Mica

Philodendron scandens 'Micans'

Velvet leaf philodendron

• 
  Easy care
• 
  Most light conditions

• Mica likes...
  • 
    Regular watering

    Test the top two inches of soil with your finger and if it comes out dry, you know it’s time to water. Try not to let your plant dry out completely or leave her sitting in water. Consistency is key.

  • 
    Medium light

    Like Phil, Mica can tolerate some shade but really enjoys bright, indirect light. A sunny room away from the window would be ideal.

  • 
    Humidity

    If you want Mica to thrive, pop her in your bathroom or kitchen, rooms that are naturally higher in humidity. Otherwise give her a regular mist.

• Quick facts

  Botanical name

  Philodendron scandens ‘Micans’

  Nickname

  Velvet leaf philodendron

  Plant type

  Indoor evergreen

  Plant height (including pot)

  30-40cm

  Pet/baby safe

  Toxic if eaten

  Air purifying

  Yes

  Nursery pot size

  15cm

• About Philodendron scandens ‘Micans’

  In its natural home in Central America and the Caribbean, Philodendron scandens is a fast-growing climber, reaching heights of up to six metres. You’ll find it hanging out on the trunks of other trees and trailing down from the forest canopy. This gives you good clues as to what your plant needs to survive: high humidity, regular water, something to climb up or trail down from, and a warm spot away from draughts.

  Philodendron scandens ‘Micans’  is a communicative plant and will tell you what it needs with its soft, velvety, heart shaped leaves. If it’s thirsty, its leaves will droop and curl inwards. If you notice faded leaves or crispy edges, it’s probably getting too much direct sunlight.  The colour of its leaves will also vary depending on how much light it gets. More light, and the leaves will keep their reddish hue, less light, and they’ll turn a deeper green.

  Did you know?

  The name philodendron translates from the Greek wordsphiloor ‘loving’ anddendronmeaning ‘tree’. This ‘tree loving’ association could describe the plant’s heart-shaped leaves, but it’s more likely a description of its growth habit, growing up and in trees.