SKU: 33550284887
philodendron serpent

philodendron serpent Philodendron serpens – Hairy Stems & Glossy Hearts

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Description

philodendron serpent Philodendron serpens – Hairy Stems & Glossy HeartsPhilodendron serpens Hook. f. rare hairy petiole Philodendron from the Andes Philodendron serpens is a hemiepiphytic climber native to the premontane and lower montane forests of the Andes in Colombia (Nario) and Ecuador (Carchi, Pichincha, Pastaza). Described in 1871 by Joseph Dalton Hooker, it is instantly recognisable by its cordate green leaves and petioles densely covered in short, recurved hairs. In habitat it climbs mossy trunks in humid,

Philodendron serpens Hook.f. – rare hairy-petiole Philodendron from the Andes

Philodendron serpens is a hemiepiphytic climber native to the premontane and lower montane forests of the Andes in Colombia (Nariño) and Ecuador (Carchi, Pichincha, Pastaza). Described in 1871 by Joseph Dalton Hooker, it is instantly recognisable by its cordate green leaves and petioles densely covered in short, recurved hairs. In habitat it climbs mossy trunks in humid, shaded understories between 500 and 1 500 m elevation, a setting that informs its care in cultivation.

Foliage and growth highlights

  • Blades: Cordate to broadly cordate leaves, 30 – 45 cm long, 14 – 18 cm wide, leathery yet flexible, with a cordate base and acuminate tip.
  • Petioles: Covered with dense retrorse trichomes (short, backward-curving hairs) that create a tactile, “serpent-like” texture.
  • Growth habit: Scandent climber; produces aerial roots for anchorage and benefits from textured vertical supports.

Juvenile to mature development

Juvenile foliage is smaller, softer, and smoother. As the plant matures and gains height on a pole, blades broaden, texture deepens, and petiole hairs become denser. Appressed contact at each node improves hydraulic efficiency, encouraging larger leaves and maintaining petiole hair density.

Native range and ecology

  • Distribution: Andes of southern Colombia (Nariño) and northern to central Ecuador (Carchi, Pichincha, Pastaza)
  • Elevation: ~500 – 1 500 m above sea level
  • Habitat: Premontane wet forest and cloud forest edges; shaded, mossy slopes with constant humidity and organic-rich substrates

Care essentials for thriving Philodendron serpens

  • Light: Bright, indirect light for compact growth and strong leaf colour; avoid prolonged direct sun.
  • Water: Keep the mix evenly moist; let the top 2 – 3 cm dry before rewatering. Always ensure free drainage.
  • Humidity: ≥70 % RH is ideal; excels in plant cabinets, terrariums, or enclosed high-humidity displays with airflow.
  • Temperature: Optimal 18 – 29 °C; avoid drops below 13 °C or heat above 32 °C.
  • Substrate: Airy aroid blend (~35 % coco coir, 30 % fine orchid bark, 20 % perlite, 10 % compost, 5 % horticultural charcoal).
  • Feeding: Balanced liquid fertiliser at 25 – 50 % label rate every 4 – 6 weeks during active growth.
  • Support: Moss or fibre pole; secure the stem at each node to encourage appressed climbing and larger foliage.

Propagation and alternative culture

  • Stem cuttings: Take one-node cuttings below an aerial root; root in moist sphagnum, water, or semi-hydro.
  • Air layering: Useful for larger, established stems to maintain vigour.
  • Semi-hydro: Adaptable with gradual transition; maintain steady nutrient solution and good root aeration.

Inflorescence

Produces a green spathe enclosing a pale green to white spadix. Flowering is rare in cultivation and mainly of botanical interest; foliage and petiole features are the primary ornamental appeal.

Common issues and targeted solutions

  • Pests: Monitor for thrips, spider mites, and mealybugs; treat early with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oils.
  • Yellowing leaves: Often from overwatering or poor drainage; adjust watering and refresh mix.
  • Browning tips: Low humidity; raise RH and keep watering consistent.
  • Drooping: Underwatering or temperature stress; correct promptly.
  • Stunted growth: Increase light, ensure nutrient supply, and check for root congestion.

Conservation note

Not currently assessed by the IUCN, but its natural habitat is fragmented by land-use change. Ethical sourcing from cultivated stock supports both horticulture and wild populations.

Order Philodendron serpens

Add Philodendron serpens to your high-humidity collection for its lush cordate leaves and rare, tactile petioles. With filtered light, consistent moisture, and vertical training, it becomes a living showcase of Andean rainforest character.

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SKU: 33550284887

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B. Hernandez
Grantham, US
★★★★★ 3
Only Made It Two Weeks
Color: Grey, Color: Grey
This toy easily became my Fig's favorite toy. The squeaker wasn't as annoying as it is in many other dog plushies. However, that's where the positives end. After the first week, there was a hole in the stitching on its neck. I sewed it up, but it obviously did not last. The squeaker went silent after a few more days. I bought it on March 28th, and it is now April 12th. It's just a rag, now. RIP little honey badger. You did well in your short life time.
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Reviewed in the United States on April 13, 2026
Q
Verified Purchase
Quenalyssa
Carnegie, US
★★★★★ 4
Not 100% indestructible, but cute and worth the money
Color: Grey, Color: Grey
My dog absolutely love this little toy although when I looked up indestructible dog toys, this is one of the first things came up. I have to say it is not indestructible. I have not found one single dog ball or chew baby that is indestructible. My dog has found every which way to destroy them. It is now four days later and it’s still almost intact, but she has placed a hole in it. It does come with a squeaker, although the second day she already pulled it out it’s cute and it’s fun. Your cat could technically play with it if you had a cat and they wanted one quality wise, I would say it’s definitely close to indestructible, but it’s not completely indestructible and the colors were so fun.
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Reviewed in the United States on October 5, 2025
K
Verified Purchase
Kindle Customer
Massapequa, US
★★★★★ 1
It's not indestructible.
Color: Blue
Buyers beware, I have a jack russell, and I just got this item ten minutes ago, my dog ripped it up.It is not indestructible, it is a waste of money. My dog is very aggressive with his toys. So back to the drawing board...So I can't return this item because, it's ripped up and they're not gonna give me my money back... So do not buy this toy.
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Reviewed in the United States on April 28, 2026
S
Verified Purchase
SpendRSCat
Battle Creek, US
★★★★★ 5
Good for kittens & cats too!
Size: 15 Inch
Bought this for our new kitten, 5 months old, and didn't know if it was a good purchase or not. He loves it! He can chew on it, drag it around the house, interact with us too. And he hasn't lost or destroyed it. The only disappointment is the head squeaker stop working. The placard stated it would work even if bit. Not a big deal, though; kitten doesn't like the squeak. LOL
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Reviewed in the United States on July 3, 2024
R
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R. Church
San Leandro, US
★★★★★ 1
My dog's favorite toy, but
Size: 15 Inch
My dog loves his "lizzie" but the quality has gone down. The leather is thinner and easily torn, exposing the squeaker which becomes a swallowing hazard. Of course, no squeaker and half the fun is gone. For $10, I won't be buying any more of these. Sorry about that my furry friend.
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Reviewed in the United States on May 20, 2026

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