Caring for Your Philodendron Rugosum: The Complete Guide

The Philodendron Rugosum, commonly known as the Pigskin Philodendron, is a beautiful and unique houseplant gaining popularity among indoor gardeners. This large, fast-growing aroid is characterized by its large, thick, wrinkled leaves that resemble a pig’s ear in texture.

Caring for this magnificent plant is straightforward once you understand its needs. With the right care your Philodendron Rugosum will reward you with vibrant show-stopping foliage. This complete guide covers everything you need to successfully grow this tropical beauty.

Overview of Philodendron Rugosum

Philodendron Rugosum, also called the Pigskin Philodendron or Sow’s Ear Plant, is a rare tropical aroid belonging to the Araceae family. It originates from the tropical rainforests of Ecuador and Colombia in South America.

This vining philodendron is prized for its large, oval-shaped leaves that look wrinkled and puckered. The leathery leaves have a rough, pebbly texture reminiscent of a pig’s skin, giving rise to its common name. When new leaves emerge, they unfurl in a rolled-up form, contributing to the crinkled appearance.

In its native habitat, Philodendron Rugosum climbs up trees and reaches lengths up to 15 feet Indoors, it makes an excellent climbing or trailing houseplant Given proper care, this philodendron will cascade beautifully in a hanging basket or climb a moss pole to showcase its uniquely textured foliage.

Light Requirements

Philodendron Rugosum thrives in medium to bright indirect light. An east or west-facing window is ideal, providing several hours of gentle morning or afternoon sunlight. Direct southern exposure should be filtered to prevent leaf scorching.

Low light areas can work but will result in smaller leaves and slower growth. Rotate the plant periodically to ensure even light exposure on all sides. Proper lighting brings out the best color and large, shapely leaves in this philodendron.

Watering and Soil Needs

Philodendron Rugosum prefers slightly moist soil but is prone to root rot if overwatered. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Always check soil moisture before irrigating to prevent soggy conditions.

This philodendron does best in a well-draining, peat-based potting mix amended with perlite or orchid bark to improve drainage. Aroid mixes tailored for philodendron are also suitable.

Humidity and Temperature

Hailing from tropical rainforests, Philodendron Rugosum thrives in warm, humid conditions. Ideal temperatures are 65-80°F during the day and above 55°F at night. High humidity around 60-80% is preferred to promote lush growth.

Use a humidifier, pebble tray, or grouping with other plants to boost moisture levels. Avoid cold drafts and drying heat sources like radiators that lower humidity around the plant.

Fertilizer

Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the active growing season in spring and summer. Reduce feeding in fall and winter during dormancy. Slow release pellets can be incorporated into the soil at the start of spring.

Support and Training

As a climbing aroid, Philodendron Rugosum benefits from a support structure as it matures. Provide a moss pole, coconut coir totem, or trellis for the vines to cling to using their aerial roots. Slowly train new growth to climb upwards to display the foliage beautifully.

Propagation

Philodendron Rugosum is easily propagated from stem tip cuttings in spring or summer. Take 4-6 inch cuttings, allow to callous over, and root in water or a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist until new roots and shoots appear.

This philodendron can also be propagated by air layering. Wrap moist sphagnum moss around a leaf node and enclose it in plastic wrap until roots develop.

Repotting

Repot Philodendron Rugosum each spring if the roots have filled out the current container. Move to a pot one size larger and use fresh potting mix. Take care not to damage the root ball when repotting this sensitive plant.

Common Problems

• Leaf yellowing – Excess light, overwatering, or nutrient deficiency. Adjust conditions accordingly.

• Drooping leaves – Underwatering. Check soil and water more often if dry.

• Leaf spots – Sign of bacterial or fungal disease. Prune affected leaves.

• Slow growth – Insufficient light or rootbound plant.

Tips for Success

• Provide bright indirect sunlight for optimal growth
• Let soil dry out partially between thorough waterings
• Maintain high humidity around 60-80%
• Keep temperatures between 65-80°F
• Stake or trellis mature plants
• Propagate from stem cuttings
• Repot annually in spring to refresh soil
• Look out for pests like spider mites

With its large textured leaves and vining habit, Philodendron Rugosum makes a dramatic addition to any indoor plant collection. Though not the easiest philodendron to find, this exotic tropical plant is well worth seeking out for its uniqueness and tropical flair. Follow these care tips to keep your Philodendron Rugosum healthy and looking its best!

Philodendrons generally prefer bright, indirect sunlight, but can tolerate low light conditions.