Features

The Philodendron melanochrysum is a houseplant known for the velvet texture of its leaves and light veins and its leaves that turn from a bronzy, reddish-brown color to a light to dark shade of green. The leaves that look like luxurious fabric for a decorative pillow make this plant an absolute must-have.

Variegata version of melanochrysum

The variegata version also has the special feature of having its leaves change like a chameleon as the leaves age. The color pulls in slowly. Patterns of the variegata are always unique and can be orange, yellow (aurea) and light green colors. Moreover, the variegata is absolutely not difficult to keep in the plant with sufficient light, making it a suitable plant for the beginner.

Appearance and leaf length

The leaves have a luxurious appearance that can be compared to plants such as the Philodendron Spiritus Sancti, Anthurium veitchii and the Anthurium warocqueanum (The Queen Anthurium). The leaves usually grow only 25-30 centimeters long when grown, but in the wild the leaves can grow much larger.

Origin and history

Originally, the "common" melanochrysum comes from the Andean region of Colombia. This South American houseplant has been nicknamed "black gold" thanks to its unusual dark green velvet-like leaves due to the color and texture of the leaves of a mature plant.

Synonyms and prices

A synonym of this plant is Philodendron andreanum. In the late 19th century, this plant was already cultivated outside South America under the synonym andreanum. Another synonym from around the same period was Philodendron grandidens. Growers and collectors of this plant received several awards for its beauty at exhibitions in the late 19th century due to its unusual and luxurious appearance.

Care tips

Place the Philodendron melanochrysum in a bright spot with strong filtered sunlight and make sure that the plant is kept at a humidity of at least 60-65%. A humidity of 75-85% combined with good air flow (no drafts) is something the plant really likes. For optimal growth, the temperature during the growth period can drop from 23-26 degrees Celsius during the day to 16-18 degrees Celsius at night. Nevertheless, this plant also does well in a more stable room temperature. Allow at least two-thirds to three-quarters of the pot to dry before re-potting. By allowing the plant to climb, this rare Philodendron more easily produces larger leaves.

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