Nephthytis Arrowhead
The Nephthytis or Arrowhead vine, also known as Syngonium podophyllum, is a delightful evergreen houseplant with lovely foliage. It has long descending or drooping vines that branch from a central stalk and has glossy arrowhead shaped leaves that vary from bright green to variegated. Nephthytis is a low maintenance houseplant, but will need to be watched out for certain pests and diseases that can harm it if not addressed properly.
Typically, the Arrowhead vine should be watered when the top 2 inches of soil feels dry, and when watered it should be soaked thoroughly. During the summer, it can be watered twice a week, and during the winter the frequency of watering should be reduced.
This plant enjoys bright indirect sunlight, and will do well in a spot close to a window. It can handle low levels of direct sunlight, but if it is exposed to too strong of light, its leaves will become faded. If you notice this, try to move the plant to a more shaded spot.
The Arrowhead vine prefers temperatures between 60 - 75°F (15-24°C) during the growing season, and will tolerate as low as 45°F (7°C). It is important to make sure the plant is kept away from any cold drafts or heater vents in the winter.
This houseplant likes moderate to high levels of humidity and should not be left in dry air for too long as this can cause the tips of the leaves to curl. To increase the humidity, you can mist it with water or use a pebble tray.
This houseplant prefers a well-draining soil that is slightly on the acidic side. You can make your own soil blend for the Arrowhead vine using one part potting soil and one part perlite or vermiculite.
The Arrowhead vine should be fertilized every two to four weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to one-half strength for best results and avoid over-fertilizing as this can cause discoloration and brown leaf tips.
The Arrowhead vine can be prone to certain pests such as aphids, mealybugs, scale, and spider mites. In the event of an infestation, try spraying the plant with a strong stream of water to remove them. You can also use an insecticidal soap spray. Neem oil can be used if the problem persists.
The Arrowhead vine should be repotted every year or every other year, depending on how much growth it has. When repotting, make sure to use a potting mix intended for herbs and succulents. Choose a pot slightly bigger than the one it was initially in to provide adequate room for the roots to spread.
This houseplant should be pruned regularly to promote growth in all directions and to control its size, shape and height. Prune the vines as they begin to grow too long and also trim any dead or discolored leaves. Be sure to use sterilized pruning shears for best results.
Mulching the pot or container that the Arrowhead vine is in will help the soil retain moisture by reducing evaporation. A thin mulch is enough for this houseplant and organic mulches such as coconut coir are best.
Propagation of the Arrowhead vine can be done using stem cuttings, including cuttings with only a leaf or two attached. Cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and rooted in water or a light potting mix, such as a coir-based mix. Make sure the cuttings are kept in indirect sunlight and a somewhat humid environment.
The Arrowhead vine can grow quite large and likes to be supported so its vines have something to climb. Use stakes and twine to create a trellis or create a few curves and loops out of sturdy wire, as this will give the vine something to cling to as it grows up.
The Arrowhead vine doesn’t need a rest period, but it can benefit from a cooler and slightly dryer environment when winter rolls around. This houseplant enjoys a humid environment year round and should not be subjected to cold drafts or heater vents.
The Arrowhead vine is toxic to cats, dogs, and other animals when ingested so it’s best to keep them away from this plant. When handling this plant, wear gloves and a mask to avoid any skin irritation.
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