Philodendron hederaceum “Heartleaf”

The Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) is a popular, low-maintenance vining plant known for its glossy, heart-shaped, solid green leaves. It is perfect for adding a lush, tropical feel to any space and makes a fantastic addition to bioactive setups for terrariums, vivariums, or paludariums due to its easy-care nature and ability to thrive in various conditions.

Care Instructions

LIGHT. Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light levels. However, its growth may slow, and the leaves might lose some of their vibrancy in low light. In a bioactive setup, place it near a light source but avoid direct sunlight, which could scorch the leaves.

SOIL. A well-draining, loose soil mix is ideal. A blend of coconut coir, perlite, and orchid bark will help maintain aeration and proper drainage, which is essential for healthy root growth. In a bioactive environment, this mix will also allow decomposers like isopods and springtails to thrive by breaking down organic matter and enriching the substrate.

WATERING. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Let the top 1-2 inches dry out between waterings. In bioactive setups, the decomposers (springtails and isopods) will help balance moisture levels by consuming excess organic matter, which helps prevent over-watering. Avoid leaving the soil overly wet for extended periods.

HUMIDITY. Being a tropical plant, the Heartleaf Philodendron thrives in high humidity, making it ideal for bioactive setups. Aim to keep humidity levels above 60% to encourage healthy, lush growth.

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

FERTILIZATION. During the growing season (spring and summer), feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. You can also use our dissolvable Mealworm Frass, produced by our mealworm colonies and enriched with a variety of vegetation, as a nutrient-pumped fertilizer. In the winter, reduce feeding as growth slows down.

Cohabitation with Bioactive Organisms

ISOPODS. Isopods are ideal for a Heartleaf Philodendron setup. These decomposers will break down dead plant matter, fallen leaves, and uneaten food, helping to maintain soil health and nutrient levels. The plant also benefits from the organic material provided by the isopods.

SPRINGTAILS. Springtails are great companions for Heartleaf Philodendron in bioactive setups. They help maintain soil health by consuming mold, fungi, and decaying organic matter. Their constant activity helps keep the environment clean while benefiting the plant by breaking down organic matter into nutrients.

Soil and Maintenance Tips

SUBSTRATE. A loose, well-draining mix is crucial. Use a combination of coconut coir, orchid bark, and perlite to allow for root aeration while ensuring that decomposers have the proper environment to thrive. You can also add a layer of activated charcoal at the bottom for better filtration and odor control.

HUMIDITY CONTROL. If needed, increase humidity by incorporating a shallow water dish or misting lightly once a day. The springtails and isopods will help keep the soil moist, and your plant will benefit from the additional humidity.

TRIMMING. Heartleaf Philodendron grows quickly and can be easily trimmed to maintain a neat appearance or encourage fuller growth. Periodically trim the vines to keep them in shape. You can propagate cuttings in water or soil, which is a great way to expand your collection.

PEST CONTROL. This plant is generally pest-resistant, but in a bioactive environment, springtails and isopods will help control minor pests such as mealybugs or aphids by feeding on their eggs or larvae.

With its vibrant, glossy, heart-shaped leaves, the Heartleaf Philodendron is a beautiful and resilient addition to any bioactive setup. It thrives alongside decomposers like isopods and springtails, which contribute to a healthy, nutrient-pumped environment. By mimicking its tropical habitat with proper humidity, light, and well-draining soil, you’ll create a thriving ecosystem where both your plants and bioactive creatures can flourish.