Care Guide
Light
Provide bright, indirect light for healthy growth.
Tortum appreciates abundant filtered light indoors. Protect it from prolonged intense direct sunlight, particularly if it hasn’t been gradually acclimated to stronger conditions.
Very low light can result in slower, weaker growth.
Water
Allow the upper portion of the potting mix to begin drying before watering thoroughly.
Water until excess drains freely and avoid keeping the roots continuously saturated.
As always, don’t water simply because a certain number of days have passed.
Check the soil.
Light, temperature, pot size, season, and active growth all influence how quickly your Tortum uses water.
Humidity
Moderate humidity is appreciated, and somewhat higher humidity can support healthy growth and new-leaf development.
Tortum can still be grown successfully in normal household conditions when its overall needs are met.
Good airflow remains important.
Temperature
Warm, stable household temperatures are best.
Protect your Tortum from cold drafts and abrupt temperature changes.
Fertilizer
Feed periodically during active growth with a balanced houseplant fertilizer according to the product directions.
Avoid excessive fertilizer in an attempt to force rapid growth.
There’s no need to hurry this plant.
Watching those strange leaves develop is half the fun.
Growth Habit
Philodendron Tortum is a climbing Philodendron.
Provide a moss pole, plank, or another sturdy vertical support to allow it to follow its natural growth habit.
Its deeply divided foliage creates a relatively open, airy appearance despite the size the plant can eventually achieve.
Give the leaves enough space to develop without constantly rubbing against surrounding plants or objects.
New Leaves
New Tortum leaves can be especially fun to watch.
They emerge before gradually unfurling and expanding into the characteristic narrow, deeply divided mature form.
Resist the temptation to “help” a developing leaf open.
Yes, even if it is taking approximately seventeen years and you are quite certain it would appreciate your assistance.
It would not.
Let the plant do the plant thing.
Pet Safety
Not pet friendly. Like other Philodendrons, Philodendron tortum contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals and can cause painful oral irritation if chewed or ingested by cats or dogs.
Keep it away from pets and small children likely to chew foliage.
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