How to Grow and Care for Philodendron Melanochrysum

Philodendron melanochrysum plants, commonly known as black-gold philodendron, is a rare type of vining philodendron that has become a sought-after houseplant due to its gorgeous foliage. Its velvet leaves come in shades of dark green with brilliantly contrasted yellow veins. In their native habitat, the plant climbs upon trees. You can simulate this by letting it grow on a moss pole, which will encourage larger leaf growth up to 24 inches long.

These plants may be difficult to find but once you have one in your possession, they are surprisingly easy to care for. Another boon: Like all philodendrons, it has air-cleaning abilities.

The plant is toxic to humans and pets.

Common Name	Black-gold philodendron, melano plant
Botanical Name	Philodendron melanochrysum
Family	Araceae
Plant Type	Perennial, vine
Mature Size	3-5 ft. tall, 1-2 ft. wide (indoors); 12 ft tall, 8 ft. wide (outdoors)
Sun Exposure	Partial
Soil Type	Loamy, moist but well-drained
Soil pH	Acidic
Bloom Time	Summer
Flower Color	Green, white
Hardiness Zones	9-11 (USDA)
Native Area	South America
Toxicity	Toxic to humans and pets

Philodendron Melanochrysum Care

Native to the tropical regions of South America, philodendron melanochrysum appreciate warm conditions, dappled light, and consistent watering. Regular pruning is usually not necessary when these plants are grown indoors, but occasional pruning may be required if your plant is getting too large for your space. As these plants mature, it is recommended that you provide them with some type of structure to climb, such as a moss pole or trellis.

If you have a mature plant, you may get the chance to see it bloom—although their blooms are not nearly as spectacular as their velvet foliage. In fact, many growers choose to cut off the green flower spathes in order to redirect the plants energy back to their beautiful foliage.

Light

Philodendron melanochrysum naturally grow as forest understory plants where they receive dappled, indirect light. When grown indoors, it is best to try and replicate these conditions by choosing a location for your melanochrysum that receives bright, indirect light. Avoid exposing these tropical plants to prolonged periods of direct sunlight as the leaves burn easily.

Soil

The potting medium should be well-draining but moist and high in organic content. Many growers grow their philodendron melanochrysums in pure sphagnum moss, which is organic, airy, and retains water well. Alternatively, make your own soil mixture by combining one part peat moss, one part perlite, and one part orchid bark mix.

Water

Philodendron melanochrysum requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not wet, which increases the risk of root rot. As a general rule, water the plant once the top 2 to 3 inches of soil have dried out and do it thoroughly until water drains from the pot’s drainage holes.

Temperature and Humidity

Philodendron melanochrysum should be kept in average indoor temperatures between 65 and 80°F and a humidity level of 50% or higher. If possible, place the plant near a humidifier or in a greenhouse.

Fertilizer

Nutrient-rich soil is important to the health of the philodendron melanochrysum, and the plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced liquid fertilizer during its active growing period. Use an NPK fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, once a month from the early spring to the late summer.

Propagating Philodendron Melanochrysum

Philodendron melanochrysum is easy to propagate from stem cuttings, which is a great way to reuse any pruning leftovers. Here’s how you to propagate your plant in a few easy steps:

1. Take a cutting: Using a pair of sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears, take cuttings with at least two nodes along the stem.
2. Remove bottom leaves: Strip the bottom 1-2 leaves off each cutting to expose the nodes, leaving 1-2 leaves on the top of the cutting.
3. Root in water: Place the cuttings in water so that the exposed nodes on the bottom of each stem are fully submerged. Keep the glass in a location with bright, indirect light.
4. Plant the cuttings in soil: After a couple of weeks, you should notice small roots beginning to sprout from the cuttings. Once the roots are at least an inch long, plant the stem cuttings in a pre-moistened, well-draining potting mix.
5. Keep the cuttings moist: Return the potted cuttings to a location that receives bright, indirect light, and keep the soil consistently moist for the first 1-2 weeks after planting to help the cuttings acclimate.
6. Reduce the watering: After a couple of weeks begin to cut back on watering and let the soil partially dry out between waterings.

Potting and Repotting

Philodendron melanochrysumhas a moderate growth rate (about 6 to 12 inches per year) so you may need to repot your plant every two to three years or when the plant doubles in size.

Fill a pot one size up with fresh, well-draining potting medium to give your plant fresh nutrients. Repot philodendrons in the late spring or early summer to minimize transplant shock and give it room for growth.

Common Pests & Plant Diseases

When grown indoors, philodendron melanochrysum are relatively well-protected from most pests and diseases. However, watch out for signs of common houseplant pests such as scale, mealybugs, fungus gnats, and spider mites; and diseases such as root rot, bacterial leaf spot, and fungal infections.

Common Problems With Philodendron Melanochrysum

Common problems with philodendron melanochrysum are usually a result of improper light or watering. Luckily, these plants are pretty resilient and if the issue is caught early enough, it is likely that they will make a full recovery.

Yellowing Leaves

Overwatering is the most common cause of yellowing leaves on a philodendron melanochrysum. Cut off any affected leaves and ensure that you allow the top couple inches of soil to dry out between waterings.

Browning Leaves

Brown, crispy leaves are usually an indication that your plant is not receiving enough moisture, or it is getting too much direct light (i.e. sunburn). Sometimes however, older leaves turning brown and falling off are just a natural part of the leaf's life cycle and are no cause for concern. If you notice newer leaves developing brown spots, this is a larger cause for concern.

Leggy Growth

Leggy growth is a common issue for many vining plants, and is an indication that your plant is not receiving enough light. Choose a spot that receives at least 6-7 hours of bright, indirect sunlight.

From: thespruce