With its fantastic leaves, the Philodendron Green Dragon is a must have plant for every home! Here are all the growing details.
Philodendron Green Dragon is a splendid specimen that grows really well in homes. Here’s a detailed guide on how to maintain it easily.
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Philodendron Green Dragon Information
The Philodendron Green Dragon (Philodendron bipinnatifidum ‘Green Dragon’) is a cultivar of the Philodendron bipinnatifidum species, which is native to parts of Central and South America, including Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina.
The Green Dragon is a unique and eye-catching houseplant with distinct features. It has large, deeply lobed leaves that are typically around 2-3 feet long and shaped like a dragon’s head or a hand with fingers. The leaves have a glossy, dark green color and prominent, well-defined veins.
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Propagating Philodendron Green Dragon
Philodendron Green Dragon can be propagated through different methods, but growing it from stem cutting is the easiest!
- Look for a stem that has several nodes (where leaves emerge) and is at least 4-6 inches long.
- Using a clean and sharp pair of pruning shears or scissors, make a clean cut just below a node on the selected stem. Remove any lower leaves, leaving a pair at the top intact.
- Prepare a small container or pot with well-draining soil or a mixture of peat moss and perlite. Make a small hole in the soil with your finger or a pencil, and insert the cut end of the stem into the hole. Gently press the soil around the stem to secure it in place.
- Place the container in a warm and bright location, but avoid direct sunlight. Maintain a consistently warm temperature between 70-85°F (21-29°C).
- Water the cutting thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. Keep the soil lightly moist but not soggy during the propagation process. Mist the leaves regularly to maintain humidity around the cutting.
- In a few weeks, the cutting should start developing roots.
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Requirements for Growing Philodendron Green Dragon
Light
Philodendron Green Dragon enjoys bright light, but it should be shielded from direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn or scorch. Place the plant near a window where it receives bright, indirect light for a few hours a day.
Soil
Start with a high-quality peat-based potting mix, or create your own mix using equal parts peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
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Peat moss helps retain moisture, while perlite and vermiculite improve drainage and aeration.
Water
Before watering, check the moisture level of the soil. Insert your finger about an inch or two into the soil. If it feels dry at that depth, it’s an indication that the plant needs watering. If the soil still feels slightly moist, it’s best to wait for a few more days to avoid overwatering.
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Temperature and Humidity
The ideal temperature range is between 70°F and 85°F (21°C and 29°C). Temperatures above 90°F (32°C) can stress the plant and may cause leaf curling or browning.
Aim for a relative humidity level of around 50% or higher. If the air in your home or growing space is dry, you can increase humidity by using a humidifier, placing the plant on a tray of water with pebbles, or grouping it with other plants to create a microclimate of increased humidity.
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Philodendron Green Dragon Care
Fertilizer
A fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 is suitable. It’s recommended to use about half the recommended dosage to avoid over-fertilization.
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Apply the diluted fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer. If you live in a cold climate, avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is in a period of slower growth.
Pests and Diseases
Although Philodendron Green Dragon is typically resistant to pests, occasional infestations by aphids, mealybugs, scales, and spider mites can occur. These small insects can cause harm to the leaves and stems, resulting in yellowing and wilting.
Additionally, diseases like root rot, leaf spot, and stem rot can also affect the plant. To avoid these issues, refrain from overwatering the plant.
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Philodendron Green Dragon – Toxicity
Like many other plants in the Araceae family, it contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause mild irritation and discomfort when consumed.
Ingesting any part of the Philodendron Green Dragon, including leaves, stems, or sap, can cause symptoms of toxicity if a significant amount is consumed. This is especially true for children, pets, or individuals with heightened sensitivity.
