Care Guide for Black Velvet Philodendron – Tips for Growing this Beautiful Plant

Everything You Need to Know About the Black Velvet Philodendron

The black velvet philodendron is a popular houseplant known for its striking velvety leaves. If you’ve searched for information on this plant, you likely have several questions. This comprehensive guide will answer all of your questions so you can care for your black velvet philodendron like a pro.

What Is a Black Velvet Philodendron?

The black velvet philodendron (Philodendron bipinnatifidum) is a type of vine-like philodendron plant characterized by its deep purple-black leaves. Native to tropical forests in South America, this philodendron thrives well as a houseplant in indoor conditions. Its velvety leaves emerge burgundy in color and deepen to a rich purple-black as they mature.

How Big Do Black Velvet Philodendrons Get?

Black velvet philodendrons are climbing vines that can grow quite large if provided with support. As houseplants, they will reach heights between 3 to 6 feet tall. Their vines can grow indefinitely if given a tall moss pole or trellis to climb. Over time, mature plants may produce leaves up to 10 inches long. So these beauties do require some vertical space to spread out their gorgeous foliage.

How Fast Do Black Velvet Philodendrons Grow?

The growth rate of black velvet philodendrons depends on cultural conditions, but on average they will increase in size by a few inches per month. In ideal lighting and with regular fertilizer, these vines can see steady growth throughout spring and summer. Their growth may slow during fall and winter when indoor temperatures and daylight hours decrease. So give your plant time – within one year, you should notice a dramatic increase in the number and size of its leaves.

What Kind of Light Does a Black Velvet Philodendron Need?

To thrive, black velvet philodendrons require medium to bright, indirect light. Direct afternoon or western sun can scorch their velvety leaves. East- or north-facing windows provide the perfect growing conditions. I have found mine grows best in my bathroom which gets filtered morning sunlight. If light levels are low, leaves may be smaller or pale in color. Playing around with placement will help you determine the ideal spot for your plant’s needs.

How to Water a Black Velvet Philodendron

When it comes to watering, philodendrons prefer to stay on the drier side. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry completely between waterings. Over-watering is a common cause of root rot in these plants, which leads to wilting and yellowing leaves. From my experience, watering once every 7-10 days is sufficient indoors. In summer months when light and heat are higher, you may need to water a bit more frequently, every 5-7 days. Feel free to confirm soil dryness with your finger before watering again.

What Kind of Soil Does a Black Velvet Philodendron Need?

For soil, philodendrons thrive in a well-draining potting mix. Use a soil designed specifically for houseplants or make your own by mixing potting soil with perlite or orchid bark in a 1:1 ratio. This adds drainage and aeration to prevent soil from getting waterlogged. Replenish soil each year as it breaks down. A well-watered and fertilized philodendron root system can become pot-bound quickly if soil quality diminishes.

How to Fertilize a Black Velvet Philodendron

Black velvet philodendrons are heavy feeders who will reward you with faster growth when provided regular balanced fertilizer during their active growing periods. I have seen great results using an all-purpose liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength every 2-4 weeks during spring and summer. Discontinue feeding in fall and winter when growth slows. Make sure to flush soil well with plain water between fertilizing to avoid salt build-up.

How to Prune a Black Velvet Philodendron

Pruning your philodendron is an easy way to shape its growth habit and control its size as a houseplant. Regularly remove leggy vines to encourage more compact, bushy growth close to the soil surface or support pole. Cut stems back by 1/3 using clean, sharp pruners or scissors just above a node. Leaves may also be pruned as desired for aesthetic purposes. Cut or torn leaves should be removed to promote air circulation and prevent disease.

How to Propagate Black Velvet Philodendron

Philodendrons are quite simple to propagate from stem or leaf cuttings! When pruning, simply place 3-4 inch stem cuttings in a glass of water and wait for roots to emerge from the nodes over 4-6 weeks. Once established with a good root system, transplant your new plantlet to soil. You can also try rooting leaf cuttings with 1-2 healthy leaf stalks – place the petiole end directly in moist soil. Once rooted, your propagated plants can be potted up individually as gifts or to grow your collection. It’s very rewarding!

Common Pests and Diseases of Black Velvet Philodendron

In general, black velvet philodendrons are quite low maintenance and resistant to issues. However, overwatered plants may develop root rot. Watch out also for signs of pests like spider mites which can cause stippling on leaves. Isolate any affected plants and treat immediately with neem oil or insecticide. If conditions are optimal, your philodendron should remain healthy for years! Proper care and monitoring are key to prevent and catch problems early.

Final Tips for Growing Black Velvet Philodendrons

1. Choose a well-draining potting mix and container with drainage holes.
2. Provide medium to bright, indirect filtered light for lush foliage.
3. Water when top soil is dry and feed monthly in spring/summer.
4. Prune regularly to encourage full, compact growth.
5. Use cuttings to propagate your plant and share with friends!

I hope this comprehensive guide has answered any questions you had about caring for your stunning black velvet philodendron. Feel free to experiment with different conditions to see how your plant responds best. With some TLC, it will reward you with breathtaking purple leaves for years to come. Happy growing!

Black Velvet Philodendron Care Table

FAQ

1. What kind of plant is a black velvet philodendron?

   The black velvet philodendron is basically a tropical plant from the aroid family. It has dark, glossy green leaves with deep purple or black veins that sort of make it look velvety.

2. How do you care for a black velvet philodendron?

   To care for this plant, you’ll need to water it when the soil dries out but not let it sit in soaked soil. Give it medium light, maybe near a east or west window. At the same time, it can’t handle full sun either. You’ll also want to occasionally feed it with fertilizer during the growing season. On the other hand, it’s pretty low maintenance otherwise.

3. How fast does a black velvet philodendron grow?

   The growth rate of black velvet philodendrons can vary a lot depending on different factors. Generally though, in ideal conditions with plenty of light and moisture, it may put on a few inches of new growth per year. However, if conditions are less than ideal, it may only grow an inch or less. So its growth pace appears to depend on the care it receives.

4. Does the black velvet philodendron produce flowers?

   Surprisingly, though it has an interesting leaf pattern, the black velvet philodendron is not known for flowering. In fact, most varieties of philodendrons produce tiny inconspicuous flowers that you’ll almost never see. So if you’re dreaming of an indoor plant with showy blooms, this may not be the one for you. On the other hand, it offers amazing foliage instead!

   

5. What types of places is the black velvet philodendron suited for?

   This plant adapts well to various indoor settings. It makes a great houseplant for offces, homes, or areas that get medium to low light. You’ll sometimes spot them in malls, stores, or other commercial spaces too. They basically thrive in humid environments found inside buildings. Maybe outdoors in tropical climates also? But is it worth the risk of pests or weather damage there? Your best bet is probably just inside.

6. How difficult is it really to care for a black velvet philodendron?

   Most sources rate the care difficulty of black velvet philodendrons as quite easy, maybe a 1 or 2 out of 5. As long as you meet its basic needs of moderate water, humidity and lighting, it’s pretty tough. Just keep soil from sitting soaked. To be honest, many houseplants are way harder. People often claim this is one of the most forgiving types. But does that make it boring? Perhaps – yet its striking looks sure wow guests!