Rhaphidophora korthalsii is an unusual tropical climbing plant prized for its distinctive growth habit and glossy green foliage. Unlike many other aroids, young plants often produce narrow, elongated leaves that lie flat against their support in a shingling pattern. As the plant matures, especially when given a moss pole or plank to climb, the leaves become much larger, broader and more dramatic.

The plain green form grows faster and more vigorously than the variegated forms, making it an excellent choice for anyone wanting an impressive climbing plant with less demanding care.

Description

• Botanical name: Rhaphidophora korthalsii
• Common names: Dragon Tail Shingle Plant, Creeping Rhaphidophora
• Plant type: Tropical climbing houseplant
• Mature size indoors: 2–3m or more with support
• Leaf colour: Glossy deep green
• Growth rate: Moderate to fast

Young plants often look very different from mature ones. Juvenile foliage is usually smaller and simpler, while mature plants can develop much larger leaves with a more dramatic appearance.

Care Guide

Light

Rhaphidophora korthalsii prefers bright, indirect light.

• Place near a bright window with filtered light
• It can tolerate medium light, but growth will be slower
• Avoid harsh direct sun, especially in the afternoon, as this may scorch the leaves

Because the green form has no variegation, it is more tolerant of lower light than the variegated varieties.

Watering

Allow the top few centimetres of compost to dry slightly before watering.

• Water thoroughly, then allow excess to drain away
• Avoid letting the compost become waterlogged
• Reduce watering during winter

It prefers lightly moist compost but does not like sitting in wet soil.

Humidity

Rhaphidophora korthalsii enjoys moderate to high humidity.

• Ideal humidity: 50–80%
• It will usually adapt to normal household humidity
• Higher humidity encourages larger leaves and healthier growth

Temperature

Keep warm all year round.

• Ideal range: 18–28°C
• Avoid temperatures below 15°C
• Protect from cold draughts

Soil

Use a loose, well-draining aroid compost mix.

A good mix is:

• 50% houseplant compost
• 25% orchid bark
• 25% perlite or pumice

This gives the roots plenty of airflow while retaining enough moisture.

Feeding

Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser.

No feeding is needed in winter.

Support

This plant grows best when given something to climb.

• A moss pole, plank or totem is highly recommended
• Climbing encourages the leaves to become much larger
• Keep the support slightly damp to help the aerial roots grip

Without support, the plant may remain smaller and lose its characteristic shingling growth.

Common Problems

Yellow Leaves

Usually caused by overwatering or poor drainage.

Brown Tips or Edges

Often due to dry air or inconsistent watering.

Slow Growth

Can be caused by low light, cool temperatures or lack of support.

Leggy Growth

A sign that the plant needs brighter conditions.

Root Rot

Usually caused by staying too wet for too long.

Propagation

Rhaphidophora korthalsii is easy to propagate from stem cuttings.

1. Take a section of stem with at least one node and one leaf
2. Root it in water, sphagnum moss or perlite
3. Keep warm and in bright, indirect light
4. Pot into soil once roots are established

Propagation is easiest during spring and summer.

Pet Safety

Rhaphidophora korthalsii is toxic if eaten and should be kept out of reach of pets and children. It contains calcium oxalate crystals which can cause irritation.