No home is complete without a few indoor plants, especially one like the Philodendron Golden Dragon. This indoor plant isn’t scarce but is among the list of some of the rarest indoor plants only because it can be hard to find. This eye-catching creeping vine has a beautiful mix of green and golden leaves and is an excellent beginner-friendly houseplant.
The Philodendron Golden Dragon is a tropical vining indoor plant that thrives in a well-lit space. They are easy to care for and vigorous growers. The Philodendron Golden Dragon is mainly kept as an indoor plant due to its ability to remove pollutants and aesthetic appeal.
The Philodendron Golden Dragon originated in North and South America but is spread worldwide across tropical regions. The Philodendron Golden Dragon thrives in warmer climates and does not handle the cold well. This evergreen plant does not lose its color during winter and is drought resistant, requiring little care and maintenance.
What Is The Botanical Name Of Philodendron Golden Dragon?
The Philodendron Golden Dragon does not have a botanical name but is a hybrid plant created from the Philodendron bipennifolium. The name Golden Dragon comes from the shape of the leaves and its sometimes gold coloring, which looks like a dragon’s head.
What Is The Common Name For Philodendron Golden Dragon?
The common name for the Philodendron Golden Dragon is Lime Fiddle, Philodendron Lime Fiddle, Philodendron Camouflage, and Philodendron Minimum. However, many people know this plant by the name Philodendron Golden Dragon. Common terms like Lime Fiddle may only be used in some instances or in certain parts of the world.
Philodendron Golden Dragon Description
The Philodendron Golden Dragon is a tropical plant classified by its intense dark green leaves with yellow-colored streaks in some varieties. The Philodendron Golden Dragon can grow as high as 6 feet when kept as a houseplant. However, this plant is toxic to humans and animals if sap from the stems or leaves is ingested.
The Philodendron Golden Dragon has uniquely shaped leaves and attracts many plant owners due to its beauty and minimal care requirements. However, as a warm-season plant, it requires a humid environment to grow in. It doesn’t tolerate abrupt temperature changes well or icy weather.
The Philodendron can be kept as an indoor and outdoor plant; however, most people prefer to keep it as a houseplant. If regularly cared for, your Philodendron Golden Dragon will last a good couple of years.
The Philodendron Golden Dragon’s Growing Preferences
Although the Philodendron Golden Dragon requires little care, there are a few growing preferences you should be aware of when keeping a Philodendron Golden Dragon as a houseplant. These include light requirements, temperature, watering, and soil requirements.
Light
Philodendron Golden Dragon plants need bright but indirect sunlight to grow. Add a support system to help keep your plant upright and supported. Keeping your Philodendron Golden Dragon close to a well-lit window is ideal, especially if your plant is still small.
If grown outside, plenty of indirect sunlight will allow your Philodendron Golden Dragon to grow bigger and have more glossy leaves.
Temperature
The best temperature for the Philodendron Golden Dragon is between 68 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Any temperature under 60 degrees can affect the growth and health of your Philodendron Golden Dragon. Humidity levels should also be kept high, and your plant should be misted daily.
Watering
Watering should only be done when the top layer of soil is dry. Over and underwatering should be avoided. The Philodendron Golden Dragon prefers moist soil for optimum growth. Signs of overwatering include yellow leaves and fungus growth, whereas underwatering yields dry and brown leaves.
Soil
The Philodendron Golden Dragon needs well-draining soil. A potting mix with perlite is the best for growing a healthy Philodendron Golden Dragon. Some standard potting mixes for Philodendron plants can also be used when potting your plant.
Tips On Caring For Philodendron Golden Dragon
If you’re looking for a healthy Philodendron Plant, taking care of it is critical. Unfortunately, many Philodendron Golden Dragon owners assume that because it requires so little care, it’s okay to neglect it and let it grow on its own. However, this usually negatively impacts the growth of your Philodendron and could even cause it to die.
The following tips can be used when caring for your Philodendron Golden Dragon.
- Prune your Philodendron Golden Dragon when you see old leaves to encourage new growth
- Keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering.
- Fertilize your Philodendron once a month with a liquid fertilizer
- Use a trellis or stake for your plant to grow on/climb up
- Use a well-aerated potting mix
- Repot every 1-2 years to a bigger pot
- Make sure your Philodendron Golden Dragon gets enough sunlight.
Common Issues And Troubleshooting Philodendron Golden Dragon
Philodendron Golden Dragon is a resilient plant that is not prone to disease or pests unless neglected and unhealthy. The most common issues are the leaves that stop growing or the change in color of the leaves.
Philodendron Golden Dragon Stops Producing Leaves
When the Philodendron Golden Dragon goes dormant, it may stop growing leaves. However, the vine of the plant will continue to grow. This is an expected slowing of the growth phase that a philodendron goes through during the winter.
Golden Streaks Turned Red On Philodendron Golden Dragon
If the golden spots or streaks on your Philodendron Golden Dragon start to turn red, it may be a fungus. You will need to treat the Philodendron Golden Dragon with a suitable insecticide to ensure that the fungus is taken care of. You should also consider repotting to provide the best chances of growth for your Philodendron Golden Dragon.
How To Repot Philodendron Golden Dragon
The Philodendron Golden Dragon can be repotted any time of year, but it’s best to report it in the springtime. Spring is the growing season, and it’s when most plants come out of the hibernation period. Repotting should be done every 1-3 years, depending on how fast your plant grows.
Steps to report your Philodendron Golden Dragon
- Prepare the new pot. The new pot should have potting soil and some fertilizer and be an adequate size for your Philodendron Golden Dragon.
- Move the Philodendron plant from the old pot to the new one. Move your plant from the old pot to the new one by loosening the soil around it and carefully removing it from its existing pot to the new pot.
- Water. Once planted in the new pot, give you Philodendron Golden Dragon sufficient water.
How To Propagate Philodendron Golden Dragon
Philodendron Golden Dragon is easily propagated by using stem cuttings. Propagation is very easy and only involves a few steps. These include:
- Put on gloves. Wear gloves to protect yourself from the Philodendron Golden Dragon, as the leaves and sap can be toxic.
- Select a healthy stem. Choose a healthy stem for propagation.
- Cut. Cut a 4-inch stem that is growing under a leaf node.
- Prepare a pot. Prepare a pot or container with fresh soil and plant your stem.
Conclusion
The Philodendron Golden Dragon is a beautiful houseplant that is easy to care for and unique. Its stunning leaves and vine structure make it suitable to hang from baskets in your home or to be kept in pots along with your other house plants. The Philodendron Golden Dragon makes a great addition to any home. Still, caution should be taken as it can be toxic to humans and animals.