Philodendron Mamei, or as they are also known as the Blotched Philodendron, is a unique looking Philodendron that is easier to care for than some of the other types of Philodendrons. The Philodendron Mamei is one of the more rare Philodendrons that you may come across, it is not talked about much in the plant collector scene. In this care guide, we go over everything that you need to know about Philodendron Mamei Care.
Quick Overview on Philodendron Mamei Care
Scientific Name | Philodendron mamei André |
Light Requirements | Bright indirect light, no long periods of direct sunlight. |
Watering Needs | Water once the soil has dried out. |
Temperatures | 65°- 80°F (18°C – 27°C) |
Humidity | 60% or more is ideal, never below 40%. |
Fertilizer | Fertilize once a month during the spring and summer. |
Soil | Well-draining, bark based soil medium. |
Toxicity | Toxic to both cats and dogs. |
Philodendron Mamei Origins
Originally the Mamei is from Ecuador. It can be found growing on the eastern slopes in the Andes in the understory of the forests.
It is also called the Blotched Philodendron by some, this is due to the colors on the leaves.
Philodendron Mamei Scientific Name:
Philodendron mamei André
Watering Needs
You should water your Mamei once the soil has dried out. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so make sure to pay attention to the moisture in the soil before you water the plant.
Philodendron Mamei Light Requirements
The Philodendron Mamei prefers bright indirect light. In its natural habitat, it grows in the understory of the forest where it is shaded by trees. Direct sunlight for an extended time can lead to damage to its leaves.
Philodendron Mamei Temperature
Temperatures between 65°- 80°F (18°C – 27°C) is the best temperature range for the Mamei. Always keep the temperature above 55°F (13°C) to avoid damage to the plant from it getting too cold.
Humidity Needs
The Philodendron Mamei loves humidity like many Philodendrons do. Keeping the humidity above 60% is ideal for these plants. They are able to tolerate a bit lower humidity, but always keep the humidity above 40%.
Fertilizer
A liquid organic houseplant fertilizer is best to use for the Mamei. Fertilize your plant once each month during the spring and summer.
Philodendron Mamei Growth
The Philodendron Mamei is a crawler and not a climbing plant. They can grow up to 3 feet tall but will start to spread out and crawl along the surface of the soil.
Pots
Since the Mamei is a crawling Philodendron, long and narrow pots work best so the plant can have an area of soil to crawl along.
Soil
A well draining soil mix that is mixed with bark works well for Philodendron Mameis.
Philodendron Mamei Propagation
The Mamei can be propagated via cuttings. When taking a cutting from your plant make sure to get a node (where the leaf will meet the stem). Once you have your cutting you can put it in a small pot with a breathable mediums such as sphagnum moss and keep it moist. You could also use leca for rooting your cutting instead of sphagnum moss.
Toxicity
As with all Philodendrons, the Philodendron Mamei is toxic to pets (both cats and dogs). If you do have furry friends keep your Mamei in an area that they are not able to reach it.
Where to Find Philodendron Mamei Plants for Sale
The Philodendron Mamei at times might be found at local plant shops. But since this is not as popular as other Philodendron plants you will probably have better luck on popular plant marketplaces online such as Etsy.
Price Range
Currently, small rooted cuttings of Philodendron Mamei run between $50 and $100 most of the time. This can change as the popularity of the plant changes.