Fauna
Plant

Heart-leaf Philodendron

Philodendron hederaceum

Also known as Heartleaf Philodendron, Velvet Philodendron, Sweetheart Plant, Parlor Ivy

Heart-leaf philodendron is a resilient tropical vine native to rain forest understories across Central America and the Caribbean. Climbing via sticky aerial roots or trailing from tree branches, its glossy heart-shaped leaves adapt easily to varying light levels. Mature wild vines produce understated spathe-and-spadix flowers, while cultivated vines gracefully adorn indoor spaces worldwide.

Climbing VineHouseplantHeart-shaped
Heart-leaf Philodendron reference1 / 7
(c) Brittany Savoie, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Brittany Savoie · cc-by
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyPhotosynthetic
ThreatsHabitat destruction in native tropical ranges
HabitatsTropical moist forests, rain forests, indoors as ornamental houseplant
Life span20+ years
Classification
  1. OrderAlismatales
  2. FamilyAraceae
  3. GenusPhilodendron
  4. SpeciesPhilodendron hederaceum
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskHigh
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is high
Contains calcium oxalate crystals; toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if chewed or ingested.
Why it is dangerous
Contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause immediate oral irritation, swelling, and upset stomach if chewed or swallowed.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for trailing slender vines bearing soft, dark green heart-shaped leaves with papery stipule sheaths.
What to do
Keep potted specimens on elevated shelves or in hanging baskets out of reach of children and domestic pets.
Responsible observation
  • Lighting: Position in bright, indirect light to encourage dark green foliage without scorching leaves.
  • Watering: Allow the top inch of soil to dry completely between waterings to avoid root rot.
  • Safety: Hang pots high or prune trailing vines to keep foliage away from inquisitive pets.
Related species
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