Philodendron Jose Buono
Big-leaf drama with a botanical twist.
Philodendron ‘Jose Buono’ is a large-leaf climbing aroid with bold, high-contrast cream-to-white variegation that often takes over entire sections of the leaf. Expect long, paddle-shaped foliage with asymmetrical fenestrations and fluid, rippling edges that get more dramatic as the plant matures.
Believed to be a hybrid of uncertain origin, Jose Buono is prized for producing large leaves (up to 2 feet long in mature setups) and maintaining relatively stable chimeric variegation over time. Some leaves will lean green, some white, and others offer the kind of split pattern that gets framed on collector feeds. It thrives with bright, indirect light and consistent care.
Despite its size and showiness, it’s not demanding. It roots fast, climbs steadily, and responds well to aroid basics. This is a rare tropical indoor foliage plant built for collectors—but forgiving enough for those still dialing in their setup.
All plants ship fully rooted in aroid potting mix, and we offer the following formats:
-
Exact Plant – 4" Pot
What you see is what ships. Rooted, stable, and already expressing mature leaf shape and variegation. -
Grower’s Choice – 4" Pot
A well-established, rooted plant from the same genetic line. All show visible variegation, though pattern and intensity may vary from leaf to leaf due to natural chimeric expression. -
Grower’s Choice – 2.5" Pot
A younger rooted plant with confirmed variegation. Fewer leaves and smaller size, but still from the same genetic line. Ideal for growers who like to size up their own plants or want a lower entry point.
All grower’s choice plants are vetted for color and root health. We don’t ship guesses.
Philodendron ‘Jose Buono’ Care Overview
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Light | Bright, indirect light. Direct sun may scorch pale sections. |
| Humidity | 60–80% preferred. Will tolerate household humidity but grows faster when higher. |
| Watering | Allow the top 1–2” of substrate to dry between waterings. |
| Substrate | Well-draining aroid mix: peat, perlite, orchid bark, charcoal. |
| Temperature | 65–85°F. Keep above 60°F for consistent growth. |
| Feeding | Balanced or nitrogen-lean fertilizer once a month during active growth. |
| Growth Habit | Climber. Benefits from vertical support. |
| Pests to Watch | Spider mites and thrips. Wipe leaves regularly and inspect white tissue zones. |
Shipping Note:
All Jose Buono plants ship rooted in soil and are carefully packed. Due to their broad leaf shape and delicate variegation, minor cosmetic damage in transit is normal—this may include edge bruising, yellowing, or small tears. These are not signs of a health issue and do not qualify as damage. Soil may shift during shipping and can be easily resettled. As long as roots are healthy and conditions remain stable, new growth will follow.
Blog posts
What Is an Aroid?
Aroids evolved to solve the hardest problem in the rainforest—how to live with too little light and too much competition. The result? Some of the most beautiful plants on Earth.
How to Keep Variegated Leaves Through Winter
Winter light can turn your prized variegated leaves solid green. It isn’t bad care—it’s survival. Learn why plants shift their patterns when days get shorter, and how steady light and warmth can help keep the white in your Monstera or Philodendron from fading away.
Can Plants Hear Touch?
Plants don’t have ears, but they aren’t deaf to their surroundings. From sensing a fingertip brush to detecting the vibrations of chewing insects, plants register touch and sound through finely tuned cellular systems — and even change how they grow in response.