What an ideal terrarium plant! This medium-sized philodendron produces beautiful, rounded leaves that typically reach 2.5 to 3 inches in diameter. It maintains a steady but not overly aggressive growth rate—slow to start, but once established it grows reliably without overwhelming its surroundings. In a terrarium setting, the plant will naturally ramble across the floor of the tank, throwing beautiful leaves as it goes! However, its real charm shows when given a vertical surface: if trained up the back wall or any upright feature, the plant will “shingle,” with each leaf pressing neatly against the surface for a striking display.

This uncommon species originates from Peru and has only recently become available in the U.S. hobby, making it a desirable addition for collectors. It adapts well to terrarium culture and is considered relatively easy to grow under the right conditions. Moderate lighting tends to produce the most attractive foliage—too much light can result in smaller, less appealing leaves. With consistent humidity and a stable environment, this philodendron is a rewarding species that offers both beauty and versatility in terrarium design.

Plant Shipping Tips and Guarantees

First, if you are willing to make the effort to follow my suggestions for receiving your plants in good condition, I’ll generally replace plants that arrive dead, although I’ll expect you to pay shipping for the replacement order.  The costs of replacement shipping are generally not covered in our guarantees. Our remedy for most live arrival issues is replacement of the product.

Second, unlike fruit flies, which I generally ship regardless of my concerns, I assume you will want me to hold your plant order until I feel there is a reasonable chance for the order to arrive safely.  I will be in touch by email to discuss this.  When conditions are moderate, I’ll ship plant orders immediately. During the winter, I will check the weather at your location as well as nationally, over the expected path that your shipment will take.  We will use heat packs as needed, with no additional costs. In the event that we think additional steps need to be taken to assure safe delivery, we will be in touch.  I do recommend that if the weather is questionable on your end, either too cold, below mid thirties at night, or too hot, above 85 during the day, you should have your package held for pickup.  No replacements will be made if you haven’t taken this step.