Narrow Leather-Looking-Leaf Climber (Philodendron deals esmeraldense) 4in 6in 8in **PRESALE**

Esmeraldense is the currently accepted, but not published, name for this spectacular species of Philodendron. The scientific description is currently being prepared by Dr. Tom Croat of the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis and is expected to be published in the near future. In his pre-published notes, he believes the species may currently be restricted to the Lita area of Ecuador. Logically the plants are thought to now be found in the southern portion of Columbia. The plant was found to occur at Carchi, Esmeraldas (lending to the name) at an elevation of 1400 to 3600 feet above sea level in tropical wet rain forests and in lower mountain rain forest zones. Precise location yet to be determined.

This species has been noted as being terrestrial (growing along the ground) and epiphytic (attached to tree), but also as epilithic (attached to stone). Leaves are oval to arrow shaped and feel like thin to thick pieces of leather. They are also a medium to dark green and have a less than velvet appearance on the top and slightly matte and sometimes pale violet underneath. Maximum leaf size has not been identified, but is noted to reach up to 20" in length and around 4"+ in width.

'Philodendron esmeraldense 'Narrow Form' typical reaches up to 20"+ in length, but stays 5" or under in width, and is viewed more as an elongated oval than the true forms possible arrow-shaped leaves.



Image #1 to #5 - Approximate 4" plant size offered
Image #6 - Approximate 6" plant size typically shipped
Image #7 - 6" Pot M (approximate 6" plant size with medium to large leaves)
Image #8 - 8" Pot L (approximate 8" plant size with large leaves - thicker stem, decorative pot and moss pole not included)
Image #9 - More mature leaf and plant example (true form, not narrow)



*You will receive a plant similar to the one(s) pictured. Plants may or may not have dried ends, torn/broken leaves, but is unlikely. Not all leaves of this plant may be present when shipping as seen in the photos. Although they may ship sooner, this item is considered pre-order as they require additional processing time being that they are harvested or prepared as ordered. This plant usually does not, but may show signs of stress in transit through yellowing, drooping, or dropping of leaves.

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Foliage:
Leaves are narrowly ovate to sagittate and moderately coriaceous to sub-coriaceous. Blades are dark green and have a less than velutinous sheen that is slightly matte on the adaxial surface. Blades may also show a pale purple tinge on the abaxial surface. Morphogenesis does occur within this species.


Inflorescence:
Inflorescence measures deals 24 to 44 inches. Spathe measures 5 to 8 inches in length, is green at the base, blends white towards apex, but may be slightly purple with white markings. Unlikely to flower indoors.


Zoned:
10-11


Environment:
Medium to high humidity. It will usually tolerate indoor levels with only slight difficulty, and will appreciate additional humidity if available. Grows best in 60-90 degrees F and will tolerate as low as 45 degrees for a short period of time. Extremely cold-sensitive and will show it when upset.


Light:
Medium to bright indirect light indoors works best. Does not grow the best in low light conditions. Do not leave in direct, all-day or expose to afternoon sun. Outdoors place in full to part shade and provide support.


Soil:
Good quality aroid mix or well-draining peat based mix. Drainage is a must.


Water:
When watering, take care to fully drench the soil and allow excess to run through the drainage holes. Depending on growing container and medium, watering may be every 4-7. Allow soil to dry slightly before watering, the plant does not like constant "wet feet". Soggy or overly damp soil may encourage leaf drop and disease, excessively dry conditions may stunt growth. Decrease water in winter.


Fertilizer:
Is not required, but if a bigger and faster growth is sought, use a balanced fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing period.


Notes:
This plant is considered toxic and should not be consumed. Plants are shipped with light wrapping and padding according to import/export regulations. Shipping usually occurs on Monday and Tuesday to minimize risk of damage to plants in transit. You may request shipping Wednesday - Friday provided your understanding the live-arrive guarantee is void. Prior to shipping, please contact the shop with questions or concerns and familiarize yourself with the shipping policy in FAQ section. Pot, support poles, driftwood, or grapewood in images not included.