Philodendron Bipennifolium is indeed a climber. This means that it has the natural tendency to trail or vine as it grows. Just like other Philodendron species, such as the popular Philodendron hederaceum (commonly known as the Heartleaf Philodendron), P. Bipennifolium possesses aerial roots that it can use to support itself as it climbs.
In its natural habitat, P. Bipennifolium would typically climb up trees or other structures using its aerial roots. These roots help the plant attach itself to surfaces and provide stability as it grows upwards. However, when grown as a houseplant, it may not have access to trees or other means of support, so it is necessary to provide some assistance to prevent the plant from flopping over as it matures.
To support the climbing nature of P. Bipennifolium, you can stake the plant or provide a sturdy pole for it to climb on. This will help the plant grow upright and maintain its position as it grows taller. By giving it a vertical structure to cling to, you can encourage the Philodendron to exhibit its natural climbing tendencies.
When staking the plant, it’s essential to use a sturdy support that can withstand the weight of the growing plant. You can use materials such as bamboo stakes or metal poles. Make sure the stake is tall enough to accommodate the plant’s potential height, as P. Bipennifolium can grow quite tall with the right conditions.
To attach the plant to the stake, you can use soft ties or plant clips that won’t damage the stems or leaves. As the plant grows, you may need to adjust the ties or clips to ensure they are not too tight and restrict the plant’s growth.
Alternatively, you can also provide a moss pole or a trellis for the Philodendron to climb on. These structures can mimic the natural environment of the plant and offer a more organic support system. Moss poles are especially beneficial as they can provide additional moisture retention, which some Philodendron species appreciate.
It’s important to regularly check the plant’s growth and adjust the support system accordingly. As the Philodendron Bipennifolium continues to climb, you may need to provide additional staking or extend the pole to accommodate its height. Regular pruning and training can also help maintain the plant’s shape and prevent it from becoming too unruly.
Philodendron Bipennifolium is a climber, and like other climbing Philodendron species, it requires support to prevent it from flopping over. By staking the plant or providing a sturdy pole, you can help it maintain an upright growth habit and showcase its beautiful trailing or vining nature.
