How to Grow and Care for Silver Sword Philodendron Indoors?

The silver sword Philodendron is a climbing evergreen philodendron and is well-known for its beautiful silvery green color and sword-shaped leaves. The plant is native to the tropical rainforest of Brazil and is considered very rare enough to come by. But if you've managed to get your hands on it, they are easy to take care of. They need little to no maintenance and can enhance the beauty of the space, making it look more pronounced. The best part is that they are not susceptible to insects and pests.

So, whether you are a beginner or an experienced plant owner, the silver sword philodendron is the best choice. This blog discusses everything about the Silver sword philodendron to ensure you're aware of care tips and other important details.

Characteristics of Silver Sword Philodendron

Overview and Origin of Silver Sword Philodendron

The silver sword philodendron, first documented in the 1850s, is scientifically named Philodendron hastatum K. Koch & Sellow. It is native to Brazil, and although it was once considered rare, its hardy nature and ease of propagation have made it a staple in homes globally. Silver sword philodendron flowers feature a spadix that is surrounded by a spathe. However, these are usually not seen in households.

The bluish-gray color of the narrow and thick pointed leaves, which resemble a sword, is what makes the plant so popular. The plant has a velvety and soft feel, and if you take a closer look underneath, you'll notice beautifully detailed lines that enhance its beauty even more. The baby leaves look oval and pointed and require longer light exposures hig, her humidity, and frequent watering. However, as the plant reaches maturity, the leaves grow into a triangular, arrowhead shape, which looks more like a sword.

Steps to Propagate Silver Sword Philodendron

Silver sword philodendron can be easily grown from stem cuttings. Here are a few easy steps to propagate philodendron silver sword -

• Pick a healthy silver sword philodendron. Ensure the base plants do not have sick stems or leaves, as these parts are more prone to disease and infestation.

• Cut the stem below the node in one swift motion, as multiple cuts can distress your plant.

• Ensure the stem has nodes, which are brown knobs on the stem of the silver sword that can develop into roots.

• Place your stem cutting in a jar filled with clean water. It is advisable to change the water to prevent bacterial growth.

• When the roots reach a few centimeters, transplant the cuttings to a pot or garden plot and watch your plants flourish.

Silver Sword Philodendron Care Tips

A philodendron silver sword is easy to care for indoors. It needs a moss pole or trellis to climb up as it grows and thrives in warm temperatures. The silver sword should be placed in bright, filtered light, and requires consistent moisture to stay healthy.

Light

The silver sword philodendron thrives in bright and indirect sunlight. It should be placed near a window, but avoid strong, direct sunlight for extended periods. This makes them susceptible to sunburn.  A lack of sunlight can cause the leaves to wilt and lose their vibrancy, and lead to weak and leggy growth.

Soil

As an aroid, the silver sword philodendron needs a soil mix that holds some moisture while allowing excess water to drain easily. You can buy aroid-specific soil mixes online or from plant-specialty stores, or you can simply create your own at home. It is advisable to mix equal parts of indoor potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark, which creates a chunky, nutrient-rich mixture. Additionally, you can also add some fertilizers, such as worm castings, bone meal, or compost, to make the soil richer in nutrients.

Water

Silver sword philodendron has semi-succulent leaves and can thrive with inconsistent watering as well. It is advisable to water only when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry, ensuring excess water drains completely. If you're using a cache pot, let the nursery pot finish dripping before placing it back. Also, empty any water collected in the catch plate to prevent root rot. If you see drooping leaves, it's time to water the plant.

Temperature & Humidity

These plants are native to rainforest conditions and prefer moderate temperatures and medium to high humidity. Indoor temperatures are usually sufficient, but avoid exposing your plant to excessive changes or temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Although this plant can adapt to normal household humidity, it often prefers higher levels. This helps promote fuller, healthier growth. To provide extra moisture, consider placing the plant near a humidifier or using a pebble tray with water.

Fertilizer

During its active growing season, the Silver Sword Philodendron responds well to regular feeding and a nutrient-rich soil mix with plenty of organic matter. In spring and summer, use a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength every 2 - 4 weeks while watering. However, it is advisable not to fertilize in the fall and winter, as the plant is usually dormant during these seasons.

Pruning

Pruning helps regulate the plant's height and manage weight distribution on all sides. It also promotes new growth, making the plant look bushier and fuller. If you trim the adult leaves toward the top, your plant will produce more baby leaves that are more rounded in shape and smaller in size. Once it grows, it will be back to its original sword-like shape. You can repeat the process and also propagate the pruned part into a new plant.

Repotting

The silver sword philodendron has a large root system and may outgrow its pot within a month. You may need to repot your plant once a year or perhaps more frequently. Your plant is root-bound if it is constantly thirsty and the soil soon dries out despite frequent watering or if roots poke out of the drainage holes. So, it's time to transfer your plant to a larger container.