Philodendron plowmanii 'Watermelon' is a named clone of the terrestrial species native to Ecuador and Peru. While all plowmanii exhibit pleated, heart-shaped foliage and creeping rhizomes, the 'Watermelon' clone stands out for its exaggerated blistered texture and high-contrast interveinal striping—a pattern reminiscent of watermelon rind, especially under bright, diffused light.
This is a true plowmanii, not a hybrid or a mislabeled mamei. It creeps low to the substrate and produces leaves sequentially along a horizontal rhizome. The silver mottling in 'Watermelon' is broader and more irregular than the narrow central stripe found in mamei, and mature leaves develop pronounced ruffling at the petiole attachment—more sculptural than flat. Petioles are thick, slightly winged, and often flushed with maroon near the base.
If you're seeking the most dramatic leaf texture among creeping Philodendrons, this clone earns its spot.
Environmental Requirements & Care
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Light: Moderate to bright indirect light (100–250 μmol/m²/s). Too much light flattens the blistering; too little light mutes contrast and stalls leaf expansion.
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Substrate: Requires a well-aerated, fast-draining mix. Our preferred blend includes coco coir, perlite, orchid bark, horticultural charcoal, and a light touch of vermiculite to retain humidity without soaking the rhizome.
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Watering: Water when the top 2" of the substrate dries. Always avoid wetting the rhizome directly—this is the plant’s main point of vulnerability. Pour around the rhizome, not over it.
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Humidity & Temperature: Performs best at 70–85% RH, with consistent warmth (above 65°F / 18°C). Growth will slow significantly below 60°F. High humidity improves both texture and blistering.
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Feeding: Use a balanced, low-salt fertilizer monthly. Avoid excess nitrogen—while it may increase leaf size, it often comes at the cost of detail and surface definition.
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Growth Habit: This is a crawler, not a climber. It grows best in a wide pot or shallow tray that allows the rhizome to move forward. Without space to extend, growth will stall or circle.
Exact Plant Option (Pictured):
This plowmanii 'Watermelon' is rooted in a 4" pot, showing strong ruffling, blistered texture, and healthy forward rhizome growth. You’ll receive the plant in the photos.
Grower’s Choice Option:
Also rooted in a 4" pot. Each plant is selected from the same 'Watermelon' clone batch for leaf texture, color contrast, and active new growth. All are creeping and well-established.