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Philodendron hederaceum Rio is a stunning and rare cultivar of the much-loved Heartleaf Philodendron. Originating as a sport of the popular Philodendron Brasil, this variety is treasured for its unique variegation pattern and elegant trailing habit.
The leaves are heart-shaped and glossy, but what sets Rio apart is its variegated striping: each leaf features a central streak of cream to silvery-white, flanked by shades of lime and emerald green. This gives the foliage a layered, painterly look that resembles brushstrokes. The variegation is unpredictable some leaves carry bold splashes, while others show subtle silvery lines ensuring that each vine is unique.
Compact and versatile, Philodendron Rio can be grown as a trailing plant in hanging baskets, cascading from shelves, or trained upwards on a moss pole or trellis. Its graceful vines and artistic variegation make it an exceptional choice for collectors and interior plant styling.
Thrives in bright, indirect light. Strong light enhances the variegation, while too little light may cause the creamy tones to fade and growth to revert green. Avoid harsh direct sun which can scorch leaves.
Water when the top 23 cm of soil feels dry. Keep the soil lightly moist in spring and summer but avoid soggy conditions. Reduce watering in winter.
Temperature: Prefers 1828C. Protect from draughts and cold temperatures below 15C.
Humidity: Average to high humidity (5070%) is ideal. The plant will adapt to normal household humidity but thrives in slightly more humid conditions.
Use a chunky, free-draining aroid mix peat-free compost blended with orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir. Repot every 12 years to refresh the mix and encourage steady growth.
Feed every 4 weeks in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser. Stop feeding in autumn and winter.
Trim back trailing vines to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove yellowing or damaged leaves promptly.
A moderately fast grower that can reach 12 m indoors in trailing or climbing form. Leaves typically stay smaller when trailing, but grow larger and more striking when trained upwards with support.
Loss of variegation: Insufficient light.
Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.
Leggy vines: A sign the plant is stretching for light.
Pests: Occasionally thrips, mealybugs, or spider mites.
The Philodendron Rio was discovered and introduced as a natural sport of the Philodendron Brasil. Its silvery-white striping makes it one of the most elegant and collectable Heartleaf Philodendrons. Like its relatives, it is forgiving, low-maintenance, and helps improve indoor air quality.
Quick Care Summary
Light: Bright, indirect; avoid strong sun
Water: Lightly moist; let topsoil dry slightly
Temperature: 1828C; avoid below 15C
Humidity: Average to high (5070%)
Soil: Chunky, free-draining aroid mix
Feed: Monthly in spring/summer
Growth: Trailing or climbing vine, 12 m; green heart-shaped leaves streaked with cream, silver, and lime