The Philodendron Tortum is indeed a unique and relatively rare type of Philodendron. With its distinct, almost skeletal appearance, it catches the eye in any setting. Although it closely resembles the Philodendron Bipinnatifidum, the Philodendron Tortum features significantly wider notches in its leaves, making the remaining parts of the leaf look much thinner.
Despite common misconceptions that it's just a variation of the Philodendron Bipinnatifidum, this is not the case. The Philodendron Tortum was discovered in 2012, making it a "young" species within the Philodendron family. It was found in Manaus, within the Brazilian rainforest. Researchers Soares and Mayo, who discovered this species, published a paper describing it as a distinct species, not closely related to the Philodendron Bipinnatifidum.
In the wild, the Philodendron Tortum grows like huge vines up to 6 meters high and up to 1 meter wide. While such sizes are unlikely in a domestic setting, the Philodendron Tortum is still considered a very large houseplant.
Light/Location
In the South American jungle, this wonderful species grows in the shade of trees, receiving very little light. So, is it the perfect plant for shadier spots? Not exactly! Although these plants, or Philodendrons in general, are often sold as suitable for dark locations, this is a misconception due to our windows filtering out up to 40% of UV radiation and certain color spectrums of light. Therefore, the Philodendron Tortum needs a bright location without direct sunlight, as direct sunlight can burn the leaves, especially when combined with low humidity.
The best spot for your Philodendron is near a west or east-facing window. Here, it can enjoy the harmless morning or evening sun and be protected for the rest of the day.
Substrate
The right substrate is often overlooked by many plant enthusiasts who live by the motto "soil is soil." However, this could not be further from the truth, especially for Philodendrons. As epiphytes or hemiepiphytes, their roots are primarily for anchoring and are mostly air roots, requiring a steady supply of oxygen to prevent root rot.
Normal potting soil often blocks this oxygen supply due to its compact nature. Therefore, you should avoid regular potting soil and opt for special Philodendron soil instead. This soil is very coarse, does not retain too much water, and contains a lot of organic material.
Alternatively, you can mix your substrate with properties like those mentioned above. Start with normal potting soil and mix in bark, sand, or orchid soil. This creates many spaces for air to reach your roots and provides something for them to cling to. Also, add some horticultural charcoal or compost to incorporate organic material into the substrate.
Water
Watering must be done with care to prevent the quick development of root rot due to overwatering. However, under-watering should also be avoided as the Philodendron Tortum is still a tropical plant.
To know when to water, stick your finger about 2 inches into the soil. Only water again when the soil is completely dry.
Propagation
Stem Cuttings
To propagate your Philodendron Tortum through stem cuttings:
- Choose a healthy stem (each should have at least one node and, optionally, a few leaves).
- Cut below the node with a sterile tool.
- Place your stem cutting either in water or directly into your Philodendron soil.
- Optionally, use rooting hormones.
- Place your stem cutting in a warm location with plenty of indirect sunlight.
- After a few weeks, you should see roots.
Air Layering
Another method, that creates a clone of the plant retaining its characteristics, is air layering, often used in nurseries for propagating trees.
- Wound your plant using a sterile blade (make a cut about 2 inches long and 1-2 inches deep).
- Keep the wound open using a toothpick.
- Cover the wound with moist sphagnum moss and bind it if necessary.
- Optionally, apply rooting hormones to accelerate the process.
- Wrap the area with plastic wrap securely.
- After a month, roots should start to appear. Once they reach about 3 inches, the new plant can be separated and potted.
Temperature
As a tropical plant, the Philodendron Tortum prefers high temperatures, ideally above 20°C, with an optimum range of 23°C-27°C. While it can grow at 20°C, growth is slower and generally less robust. For cooler rooms, the Philodendron Verrucosum, which prefers temperatures between 15°C and 21°C, may be a better option.
Humidity
Tropical plants like the Philodendron Tortum not only prefer high temperatures but also high humidity. In its natural habitat, humidity can reach nearly 100%. However, in your home, aim for humidity levels above 60%, ideally between 70-85%. Regular ventilation can prevent fungus formation even in this humidity range.
Fertilizing
The Philodendron Tortum, like most Philodendrons, is a heavy feeder and requires plenty of nutrients. However, they are particularly sensitive to the salts in industrial fertilizers.
Therefore, it's important to use a high-quality fertilizer, preferably one specially designed for Philodendrons, and to apply it diluted in water to avoid root damage.
Follow your fertilizer's recommendations for frequency and amount. However, reduce fertilizing significantly in winter, as Philodendrons reduce their growth and need fewer nutrients during the colder months. During this time, fertilizing every 8 weeks is sufficient.
Want to Learn More About Philodendrons?
For further information, check out our article on Philodendrons. There, you'll find information about almost all Philodendron species and answers to more frequently asked questions.
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