Heartleaf Philodendron
Philodendron hederaceum
AKA: Sweetheart Plant, Heartleaf Philodendron
easy
low_to_medium water
low, medium, bright_indirect
Pet caution
Heartleaf philodendron is a classic, fast-growing trailing plant with soft heart-shaped leaves. It is extremely forgiving and ideal for beginners.
Care snapshot
☀️ Light
Low, Medium, Bright Indirect
💧 Water
Low To Medium
💨 Humidity
Medium
📈 Growth
Fast
Heartleaf Philodendron Care at a Glance
Heartleaf philodendron is a timeless houseplant loved for its trailing vines, heart-shaped leaves, and extremely easy care.
Best For
- Beginners
- Low light homes
- Offices
- Shelves and hanging pots
- Fast visual growth
Not Great For
- Homes with plant-chewing pets
- Direct sunlight
- Cold rooms
Light Requirements
This plant adapts well to low light but grows faster and fuller in brighter indirect light. More light also results in larger leaves.
How to Water Heartleaf Philodendron
Allow the top layer of soil to dry before watering. Overwatering is the most common cause of yellowing leaves and root issues.
Watering Tips
- If leaves droop slightly, it’s time to water.
- Always use pots with drainage holes.
- Reduce watering frequency in winter.
Soil and Pot
Use a loose, well-draining mix in a pot with drainage. Heavy soils increase the risk of root rot.
Pruning and Training
Trim vines regularly to keep the plant bushy. Cuttings can be reused to propagate or planted back into the same pot.
How to Propagate Heartleaf Philodendron
- Cut a healthy vine just below a node with at least one leaf.
- Place the cutting in water or moist soil.
- Ensure the node is submerged or buried.
- Roots usually appear within 1–3 weeks.
Common Problems & Fixes
Yellow leaves
Cause: Too much water
Fix: Let soil dry more between waterings
Long bare stems
Cause: Low light
Fix: Move to brighter indirect light and prune
Brown leaf tips
Cause: Dry air or mineral buildup
Fix: Flush soil and slightly increase humidity
Pet Safety Warning
- Heartleaf philodendron is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.
- Keep out of reach of pets and children.
When the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry.
Yes, but growth will be slower and leaves may be smaller.
Most commonly from overwatering.
No. It is toxic if chewed or ingested.
Pet warning
Contains calcium oxalate crystals. Ingestion may cause mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting.
Video tips
Extra reading
FAQ
When the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry.
Yes, but growth will be slower and leaves may be smaller.
Most commonly from overwatering.
No. It is toxic if chewed or ingested.
