15 - 20cm Philodendron 96898 House Plant 10.5cm Pot

🌿 Philodendron ‘96898’ — Collector’s Hybrid Philodendron

Philodendron ‘96898’ is a rare and highly sought-after climbing hybrid, admired for its broad, heart-shaped foliage, striking silver veining, and lush, tropical appeal. Believed to be a cross between Philodendron pastazanum and Philodendron sodiroi, this plant brings together the best of both: large, textured leaves with a subtle metallic sheen, and a manageable, upward-climbing growth habit. Best supported by a moss pole or plank, Philodendron ‘96898’ adds refined structure and depth to plant collections, shelves, or vertical displays. While rarer than standard philodendrons, it is surprisingly easy to grow when given warmth, humidity, and bright filtered light — making it an ideal statement plant for collectors and design-conscious plant lovers.

☀️ Light Requirements

• Indoors: Prefers bright, indirect light to maintain strong leaf development and variegation.

• Direct sun: Avoid harsh sun, which may scorch the leaves.

• Low light: Tolerated, but may result in slower growth and smaller leaves.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Ideal temperature: 18–28°C (64–82°F)

• Minimum temperature: Keep above 15°C (59°F)

• Humidity: Thrives in moderate to high humidity. Regular misting or placement near a humidifier will encourage larger, healthier foliage.

💧 Watering Needs

• Watering frequency: Water when the top 3–5 cm of soil feels dry. Maintain consistent moisture without letting the soil become soggy.

• Winter: Reduce watering slightly if growth slows.

• Tip: Use filtered or rainwater if your tap water is hard or chlorinated — this helps preserve healthy foliage edges.

🪴 Soil & Potting Notes

• Soil type: Use a loose, chunky aroid mix — combine houseplant compost with orchid bark, perlite, and a touch of coco coir or charcoal for airflow and drainage.

• Pot type: Choose a pot with good drainage and consider using a climbing support like a moss pole or cedar plank.

• Repotting: Every 1–2 years in spring, or when roots begin circling the pot.

🌱 Feeding

• Growing season (spring–summer): Feed every 4 weeks with a balanced liquid fertiliser, or a slow-release aroid feed.

• Autumn–winter: Reduce feeding to every 6–8 weeks or pause if growth is dormant.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Pruning: Minimal required — remove old or yellowing leaves at the base to maintain plant health and appearance.

• Leaf care: Wipe gently with a damp cloth to remove dust and enhance the silver sheen.

• Support: Grows best when given a vertical support for leaves to mature and increase in size.

🌾 Propagation

• Stem cuttings: Can be propagated via node cuttings in water, moss, or aroid mix. Ensure each cutting includes at least one node and aerial root if possible.

• Rooting tip: Warmth and humidity will speed up rooting — ideal for propagation boxes or humid chambers.

🐛 Pests & Problems

• Common pests: Spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs — particularly in dry conditions or crowded collections.

• Symptoms: Speckled leaves, curling edges, webbing, or sticky residue.

• Treatment: Neem oil or insecticidal soap. Isolate affected plants and increase airflow.

• Common issues:

  • Yellow leaves: Usually a sign of overwatering or root stress.

  • Small new leaves: May indicate low humidity or lack of climbing support.

🧤 Toxicity & Safety

• Toxicity: Toxic if ingested by pets or humans. Contains calcium oxalates which may irritate.

• Precaution: Keep out of reach of pets and children.

🏡 Decor Use & Styling Tips

• Perfect for:

  • Statement indoor plant collections, paired with other rare aroids

  • Vertical displays using moss poles, wooden boards, or coir totems

  • Designer interiors seeking bold foliage with a subtle silver finish

• Pairs well with textured pots in ceramic, concrete, or matte finishes

• Ideal for plant collectors or anyone looking to elevate their indoor jungle with a rare, yet manageable, climbing species