Philodendron fenzilii
Origin
Mexico, Brazil
Family
Araceae
Description
“Philo” means love, whereas “Dendron” means “tree”. The plant was named Philodendron in reference to the fact that it is a “tree hugger” and loves to climb along with trees.
A very rare & aggressive aroid, the Philodendron 'Tripartitum' has three shiny lobes to each leaf on a vigorously growing vine. The surface of the leaf blades are semi-glossy & are 6 to 12 inches long. The leaves are tri lobed and can be green to dark green sometimes appearing almost gray-green.The leaf blade contains three lobes of roughly equal size.
The stems of Philodendron tripartitum is often several meters long with a pleasant aroma. The petioles can range from 20 to 61 cm long (8 inches to 24 inches). A petiole is the stalk which connects the leaf blade to the stem at the base of the plant.
Tripartitum is a fast-growing meandering philodendron that will perform well on totems or up a tree.
Environment
Philodendrons grow best in medium light and bright indirect sunlight. Older leaves turn yellow naturally. However, several leaves turns yellow at once, it could be an indicator that the plant is getting too much sun. They will tolerate low light, but if the stems become leggy with several inches between the leaves, move the plant to a brighter location.
Philodendrons like rich, loose potting soil that will drain well but is still high in organic matter. They can grow in 100 percent sphagnum peat moss. Avoid alkaline soil at all cost.
Keep the growing medium moist at all times. Push aerial roots into the soil on climbing varieties. Keeping the plants moist during winter when indoor air can get very dry can be a challenge. At the same time, avoid over watering or root rot may develop. If the leaves are drooping, it can indicate either too much water or not enough..
Philodendron is well suited to humid & tropical climate. They like humidity, so you might maintain the humidity around them with a pebble tray of water. Mist them frequently during the growing season, about every two days. During the \winter you should mist them every three to four days.
Philodendrons will produce larger leaves and remain healthier if you fertilize them regularly. Use slow-release pellets at the beginning of the growing season, or weekly 20-20-20 liquid fertilizer. During the winter you only need to fertilize about once per month.
Landscape Uses
'Tripartitum' philodendron is a fantastic under story plant in shady gardens in warm, frost-free regions. It is also an excellent houseplant in bright, warm indoor spaces.
Eliminates
Formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, xylene, ammonia, and more
Caution
Parts of plant are poisonous if ingested. Philodendrons are especially poisonous to dogs and cats.
