Philodendron mican
About
The genus *Philodendron* is known for its diverse growth habits, ranging from terrestrial to complex hemiepiphytic forms. Many species exhibit dramatic leaf metamorphosis, developing distinct juvenile and adult leaf types depending on the plant's life stage and environment.
Field notes
Morphology
Leaves are typically large and imposing, often lobed, deeply cut, or pinnate, but can vary greatly in shape (e.g., heart-shaped, spear-shaped, or divided). The plant produces juvenile leaves (often heart-shaped when young) and much larger adult leaves, a process called metamorphosis. Cataphylls, which protect new leaves, are usually green, leaf-like, and rigid, falling into deciduous or persistent types.
Ecology
Some primary epiphytic species have a symbiotic relationship with ants, growing nests among their roots. The plant also produces extrafloral nectaries to attract these ants, which in turn protect the plant from other insects.
Habitat
- Altitude
- Not recorded
- Altitude class
- —
Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate