great choice for adding a tropical touch to interiors.
  • Its striking foliage evolves in both color and form as the plant mature
  • Climbing habit makes it a good candidate for hanging baskets or as a decorative feature in tropical gardens.

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • No significant conservation concerns

Market Availability

  • Relatively uncommon in the horticultural trade but can be found with specialty Aroid dealers or through propagation networks

References & Resources

Further Reading

Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software
Document