Read this Dragon Tail Philodendron Care and Growing Guide to Learn how to nurture this stunning plant with this comprehensive post.
Dragon Tail Philodendron can be a lush green addition to your indoor garden. Read what kind of growing conditions it prefers for healthy growth.
Botanical Name: Philodendron bipinnatifidum ‘Dragon Tail’
Dragon Tail Philodendron Profile
Dragon Tail Philodendron is a tropical plant from the Araceae family. It’s originally from South America, particularly Brazil and Bolivia. The plant gets its name from its long, wavy, glossy green leaves that resemble a dragon’s tail.
When grown indoors, it usually reaches a height of about 2 to 3 feet, while in its native outdoor environment, it can grow up to 5 feet tall. The leaves are approximately 6 to 12 inches long, with deep lobes and a shiny, leathery texture. They are arranged alternately along the stems.
The easy maintenance and low care of the Dragon Tail Philodendron make it a favorite among indoor plant enthusiasts.
How to Grow Dragon Tail Philodendron
Choose a stem with at least one leaf node and a few healthy leaves. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to make a clean cut just below a leaf node. The cutting should be around 4-6 inches in length. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few leaves at the top of the cutting. Allow the cutting to air dry for a few hours. This helps to prevent rotting when the cutting is planted.
Dip the cut end of the cutting in a rooting hormone powder (optional). Prepare a pot with a well-draining potting mix. You can also use a mix of perlite and peat moss. Plant the cuttings in a pot and press the soil around the cutting to hold it in place. Keep the potted cutting in a warm and humid location with bright, indirect light.
You can cover the cutting with a plastic bag or a clear plastic dome to create a mini greenhouse effect. Water the cutting sparingly to keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy. Overwatering can lead to rot. After a few weeks to a couple of months, the cutting should start developing roots.
Once the cutting forms a good root system, you can transplant it into a larger pot with regular care for a mature Dragon Tail Philodendron.
Ideal Growing Conditions for Dragon Tail Philodendron
Sunlight
This plant prefers bright, indirect light. Place it near a window with filtered sunlight or a few feet away from a window with direct sun. East or west-facing windows are ideal. Avoid harsh noon sunlight to prevent leaf burn. Also, the plant should be rotated regularly to ensure even growth.
Soil
Dragon Tail Philodendron prefers well-draining soil that retains some moisture but doesn’t become soggy. A mix of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss works well. Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent overwatering.
TIP: Repot every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and provide essential nutrients.
Water
Water your Dragon Tail Philodendron when the top inch of soil becomes dry to the touch. Use room temperature water and ensure the pot has drainage holes to avoid root issues. Reduce watering during winter. Too much water results in yellow leaves, while too little leads to wilting. Boost humidity by misting, especially in dry environments or heated spaces.
Temperature and Humidity
Dragon Tail Philodendron does well in temperatures between 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Maintain moderate humidity levels of around 40-60%. Avoid drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations. In drier conditions, humidity is increased by misting the plant or placing it on a tray with water and pebbles.
Dragon Tail Philodendron Care Tips
Fertlizer
Choose a balanced liquid fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, and dilute it to half its potency. During its active growth in spring and summer, feed every 4-6 weeks. Reduce during dormancy (fall and winter), fertilizing every 6-8 weeks. Always water the plant before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn.
Pruning
Pruning helps maintain the plant’s shape and health. Trim yellowing or damaged leaves at their base to encourage new growth. If the plant becomes leggy, trim back longer stems to promote bushier growth. Regularly remove any dead or wilted foliage to prevent pest and disease issues. Pruning also helps manage the plant’s size and appearance, keeping it vibrant and lush.
Staking
To make your Dragon Tail Philodendron climb, use a tall stick filled with moss or coconut fiber (you can buy or create one). Put the stick behind the plant and tie the stems to it with string or stockings. The plant will grow upwards, and its roots might reach the stick if you water or mist it. You can also use a wireframe or bamboo poles to help the stems stand tall.
Pests and Diseases
Dragon Tail Philodendron is prone to pests like spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, and fungal diseases causing leaf spots. Ensure regular checks for issues, isolate new plants temporarily, and maintain plant hygiene.
Treat pests with neem oil or insecticidal soap and improve ventilation to prevent diseases. Adjust watering to avoid root rot or wilting.