At a glance
- Light
- Medium / indirect light
- Typical interval
- Every 6 to 8 days (summer)
Every 11 to 17 days (winter) - Climate
- 18–28 °C
- Humidity
- 60–80 %
- Pet safety
- Toxic to cats and dogs
- Scientific name
- Philodendron bipinnatifidum
When and how much water
Water tree philodendron when the top 3 cm of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 11 to 17 days. Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Light and placement
Tree philodendron thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it 1–2 meters back from an east or west window, or behind a sheer curtain on a south window.
Feeding
Feed tree philodendron every 30 days while it’s actively growing. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp. Feeding dry roots can scorch them.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Tree philodendron is comfortable between 18 and 28 °C. Below 12 °C the leaves start taking damage, so keep it clear of cold drafts and unheated rooms.
It does best at 60–80% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Common problems
Yellowing, drooping, and dry edges often point to watering or drainage. Compare the signs before changing the routine.
Find what’s wrong
Toxic to pets?
Yes. Keep it out of reach.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
Full Tree philodendron toxicity guide →
Pet-safe alternatives with similar light
Common questions
How often should I water a Tree philodendron?
Water your tree philodendron (Philodendron bipinnatifidum) when the top 3 cm of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer, that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 11 to 17 days.
How much light does a Tree philodendron need?
Tree philodendron thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it 1–2 meters back from an east or west window, or behind a sheer curtain on a south window.
Is Tree philodendron safe for cats and dogs?
The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing it can cause oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting. Keep tree philodendron out of reach of pets, or pick a non-toxic alternative like money tree, rattlesnake plant, African violet, or Christmas cactus.
Why are my Tree philodendron’s leaves turning yellow or drooping?
On a tree philodendron, yellowing and soft growth usually mean overwatering: watch for yellowing lower leaves, soft trunk base, or root rot. Let the soil dry further between waterings and check drainage. If you see drooping leaves, crispy leaf edges, or curling leaflets instead, it’s likely thirsty. Water a little more often. With Botanicaly Pro, Botanicaly Bot can help assess visible signs from a photo and suggest possible causes.
Sources
- This guide follows established plant-care guidance and official ASPCA pet-safety references. How we verify our plant data →
Last reviewed: 2026-09-21
All Tree philodendron guides
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