Cultivar guide · Philodendron gloriosum
Philodendron Gloriosum
Large, heart-shaped velvety leaves with bright white or pink veining against a dark olive-green surface. A creeping (not climbing) philodendron — the rhizome grows horizontally along the soil rather than up a pole.
Family
Araceae
Classification
species
Mature size
12–18 inches tall (it creeps horizontally); leaves 12–18 inches at maturity
Pet safety
toxic to cats and dogs
Care at a glance
- Light
- Bright indirect light — never direct sun, which burns the velvety surface
- Water
- Water when top 2 inches of soil are dry; chunky aroid mix is essential
- Humidity
- 60% or higher
- Temperature
- 65–80°F (18–27°C)
How to tell it apart from look-alikes
Easily confused with Philodendron Pastazanum (climbs vs. creeps) and Philodendron Mamei (similar size but has silver variegation between veins, not just white veins). Always check for the creeping rhizome to confirm gloriosum.
Pet safety: Philodendron Gloriosum is toxic to cats and dogs per the ASPCA.
Botanical reference: Kew Plants of the World Online — Philodendron gloriosum
For full care of the parent species, see the Philodendron care guide.