Philodendron ‘Black Cardinal’ is an incredibly easy-to-care-for houseplant that is perfect for both novice and experienced plant owners. I have personally had the pleasure of growing this stunning plant, and I can confidently say that it requires minimal effort to thrive.
One of the reasons why Philodendron ‘Black Cardinal’ is considered easy is because of its adaptability to different light conditions. While it thrives in bright, indirect light, it can also tolerate medium light levels. This flexibility makes it suitable for a variety of indoor spaces, whether it be a bright, sun-filled room or a slightly darker corner.
When it comes to watering, Philodendron ‘Black Cardinal’ is forgiving and can handle occasional neglect. It prefers to be kept evenly moist, but it can tolerate slight drying out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to let the top inch or so of soil dry out before watering again. I have found that a thorough watering once a week during the growing season, and less frequent watering during the dormant period, has worked well for my plant.
In terms of temperature and humidity, Philodendron ‘Black Cardinal’ is relatively low-maintenance. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). As for humidity, it can handle average indoor humidity levels, but it appreciates a slightly more humid environment. Misting the leaves or placing the plant near a humidifier can help create a more favorable humidity level.
Fertilizing this plant is also straightforward. During the growing season, which typically spans from spring to early fall, I like to fertilize my Philodendron ‘Black Cardinal’ once a month with a balanced houseplant fertilizer. This helps promote healthy growth and enhances the color of the new leaves. However, it’s important to follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging and avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to nutrient burn.
Pruning is rarely necessary for Philodendron ‘Black Cardinal’, but it can be done to remove any dead or yellowing leaves. Additionally, if the plant becomes too leggy or unruly, you can trim back the stems to encourage a more compact growth habit. Just be sure to use clean, sharp pruning shears to avoid any damage to the plant.
Philodendron ‘Black Cardinal’ is an easy houseplant to care for due to its adaptability to different light conditions, forgiving watering requirements, and relatively low-maintenance needs in terms of temperature, humidity, and fertilizing. With a little attention and care, this beautiful plant will bring a touch of elegance to any indoor space.
