Rhaphidophora decursiva ( Creeping Philodendron ) is a perennial climber that is native to humid and warm regions of southern China and India. Like Monsteras, the Creeping Philodendron is a popular indoor houseplant and ornamental. They are fast growing, easy to maintain and don’t require much watering.
Suitable for Sub-Tropical and Tropical climates or indoors in Temperate zones.
Rhaphidophora decursiva is also commonly known as the Dragon’s Tail, Mini Monstera, Philodendron Ginny and Kruipende Philodendron.
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Growth
Rhaphidophora decursiva is a climbing perennial evergreen that grows to a maximum height of 18 metres (60 feet) in its natural habitat but is a more compact 2 metres (7 feet) when grown indoors. Creeping Philodendron thrives in warm and humid conditions with a soil that is well draining but retains a little bit of moisture.
Best results are achieved when the plants are provided a trellis or support structure to climb on but isn’t necessary for the first growing season. Creeping Philodendron’s do poorly in cold temperatures and will suffer damage if exposed to temperatures less than 10°C / 50°F.
If exposed to harsh direct sunlight the leaves can be burned and so it is recommended to position the plant where they receive the softer morning sun or plenty of bright but indirect sunlight.
For additional information visit our Growers Notes page or the list of the best gardening websites or check out the article about how to use your waste at home as a natural fertiliser.
FAMILY:
Araceae
CLIMATE:
Sub-Tropical and Tropical
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
15 to 30°C / 59 to 86°F
SOIL TYPE:
Moist well-draining but not waterlogged.
LOCATION:
Part-Sun – Part Shade
HEIGHT:
Up to 18 metres (60 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 1.8 metres (6 feet)
pH:
5.5-6.5
GROWTH TYPE:
Perennial Climbing Evergreen.
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Low
POLLINATION:
Pollinated by Bees.
MATURITY:
2-4 years
GERMINATION RATES:
55-70%
GERMINATION TIME:
Soak for 24 hours and then 3-4 weeks at 20°C to 25°C / 68 to 77°F
SEEDS PER GRAM:
Approximately 1400
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
No
WEED POTENTIAL:
No
EDIBLE:
No
SEED STORAGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage – 4°C (Fridge). 2 years
FACTS ABOUT RHAPHIDOPHORA DECURSIVA (Creeping Philodendron)
The whole plant of Rhaphidophora decursiva is toxic to humans and pets and should not be consumed.
Creeping Philodendrons are also useful at purifying toxins from the air.
Some experts suggest repotting Creeping Philodendrons once a year to allow the roots more space to grow and to loosen up the soil which can sometimes become too compacted.
