Philodendron Squamiferum
- Tammy Johnson
- Feb 26, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Written and edited by Tammy 26th February 2023. Updated November 2025
Meet the Philodendron Squamiferum
If you’ve ever spotted an indoor plant with striking lobed leaves and curious red-fuzzy stems, you’ve likely met Philodendron Squamiferum. Native to the rainforests of Central and South America, it’s a tropical climbing beauty that brings an instant jungle vibe to any room.
Unlike many glossy-leaf philodendrons, this one has a personality, those furry petioles (stems) make it a total standout. Given the right light, warmth, and support to climb, it’ll reward you with lush growth and dramatic foliage.
How to Care for Your Philodendron Squamiferum
🪴 Light: Bright, indirect light is best. It will tolerate lower light but will grow slower and produce smaller leaves. Avoid harsh direct sun, which can scorch those velvety stems and delicate foliage.
💧 Water: Let the top few centimetres of soil dry between waterings. I find one 9-litre watering can of rainwater every 4–5 weeks (even less in winter) keeps mine perfectly happy. Always tip out excess water from the saucer, these guys dislike “wet feet.”
🌿 Feeding: During spring and summer, feed monthly with a quality indoor plant food or a dash of Seasol to support new leaf growth. Hold back during winter when growth slows.
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity: Warm and humid conditions mimic its native jungle home. Bathrooms, bright corners near east-facing windows, or areas with a humidifier are perfect.
📏 Growth & Support: This is a natural climber! Give it a sturdy moss pole or rustic branch to cling to. Mine’s now almost seven feet tall in a 52-litre ceramic pot, trained up a sanded tree branch, she’s a statement piece!
Styling & Personality
There’s something elegant about Philodendron squamiferum especially when dressed in fairy lights woven up the stems for soft evening ambience. It’s a bold yet low-maintenance plant that fits beautifully into modern or boho indoor spaces.
Common Problems & Tips
Drooping or crispy leaves? You’re likely underwatering or the air’s too dry.
Yellowing leaves? Ease back on watering, they hate soggy soil.
Spider mites or thrips? Keep humidity up and wipe leaves regularly. Neem oil can be a gentle deterrent.
Before You Buy- A Quick Word on Choosing the Right Plant
As a self-confessed plant junkie, I know the thrill of loading the car with leafy treasures, but a little research saves a lot of heartache (and wallet pain). Every plant comes from a particular environment, and success depends on how well you can replicate it. A cactus from the desert will never love a dark bathroom, just as a tropical philodendron won’t thrive in full sun. Match your plant to your space, and you’re halfway there.
💚Tips from Tammy's Lounge Room
My Philodendron Squamiferum has been with me for almost 7 years now, she puts out 4–5 new leaves every summer and still makes me smile every morning. Proof that once you understand what a plant needs, it will absolutely return the love.
Update: Mine now in 2025 at the time of updating this post she has reached the ceiling height. I have to keep cutting the leaders back as the alternative would be removing the ceiling to let her keep going up and my landlord might not appreciate that!
What’s your favourite indoor plant? Tell me below, I’d love to know what’s thriving in your space.
Happy gardening😘🌺
If you love my Philodendron take a quick peek at my Harefoot Fern😁
Do you want to know my favourite thing about walking into my bathroom every morning?... Revelling in the sheer beauty and vibrance of my Hares foot fern davallia canariensis.....
