Philodendron Subincisum

🌿 Philodendron subincisum, a rare climbing aroid from Central and South America, brings dramatic tropical foliage into your home. This intermediate-level plant is known for its unique leaf development—juvenile leaves emerge oval and entire, but as the plant matures and climbs, they transform into deeply lobed, almost skeletal forms that resemble fingers reaching outward. In its natural rainforest habitat, this philodendron uses aerial roots to climb tall trees, seeking dappled light through the canopy. Here's a fun fact: the species name "subincisum" refers to the incised or cut appearance of its mature leaves, a transformation that only happens when the plant is given proper support to climb.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This climbing philodendron displays a vining growth habit and requires a moss pole or trellis to reach its full potential. Juvenile leaves are simple and oval-shaped, measuring around 10-15 cm, but mature foliage can reach 30-40 cm with deep lobes that create an almost architectural silhouette. The leaves are medium to dark green with a semi-glossy texture and prominent veining. As the plant climbs higher and receives adequate support, the leaf shape becomes increasingly dissected, showcasing the dramatic fenestrations that collectors prize.
FLOWER DETAILS
Like most philodendrons, Philodendron subincisum can produce flowers when mature, though this is uncommon in indoor cultivation. The inflorescence consists of a cream-coloured spathe surrounding a spadix, typical of the aroid family. These flowers lack fragrance and are not particularly showy, but their presence signals a well-established, thriving plant. The aesthetic appeal lies primarily in the foliage rather than blooms. Flowering frequency indoors is rare and unpredictable. To encourage any chance of flowering, provide consistent bright indirect light, maintain high humidity, and ensure the plant is climbing on a tall support structure—though even under ideal conditions, blooms remain an occasional surprise rather than an expectation.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS

🌞 Light: Bright indirect light for 6-8 hours daily. Avoid direct sun which scorches leaves. Tolerates medium light but growth slows and leaves stay juvenile.
💧 Water: Water when top 5 cm of soil dries out. In spring and summer, this may be weekly. In fall and winter, reduce to every 10-14 days. Bottom watering or thorough top watering until drainage occurs works best.
🌡️ Humidity: Prefers 60-80% humidity. Average home humidity (40-50%) is tolerated but may cause brown leaf edges. Use a humidifier or pebble tray.
🪴 Soil: Chunky, well-draining aroid mix. Combine potting soil, orchid bark, perlite, and a bit of peat or coco coir. Soil should retain some moisture but never stay soggy.
🏺 Potting: Use a pot with drainage holes, sized 2-5 cm larger than root ball. Terracotta or plastic both work. Repot every 2-3 years in spring when roots fill the pot. Always provide a climbing support.
🌱 Growth rate: Moderate to fast when climbing. Expect 3-5 new leaves over 6 months under good conditions. In one year, can grow 60-90 cm in height. Maximum size indoors reaches 2-3 metres when climbing.
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Feed every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer with diluted balanced liquid fertilizer (20-20-20). Reduce to every 8-10 weeks in fall and stop in winter.
🐾 Pet friendly: No. Contains calcium oxalate crystals that are toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion causes oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of pets.

WHERE TO PUT IT
Philodendron subincisum thrives in bright rooms with filtered light—living rooms near east or north-facing windows work beautifully, as do bedrooms with sheer curtains. Bathrooms with windows provide excellent humidity. Place it where it can climb upward on a moss pole or trellis, as vertical growth encourages leaf maturation. Avoid placing it in dim hallways, windowless rooms, or spots with direct afternoon sun. Keep away from cold drafts near exterior doors in winter, and ensure it's positioned out of reach of curious pets and small children.