Philodendron luxurians aka Philodendron Luxurians

Philodendron luxurians thrives in warm temperatures between 18-30°C (65-85°F), mimicking its native tropical Colombian habitat. Nighttime temperatures should ideally remain between 16-21°C (60-70°F). Never expose this plant to temperatures below 13°C (55°F), and keep it away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and sudden temperature fluctuations. Temperatures below 7°C (45°F) will cause serious damage or death to the plant.

Philodendron luxurians is a moderate grower that stays relatively compact indoors, typically reaching 60-90 cm (2-3 feet) in height. Mature leaves can reach up to 45 cm (18 inches) long and 30 cm (12 inches) wide. This species has a creeping, terrestrial growth habit similar to P. gloriosum, crawling along the ground rather than climbing aggressively. When given vertical support like a moss pole, it can transition to a semi-climbing form and may produce larger leaves.

Philodendron luxurians is best propagated through stem cuttings in spring or early summer. Select a healthy stem section 8-15 cm (3-6 inches) long with at least two nodes and two leaves. Using sterilized shears, cut just below a node. Root the cutting in water (changing every 3-5 days) or directly in moist sphagnum moss. Maintain high humidity using a propagation box or plastic covering. Once roots are several inches long and new growth appears, transplant to a well-draining aroid mix.

Repot Philodendron luxurians every 1-2 years or when roots emerge from drainage holes. Use a shallow, wide pot rather than a deep one to accommodate its creeping growth habit. Choose a pot only 2-5 cm (1-2 inches) larger than the current one to prevent waterlogging. Use a well-draining aroid mix rich in organic matter. Repot in spring during the growing season and handle the plant gently to minimize stress and transplant shock.

The velvety leaves of Philodendron luxurians require gentle cleaning to maintain their characteristic texture. Dust leaves carefully using a soft, dry brush or microfiber cloth. Avoid using leaf shine products or oils, which can damage the delicate velvet texture. If deeper cleaning is needed, use lukewarm water and gently wipe the leaves, then allow them to dry completely. Never rub the leaves vigorously as this can damage the velvety surface.

Philodendron luxurians requires minimal pruning. Remove yellowed, damaged, or dying leaves by cutting them at the base of the petiole using sterilized scissors or shears. This helps redirect the plant's energy to healthy growth. The creeping growth habit means the plant naturally spreads horizontally rather than becoming leggy. Avoid heavy pruning as this species is slow to recover and may be stressed by significant leaf removal.

Philodendron luxurians can grow outdoors only in USDA hardiness zones 10-12, where temperatures remain consistently warm year-round. Plant in a shaded location with filtered light, protected from direct sun which will scorch the leaves. The extreme humidity requirements (60-80%) make outdoor cultivation challenging in most climates. In suitable tropical or subtropical regions, it can be grown as a ground cover in shaded garden beds with consistently moist, well-draining soil.

Philodendron luxurians can flower, but blooming is extremely rare in indoor cultivation. Philodendrons must reach full maturity (typically 15-16 years) before producing their characteristic aroid inflorescence consisting of a spadix surrounded by a spathe. The spadix generates heat up to 45°C (114°F) to attract beetle pollinators. If you're fortunate enough to see a bloom, it will only be open for about two days. Indoor specimens almost never reach the maturity and conditions required for flowering.

Philodendron luxurians is susceptible to spider mites (especially in dry conditions), mealybugs, and scale insects. Spider mites cause yellowing leaves and fine webbing; treat by increasing humidity and applying neem oil. Mealybugs appear as white cottony masses; remove with rubbing alcohol and treat with insecticidal soap. The species is also prone to root rot from overwatering and bacterial leaf spot (brown spots with yellow halos). Prevent issues by maintaining proper humidity, avoiding overwatering, and quarantining new plants.

Yellow leaves on Philodendron luxurians most commonly indicate overwatering or root rot, as this species is very sensitive to waterlogged soil. Other causes include insufficient light (older leaves may yellow as the plant redirects energy), low humidity, nutrient deficiency, or natural aging of older leaves. Check the roots for rot (black, mushy roots) and adjust watering. Ensure the plant receives adequate filtered light and maintain humidity above 60%.

Brown leaf tips or edges on Philodendron luxurians typically indicate low humidity, which is critical for this species requiring 60-80% humidity. Brown spots may signal bacterial leaf spot (water-soaked spots turning brown with yellow halos), sunburn from direct light, or fertilizer burn. Crispy brown patches often result from underwatering or cold drafts. Increase humidity using a humidifier, move away from direct sunlight, and ensure consistent watering practices.

Drooping leaves on Philodendron luxurians usually indicate watering issues—either underwatering (soil too dry) or overwatering (root rot preventing water uptake). Check soil moisture: if dry, water thoroughly; if soggy, check roots for rot and repot in fresh, well-draining mix. Other causes include temperature stress from cold drafts or temperatures below 13°C (55°F), transplant shock after repotting, or low humidity causing moisture loss faster than roots can absorb.

Slow growth in Philodendron luxurians can result from insufficient light (increase filtered bright indirect light), low temperatures (maintain 18-30°C/65-85°F), inadequate humidity (needs 60-80%), poor nutrition (fertilize monthly during growing season), or being rootbound. This species is naturally a moderate grower under optimal conditions and will grow even slower when conditions are suboptimal. Improve lighting and ensure all environmental conditions meet the species' demanding requirements.

Are you up for a challenge? Philodendron Luxurians will test your gardening skills and require extra care and attention to thrive.

Philodendron Luxurians’s native range is Central, South America, and the Caribbean.

Philodendron Luxurians should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Philodendron Luxurians loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

To ensure optimal growth, the Philodendron Luxurians prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

The Philodendron Luxurians does not necessitate supplementary humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their roots, rather than their leaves. Hence, the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants is by watering the soil.

The Philodendron Luxurians should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

The Philodendron Luxurians does not follow a standard dormancy pattern. If you observe a significant decrease in its growth rate, make sure that it is receiving an adequate amount of sunlight and water to flourish.