I am an evergreen, climbing or trailing vine with a prolific growth habit. My stems can grow several feet long.My most iconic feature is my glossy, heart-shaped leaves that emerge a bright, lime green and mature to a deeper emerald. They are typically 5-10 cm long and grow alternately along thin, flexible stems.I produce aerial roots at the nodes, which help me cling to supports and absorb moisture and nutrients from the air.I am one of the most popular and forgiving houseplants in the world.

I am native to the tropical rainforests of Central America and the Caribbean.

I prefer moderately moist soil. Water me when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry.I am relatively drought-tolerant and will bounce back from occasional wilting, but I thrive with consistent moisture.Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Ensure my pot has good drainage.I appreciate average to high humidity but am very adaptable to normal home conditions. Brown leaf tips can indicate air that is too dry.Water with room-temperature water.

I am incredibly adaptable but thrive in bright, indirect light. This encourages faster growth and larger leaves.I am a champion of low-light conditions and can survive in areas with only artificial light, though my growth will be slower and the spaces between leaves (internodes) may become longer.Direct sun will scorch my leaves, causing pale, burnt patches. An east or north-facing window is ideal.

I prefer warm, stable temperatures between 18°C and 27°C.I am sensitive to cold drafts and temperatures below 13°C, which can stunt my growth and cause leaf drop.I am grown exclusively as a houseplant in temperate climates (USDA zones 10-12 if outdoors in shade).

I am the quintessential hanging basket plant, creating beautiful, flowing curtains of green. I also excel as a climber on a trellis, totem, or bookshelf.Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix.I like to be slightly root-bound. Repot in spring when roots circle the pot's bottom.Pinch back the growing tips regularly to encourage a bushier, fuller plant and prevent me from becoming leggy.

Feed me monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer.Reduce feeding to every 6-8 weeks in fall and winter.Over-fertilizing can cause salt buildup and leaf tip burn.

Scientific Name: Philodendron hederaceum (formerly P. scandens or P. cordatum)Common Names: Heartleaf Philodendron, Sweetheart Plant, Parlor IvyPlant Family: AraceaePlant Type: Evergreen climbing or trailing vine

Like all philodendrons, I contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. If chewed or ingested by cats, dogs, or humans, I can cause oral irritation, pain, swelling, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep me out of reach of pets and children.

I am an excellent air-purifying plant, recognized for removing common household VOCs like formaldehyde. My abundant foliage makes me quite effective at improving indoor air quality.