Ferns & Focus
Philodendron mayoi
Foliage

Philodendron mayoi

Philodendron mayoi

Philodendron mayoi is a striking climbing aroid native to the rainforests of Brazil. It is highly valued by collectors for its deeply lobed, pinnatifid leaves that resemble the fronds of a palm or a fern. As the plant matures and is given vertical support, the foliage becomes increasingly dramatic and complex, offering a lush, architectural element to indoor tropical collections.

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Light

Bright Indirect

💧

Water

Moderate

🌱

Difficulty

Moderate

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Humidity

High

🐾 ⚠️

Pet Warning

Like most members of the Araceae family, this plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. If ingested, it can cause severe swelling of the mouth, throat, and tongue, as well as gastrointestinal distress in pets and humans.

Care Guide

Philodendron mayoi Care Guide Light: This plant thrives in bright, filtered light. Avoid direct sun, which can bleach or scorch the leaves, but ensure it receives enough brightness to maintain its deep green color and leaf structure. Watering: Water thoroughly when the top two inches of soil have dried out. Ensure the container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil and root rot. Humidity: Being a tropical native, it prefers humidity levels above 60 percent. Grouping plants together, using a pebble tray, or running a humidifier will help keep the foliage healthy. Support: As a natural climber, providing a moss pole or cedar plank is essential. This encourages the plant to produce larger, more mature leaves with deeper lobes. Soil: Use a chunky, well-aerated potting mix. A combination of orchid bark, perlite, and high-quality potting soil works best. Maintenance: Wipe the leaves occasionally with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and prevent pests like spider mites.

In-Depth Care & Growth

Feeding & Soil

Fertilizer

Balanced water-soluble liquid fertilizer

Soil

Well-draining, airy aroid mix composed of orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir.

Physical Attributes

Mature Size

4 to 8 feet in height when climbing

Growth Rate

Moderate

Propagation

Stem cuttings with at least one node rooted in water, moist sphagnum moss, or perlite.

Common Varieties

Standard species is most common; occasionally confused with Philodendron radiatum or Philodendron elegans.