At a glance
- Light
- Medium / indirect light
- Typical interval
- Every 6 to 8 days (summer)
Every 11 to 17 days (winter) - Climate
- 18–27 °C
- Humidity
- 50–70 %
- Pet safety
- Toxic to cats and dogs
- Scientific name
- Philodendron hederaceum
When and how much water
Water heartleaf 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
Heartleaf 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 heartleaf 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
Heartleaf philodendron is comfortable between 18 and 27 °C. Below 10 °C the leaves start taking damage, so keep it clear of cold drafts and unheated rooms.
It does best at 50–70% 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 Heartleaf philodendron toxicity guide →
Pet-safe alternatives with similar light
Common questions
How often should I water a Heartleaf philodendron?
Water your heartleaf philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) 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 Heartleaf philodendron need?
Heartleaf 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 Heartleaf philodendron safe for cats and dogs?
The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing it can cause oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting. Keep heartleaf 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 Heartleaf philodendron’s leaves turning yellow or drooping?
On a heartleaf philodendron, yellowing and soft growth usually mean overwatering: watch for yellowing leaves, black mushy stems, or root rot. Let the soil dry further between waterings and check drainage. If you see drooping leaves, curling leaves, or crispy brown edges 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.
Sources4 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineTaxonomy · accepted name · classification · native range
- North Carolina State University Extension Gardener Plant ToolboxIndoor habit · light · moisture · humidity · temperature · pests · leaf spots · root rot
- Royal Horticultural SocietyLight · temperature · watering · humidity · feeding · compost · repotting · support · problems · toxicity · Identity · partial shade · soil drainage and pH · houseplant context
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlScientific name · toxicity · insoluble calcium oxalates · clinical signs
Last reviewed: 2026-09-21
All Heartleaf philodendron guides
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