Araceae
Philodendron Pastazanum: Care & Growing Guide
Philodendron pastazanum
Grows best in medium to bright indirect light, watered when the top few centimeters of soil dry out, high humidity (60%+), and a well-draining, aroid-appropriate potting mix. Sensitive to overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Every 7 days
Bright indirect
18° - 24°C
60% - 80%
Categories
What is Philodendron Pastazanum?
Philodendron Pastazanum (Philodendron pastazanum) is a medium-care plant from the Araceae family. Philodendron pastazanum is a terrestrial, creeping aroid native to the rainforest floor of Pastaza Province in eastern Ecuador, also found in Peru, typically growing between 300 and 1,000 m elevation. Unlike many climbing philodendrons, it spreads laterally along the ground rather than climbing tree...
Philodendron Pastazanum grows up to 1.5m, watering every 7 days, 18°C â 24°C, 60â80% humidity. It is suitable for indoor environments and not safe for pets.
Without precautions, ingestion can cause irritation in pets. Keep out of reach of cats and dogs. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 14 days.
How to Care for Philodendron Pastazanum?
TLDR: Philodendron Pastazanum needs Bright indirect, watering every 7 days, and temperatures between 18-24°C with 60-80% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Philodendron Pastazanum?
Water when the top 2-3 cm (about an inch) of soil feels dry, roughly every 7 days; never let the pot sit in standing water.
How Much Light Does Philodendron Pastazanum Need?
Provide medium to bright indirect light, such as near an east- or north-facing window; avoid direct sun, which can scorch the leaves.
What Is the Best Soil for Philodendron Pastazanum?
Use a light, well-draining aroid mix with perlite, peat or coco coir, and organic compost; ideal pH is 5.5-6.5.
What Pot Should You Use for Philodendron Pastazanum?
A terracotta or clay pot with drainage holes helps prevent excess moisture buildup in the soil.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 30 days
What Is Philodendron Pastazanum and Where Does It Come From?
Philodendron pastazanum is a terrestrial, creeping aroid native to the rainforest floor of Pastaza Province in eastern Ecuador, also found in Peru, typically growing between 300 and 1,000 m elevation. Unlike many climbing philodendrons, it spreads laterally along the ground rather than climbing trees. It produces large, cordate (heart-shaped) leaves with pronounced ribbed venation and a velvety texture in deep green, distinguishing it from similar species such as Philodendron mamei and Philodendron sodiroi. The species was described by botanist K. Krause around 1940 and takes its name from Ecuador's Pastaza Province.
How to Propagate Philodendron Pastazanum?
Stem cutting
Use sterilized tools and change the water every few days if rooting in water.
- 1 Cut a stem segment with at least one node and a healthy leaf
- 2 Let the cut surface callus for a few hours in a dry spot
- 3 Plant in a light, moist potting mix or place in filtered water
- 4 Keep in bright indirect light and high humidity until roots form
Materials needed:
Air layering
Check moss moisture weekly so it doesn't dry out.
- 1 Select a healthy node along the stem
- 2 Wrap the node with moist sphagnum moss and plastic wrap
- 3 Keep the moss consistently damp until roots are visible
- 4 Cut below the new roots and pot up the new plant
Materials needed:
How Big Does Philodendron Pastazanum Grow?
TLDR: Philodendron Pastazanum can reach up to 1.5m tall with Medium growth rate.
Max height
1.5m
Growth rate
Medium
Foliage
Evergreen
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Philodendron Pastazanum?
TLDR: Philodendron Pastazanum is susceptible to 6 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Root Rot
Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the root system of plants, causing them to decay and die. It is primarily caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions where roots are deprived of oxygen, making them susceptible to fungal infection.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a common fungal disease caused by various pathogens including Alternaria, Ascochyta, Colletotrichum, Septoria, and Venturia. It primarily affects leaves, causing discolored spots that can lead to premature leaf drop if left untreated.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects covered with a white, waxy, cottony material. They are common pests of houseplants and outdoor plants in mild climates. These sap-sucking insects feed on plant tissue, causing damage, stunted growth, and can lead to plant death if left untreated. They produce sticky honeydew which attracts sooty mold.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids (less than 1/20 inch long) related to spiders and ticks that feed on plant sap. They thrive in hot, dry conditions and can cause significant damage to ornamental and vegetable plants. During severe infestations, crop losses can reach 14% or higher as these pests disrupt vital plant processes including photosynthesis, carbon dioxide absorption, and transpiration.
Fun Facts
The species name 'pastazanum' references Pastaza Province in Ecuador, where it was first documented.
Unlike most philodendrons, it grows as a creeping ground plant instead of climbing trees.
Its leaves can exceed 60 cm (2 ft) in length under good growing conditions.
Frequently asked questions
Is Philodendron pastazanum toxic to cats and dogs?
How often should I water Philodendron pastazanum?
What's the best spot for this plant indoors?
How do you propagate Philodendron pastazanum?
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dark Fieldcap | Medium | Low light | 2d | â ïļ |
| Azalea | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | â ïļ |
| Muriel's Bamboo | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | â |
| Bougainvillea | Medium | Direct sun | 7d | â ïļ |
