Philodendron scandens is a classic trailing indoor plant loved for its soft, heart-shaped green leaves and graceful cascading growth. Fast-growing and forgiving, it is an excellent choice for adding lush greenery to shelves, hanging displays and elevated planters.
Naturally a climber, it can be left to trail beautifully from its hanging basket or trained upwards onto a support. Easy to care for and adaptable to a range of indoor conditions, it is an ideal plant for beginners and experienced plant lovers alike.
Quick highlights
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- Classic heart-shaped green foliage
- Beautiful trailing or climbing growth
- Fast-growing and easy to care for
- Adaptable to indoor conditions
- Perfect for hanging displays and shelves
Care guide
Light: Bright, indirect light is best. Tolerates medium light but growth may be slower.
Water: Water when the top 2–3cm of the growing medium feels dry. Avoid allowing the roots to remain waterlogged.
Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity but adapts well to normal indoor conditions.
Temperature: Best between 18–28°C. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 15°C.
Soil: Use a loose, well-draining aroid mix with good airflow around the roots.
Feeding: Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced indoor plant fertiliser.
Size and growth
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- Current pot size: 20cm hanging basket.
- A fast-growing trailing or climbing plant that can develop long cascading stems when allowed to grow freely.
Moss pole tip: Providing a moss pole encourages the plant to climb and develop larger foliage.
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- Keep the support slightly moist to encourage aerial roots to attach.
- Secure stems loosely rather than tying them tightly.
- Guide new growth towards the support as the plant develops.
Styling and placement ideas
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- Allow the stems to cascade naturally from a hanging position, bookshelf or elevated planter for a lush trailing display.
- Alternatively, train it upwards on a moss pole or support to highlight its natural climbing habit.
Plant highlights
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- Heart-shaped leaves create a soft, classic appearance.
- Naturally grows as both a climber and trailer.
- Easy to propagate from stem cuttings.
Pet/child safety
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- Toxic if ingested. Keep away from pets and young children.
