Philodendron
Philodendron Silver Sword
Philodendron hastatum
Also known as: Silver Sword Philodendron, Philodendron hastatum
- Tropicals
- Part Sun to Part Shade
- Medium
- 90–180 cm
- 30–45 cm
- 40–50 cm
- Low
- Thriller
Toxic to pets.
Philodendron Silver Sword is a tropical climber with elongated, metallic silver-green leaves. Grown indoors or as a seasonal patio tropical, it makes a striking vertical foliage accent on a moss pole or trellis.
- Soil
- Well-drained, Loam
- Native status
- Introduced
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Foliage colour
- Silver, Green
- Foliage habit
- Evergreen
- Landscape use
- Container, Specimen
Care guides
Watering
Philodendron Silver Sword (Philodendron hastatum) stores moisture in fleshy roots or succulent stems more than a typical bedding annual. Water thoroughly until excess drains from the pot, then wait until the upper third to half of the mix feels dry before watering again. During active summer growth on a bright patio, you may water more often, but always confirm drainage holes are clear. Bring plants indoors before cool nights and ease off moisture under lower household light.
Sunlight
Philodendron Silver Sword (Philodendron hastatum) should be placed in part sun or part shade. Bright indirect light or gentle morning sun with protection from harsh afternoon rays keeps foliage lush. Harsh unfiltered midday sun can scorch leaves; very dark corners cause sparse, stretched growth. At a mature size around 90–180 cm, give neighbouring plants enough space so they do not shade out the crown as the season progresses.
Pruning
Trim Philodendron Silver Sword by cutting just above a leaf node with clean shears to control length and encourage branching. Remove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base as they appear. Wipe dusty foliage occasionally so plants can photosynthesize efficiently indoors. Keep pruned pieces and the plant itself out of reach of cats and dogs; sap or tissue may be toxic if ingested.