The Burle Marx Philodendron is an exotic looking tropical houseplant that is not as rare as you might think. It is a common tropical plant that you can find in many big box stores and local plant nurseries near you. If you have recently gotten one of these beautiful Philodendrons then this is the guide you need to know everything about how to take care of a Philodendron Burle Marx.
Origin of the Burle Marx Philodendron
The Burle Marx comes from tropical forests in parts of South America. Mainly Northern Brazil, Colombia, and Ecuador.
The Burle Marx is a climbing Philodendron that uses its aerial roots to climb up the very tall trees of these tropical forests.
Philodendron Burle Marx Scientific Name:
- Philodendron imbe
- Philodendron burle-marxii
Quick Overview of How to Care for a Philodendron Burle Marx
| Scientific Name | Philodendron burle-marxii, Philodendron imbe |
| Light Requirements | Bright indirect light. |
| Watering Needs | Water once the top 2 inches of soil is dry. |
| Temperature | 60°F – 75°F (15°C to 24°C) |
| Humidity | 50% to 70% |
| Soil | Well draining bark-based soil. (Aroid mix) |
| Fertilizer | Liquid-based fertilizer, high in nitrogen. Fertilize once a month. |
| Toxicity | Toxic to Pets |
Philodendron Burle Marx Watering Needs
Water your Burle Marx once the top 2 inches of soil has dried.
The Burle Marx can be picky with watering. Some people allow the soil to completely dry out while others find that they start to get problems with their plant if they let it get too dry.
During the spring and summer months when the plant is growing the most you might find that you need to water it more often.
You do not want to overwater these Philodendrons. This can lead to root rot easily.
Philodendron Burle Marx Light Requirements
Bright indirect light is best for the Burle Marx. These plants do not do well in low light conditions, even though this is often claimed.
Filter any direct sunlight to avoid damage to the leaves.
Temperature and Humidity
Optimal temperatures for a Burle Marx Philodendron are between 60°F – 75°F (15°C to 24°C).
Humidity should stay within the range of 50% to 70% for optimal growth. Lower humidity levels can be tolerated by these plants but you will see slower growth and the plant will need to be watered more often.
Philodendron Burle Marx Soil
An aroid potting mix or bark-based medium is the best type of soil to use for a Burle Marx plant.
You want to be sure that the soil you choose drains well and does not retain a lot of moisture.
Fertilizer
A liquid houseplant fertilizer that is high in nitrogen works best for a Burle Marx Philodendron.
Fertilize once a month in the spring and summer.
Burle Marx Toxicity and Pets
The Philodendron Burle Marx is toxic to both cats and dogs, like all Philodendron plants.