The Philodendron sharoniae is commonly referred to as Sharon’s philodendron. This plant is a terrestrial vine that grows well in USDA plant hardiness zones 10 and above. This evergreen produces glossy leaves that are 4 to 6 inches long with smooth edges.
The foliage is dark green and has a waxy texture. Sharon’s philodendron requires little care to grow into an impressive, large plant suitable for decorating patios, porches or hanging baskets. Let’s look at how to grow and care for a Philodendron sharoniae.
What is a Philodendron Sharoniae?
Sharon’s philodendron is an evergreen vine with heart-shaped leaves that produces creamy white flowers. It’s part of the Araceae plant family which consists of over 400 varieties. The plant is popular in the United States due to its easy care, impressive appearance, and strong durability. Although sharoniae can produce stunning blooms, it’s usually grown for its attractive foliage.
Philodendron sharoniae is toxic, and the sap may cause skin irritation in some people; it is advisable to wear gloves when working with the plant. If ingested, the plant will cause vomiting, so it’s best to keep this plant out of the reach of pets and young children.
How to Care for a Philodendron Sharoniae
Sharoniae philodendrons perform well in partial shade or indirect sun. This plant enjoys moist soil that is slightly acidic with a pH range of between 5.0 and 7.0. When planting your sharoniae, be sure to select a location where the roots will not
be disturbed by lawnmowers, weed trimmers, and other garden equipment. Sharon’s philodendron can thrive in hanging baskets and should be watered regularly. The
plant can be fertilized once or twice per season, using a balanced fertilizer to ensure proper nutrition. This vine is also fairly tolerant of pests such as spider mites and aphids.
Sunlight needs
Provide bright indirect sunlight for maximum plant growth and foliage color. Don’t leave your plant in the full sun, or it may become sunburnt, which will discolor the foliage and leave brown patches.
Watering Requirements
The Sharoniae philodendron requires low to moderate water levels during its growing season (spring through fall). When watering, drench the soil thoroughly, then allow it to dry slightly between waterings.
Proper drainage is essential; ensure the proper planting depth by using a pot with a drainage hole or lining the bottom of an indoor container with rocks or pebbles before adding soil. Be careful not to overwater your plant, or root rot may occur.
From late fall until spring, reduce watering levels. During this resting period, the philodendron will appear dry and may look unattractive. As soon as new leaves begin to emerge, increase watering levels to encourage full foliage production.
Fertilization
As with all philodendrons, fertilize regularly during active growth periods (spring through fall). Use a 10-10-10 NPK ratio fertilizer diluted to ½ the recommended strength for container plants.
Pests
Common indoor pests include spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects. Aphids may be removed with a strong stream of water; if the problem persists, use insecticidal soap or neem oil as directed on the label. Scale insects can be removed by hand; apply a horticultural oil as directed on the bottle for severe infestations.
Propagation
Sharoniae philodendrons are propagated by rooting stem tip cuttings during spring or summer. Remove all but two sets of leaves from the lower third of the cutting and root it in moistened potting mix. With proper care, new roots will form
after several weeks. After 8-10 weeks, transplant the merging plant into its own pot.
Humidity
Average room humidity is sufficient for healthy growth; you can increase humidity slightly in dry areas by misting your plant’s leaves. Aim to create a humidity of around 50%. You can also place your plant in the kitchen or bathroom as
these areas have naturally higher humidity. If you have a lot of tropical plants, you may like to invest in a humidifier that will help them thrive.
Conclusion
Philodendron sharoniae is a wonderful houseplant with striking foliage. It makes an excellent living room accent plant due to its eye-catching appearance and ease of care. By following these easy-care tips, you should enjoy your philodendron sharoniae for many years.