Habitat:
Philodendron fibrosum is native to the tropical rainforests of Ecuador and Colombia, where it grows at elevations of 500 to 1300 metres. It is typically found in premontane to lower montane humid forests, often in deeply shaded, moist environments. This species is terrestrial to hemiepiphytic, climbing, or sprawling in the understory where humidity is high and airflow is gentle.
Description:
A striking species known for its unusual fuzzy petioles, Philodendron fibrosum is a terrestrial to hemiepiphytic aroid that can reach over 1 metre in height when supported. The leaves are heart-shaped (cordate), thickly leathery, and velvety to the touch, with a rich dark green upper surface and paler green underside. Each leaf measures 30–45 cm long and 20–35 cm wide, with prominent palmate venation. The most distinctive feature is its densely pubescent petioles, covered with short, soft, red-brown fibres, giving the species its name. The inflorescence consists of a single spathe and spadix, about 15–20 cm long, with the spathe externally green and internally pale to cream, enclosing a pale green to whitish spadix It flowers rarely in cultivation.
Cultivation:
Grow Philodendron fibrosum in moderate, indirect light, avoiding direct sun. Maintain daytime temperatures of 20–28 °C, with nighttime lows around 15–18 °C. Humidity should remain high above 70%—to replicate its cloud forest origins. Water when the top few centimetres of substrate become dry, ensuring a moist but well-drained medium rich in organic matter. A mix of fine orchid bark, coco coir, perlite, and humus is ideal. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.8–6.5). Fertilise monthly with a balanced, dilute foliage feed during the growing season. Airflow is important to prevent rot around the base and petioles.
Specifications:
Plant Size: adult size, with 2-3 leaves
Plant Family: Araceae
Plant Passport: Philodendron fibrosum B 140084 C 15927 D GB