Philodendron hederaceum “Brazil”

Philodendron hederaceum 'Brazil' is a vibrant, easy-to-grow vining plant known for its heart-shaped leaves with striking green and yellow variegation. Often referred to as “Brazil,” this tropical beauty thrives in a variety of conditions, making it an excellent addition to bioactive setups for terrariums, vivariums, or paludariums.

Care Instructions

LIGHT. Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light levels. However, variegation may diminish if light is too low. In a bioactive setup, place it near the light source but avoid direct sunlight, which could scorch the leaves.

SOIL. A well-draining, loose soil mix is ideal. A good recommendation would be a blend of coconut coir, perlite, and orchid bark. This mimics the conditions of its natural, tropical habitat, ensuring proper aeration and drainage. If you're housing it in a bioactive enclosure, this type of soil will allow both the plant and the decomposer organisms (like isopods and springtails) to thrive.

WATERING. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Let the top 1-2 inches dry out between waterings. In bioactive setups, springtails and isopods will help maintain the balance by breaking down excess organic matter, so you can allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings without worrying about over-watering.

HUMIDITY. Being a tropical plant, it thrives in high humidity. A bioactive environment will naturally provide the humidity it loves, creating a win-win situation. Keep humidity levels above 60% for optimal growth.

TEMPS. Prefers warm temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Avoid placing it in areas with temperature fluctuations or cold drafts.

FERTILIZATION. During the growing season (spring and summer), feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. Try our dissolvable Mealworm Frass produced by our mealworm colonies, grown and fed on the whole variety of vegetation, as your nutrient-pumped plant food. In the winter, reduce feeding as growth slows down.

Cohabitation with Bioactive Organisms

ISOPODS. These decomposer critters are perfect companions for Philodendron hederaceum 'Brazil'. Isopods will help keep the substrate healthy by breaking down dead plant matter and uneaten food, ensuring the soil remains nutrient-rich without becoming too compact. In return, they benefit from the plant’s fallen leaves and other organic debris.

SPRINGTAILS. These tiny arthropods are excellent for maintaining soil health by consuming mold, fungi, and decaying organic matter. Springtails thrive in moist, humid environments, making them a perfect fit for a bioactive tank housing Philodendron hederaceum 'Brazil'.

Soil and Maintenance Tips

SUBSTRATE. As mentioned, a well-draining mix is key. You can add a layer of activated charcoal at the bottom of the tank for filtration and a cleaner setup. On top of this, place a mixture of coconut coir, orchid bark, and perlite to promote proper root health.

HUMIDITY CONTROL. You can enhance humidity by incorporating a shallow water dish in the enclosure, or by misting lightly once a day. Springtails will appreciate the moisture, and it will help your Philodendron thrive.

TRIMMING. To keep your Philodendron neat, trim the vines periodically. This also encourages bushier growth. The plant does well when pruned, as it helps maintain its health and shape. Plus, cuttings can be propagated easily in water or soil, making it a great opportunity for new plants.

PEST CONTROL. Philodendron hederaceum is generally pest-resistant, but in a bioactive setup, springtails and isopods will naturally help control any pest populations like mealybugs or aphids by feeding on their eggs or small larvae.

With its lush foliage and vibrant colors, Philodendron hederaceum 'Brazil' makes a beautiful and resilient addition to any bioactive enclosure. It coexists seamlessly with decomposers like isopods and springtails, while benefiting from the natural ecosystem of your vivarium. By mimicking the plant's native tropical habitat with proper humidity, light, and well-draining soil, you’ll create a healthy environment where both your plants and bioactive creatures can thrive.