An arrowhead plant (or “syngonium podophyllum”) is a tropical evergreen plant native to the tropical rainforest of South America, with broad arrowhead or heart-shaped foliage. It has an intriguing leaf shape, changing from a smooth oval to the deeply cut lobes of a mature specimen.
The arrowhead plant shows its color best when grown in bright light, with leaves that can be shades of white, pale green, yellow, ivory, cream, or pink―or a striking combination of these shades. It requires warm temperatures and plenty of bright, indirect sunlight, making it a popular houseplant and a great choice for indoor gardens and terrariums.
In warmer climates, the arrowhead can be grown as a groundcover. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and appreciates regular misting.
Are arrowhead plants Pothos?
No, arrowhead plants are not Pothos. Arrowhead plants, or Syngonium speices, are a type of aroid plant that is native to tropical areas of Central and South America. The species is usually an evergreen, climbing vine that is characterized by its arrow-shaped leaves, which may be variegated or solid green in color.
By contrast, Pothos are a species of epipremnum which is a type of evergreen vine of the Araceae family native to the Solomon Islands. Pothos can be distinguished from other aroid plants by its heart-shaped to ovate leaves that grow either in a variegated or solid color.
What’s another name for arrowhead plant?
Arrowhead plant is also known as syngonium, nephthytis, or goose foot. It is a low-growing, evergreen perennial native to tropical regions of Mexico, Central America, and South America. The plant has arrow or spear-shaped leaves and its leaves change shape as the plant grows and matures.
The arrowhead plant requires moist, warm outdoor temperatures and prefers filtered light, and indoors, it should be kept in humidified atmosphere.
Is an arrowhead plant good for indoors?
Yes, an arrowhead plant (also known as Nephthytis or Syngonium) is a great choice for indoors. This drought-tolerant beauty can thrive in low light and comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, making it perfect for any living space.
Arrowhead plants are also quite easy to care for. They should be allowed to dry out somewhat between watering and can even do with occasional misting. The arrowhead plant requires no pruning and can last anywhere from several years to several decades if kept in the right conditions.
How toxic are arrowhead plants?
Arrowhead plants (Syngonium spp. ) are not generally considered toxic to humans and animals, although they do contain saponins, which can cause irritation and discomfort if ingested in large amounts.
Symptoms of ingestion include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea. However, these chemicals may be quite toxic to aquatic life, so it is not recommended to keep arrowhead plants in tanks with fish.
Additionally, they can cause skin irritation and contact dermatitis, so you should wear gloves. when handling them. Overall, the plants are considered to be of low to moderate toxicity, but caution should be taken when handling them.
Should I prune my arrowhead plant?
Yes, pruning your arrowhead plant is a great way to maintain its overall health and appearance. Pruning the plant can help to promote fuller, bushier growth, and can also help to prevent disease and pest infestations.
When pruning your plant, you should focus on removing old, yellowed, or damaged leaves, as well as any spent flowers. You should also cut back any stems that are leggy or overgrown in order to promote new, compact growth.
Always use sharp, sterilized gardening shears when pruning to avoid damaging the plant and making it susceptible to disease. Additionally, it’s important to prune your arrowhead plant regularly to keep its shape attractive and the overall health of the plant in check.
Pruning should be done in the spring or early summer, or when necessary in order to keep the plant looking its best.
Does arrowhead plant purify air?
Yes, the arrowhead plant (also known as the ‘syngonium podophyllum’) can help purify air. This glossy-leaved evergreen perennial is native to Central and South America, and is part of the Araceae family.
The arrowhead plant is a great choice for indoor air purification as it acts as a natural filter to eliminate toxins and pollutants from the air. It helps to remove VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene, which can be found in paint, lacquers, and cleaning products.
It also helps to reduce levels of carbon dioxide. Potassium, nitrogen, and sulfur compounds like ammonia, nitrates, and carbon monoxide are also removed from the air. The arrowhead plant is an easy-care air-purifying plant that does not require a lot of light or water, making it an ideal choice for indoor use.
How do you care for an indoor arrowhead plant?
Caring for an indoor arrowhead plant is relatively easy and does not require too much effort. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your arrowhead is happy and healthy indoors:
1. Provide adequate light. Provide bright, indirect light for your arrowhead plants. Keep them out of the way of direct sunlight which could burn the leaves.
2. Water appropriately. Water your arrowhead plant when the surface of the soil appears dry. Allow the water to run through the soil and come out of the drainage holes before discarding the excess. You can also periodically spray the leaves to encourage humidity.
3. Prune as needed. Pruning off dead or yellowing leaves from your arrowhead plant can help promote better growth and a desirable shape. To prune, use sharp scissors and cut the leaf just above its connection with the stem.
4. Fertilize regularly. Fertilize your arrowhead plant with a well balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer about once a month.
Following these tips should ensure that your indoor arrowhead plant remains in peak condition.
Are Philodendrons toxic?
Yes, Philodendrons are toxic and should be kept away from children and pets. Philodendrons contain calcium oxalate crystals which can cause intense burning and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips.
If ingested, these crystals can cause throat swelling, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting. Severe cases may lead to respiratory failure. Contact with the plant’s sap or leaves can also cause skin irritation, itchiness, and a burning sensation.
If a child or pet is exposed to a Philodendron, seek medical attention and wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water.
