Syngonium Origins & Care

Syngonium Podophyllum, aka the arrowhead vine, are stunning all the way around. The distinct shape of their leaves set them apart from most other aroids in the market. Yes, you heard that right, aroid. Syngonium will eventually want something to climb. They originate in Central and Southern America, specifically Mexico and Ecuador. In its native land this baby can reach upwards of 3-6’. The first species of this plant was described in 1763. That’s an old plant. Syngonium are hardy and also a notch on my beginner friendly list of plants.

Temperature/Humidity

As I’ve started previously, Syngonium are native to Central and Southern America. Humidity in these areas ranges from 60-100% depending on the time of year. In the summer, the humidity levels keep a constant high of 80-100%. The temperature is just as elevated and stay consistently between 75 and 95 degrees. This can vary depending on exact location and elevation but, it’s pretty warm and humid in their native land. Most of the United States OSS too cold for the syngonium to live outdoors. Hardiness zones 10-12 shouldn’t have an issue growing this beauty outdoors. For the colder regions, a greenhouse may be needed or you can grow your baby indoors. Off you are growing indoors there a few things to keep in mind. If you live in a region that requires you to use heating during the winter, a humidifier may be needed. Most syngonium can survive and even thrive in ambient conditions. If you see your leaves are beginning to crisp on the edges, look into adding a humidifier to your space.

Potting

Like most other plants I sell, syngonium are aroids and live alongside other plants. When potting up your planty companion, a chunky mix is required. I use a combination of horticultural charcoal, leca, orchid bark, compost/worm castings, lava rock, perlite, and coarse pumice. These amendments provide nourishment, and aeration which is what aroids need to thrive. A regular potting mix is sufficient as well but another amendment must be added to prevent root rot. Syngonium are climbers so giving this plant something to climb will have your baby growing spectacularly towards the heavens.  A moss pole is ideal since the syngonium roots aren’t as thick as other aracea species. Most Syngonium are rather fast growers so repotting may be needed more often than other plants. Keep in mind, repotting too often can cause shock and root rot as well. The best rule of thumb is to wait until your plant has filled the pot with at least 75% of root before moving to a larger pot. When upgrading your pot size, only go up 1-1.5” bigger than the plants root ball.

Watering

The tried and true way I’ve found to tell if your plant needs water is the good old wooden chopstick or dowel method. Stick the chopstick or dowel to the bottom of the pot, then pull it back out after about 3 seconds. If the stick is between 50-75% dry, it’s time to water. (Dry means no soil is sticking to the stick when removed from the soil.) When you’re watering you can use the fertilizer of your choice as long as you’re seeing active growth on your plant. Syngonium can tolerate a NPK ratio of 10-10-10 but would thrive with a 20-20-20. If there is no active growth, use regular water and you can add prop drops to help keep strong roots. This prevents fertilizer burn and damage to the roots. If you choose to use a self watering pot, let your reservoir dry out two to three days before refilling. This allows your plants roots to take a breath. If you’re using a ceramic pot you want to check two things. If the ceramic is glazed or not. Unglazed ceramic dries out significantly quicker resulting in frequent waterings as well. (If you’re an overwaterer, use an unglazed ceramic pot until you get the hang of it.)

Lighting

This plant climbs alongside other plants in attempts to see the sun, your baby would thrive in bright light conditions. Give your plant some early morning to early afternoon direct sun, and shade for mid afternoon to evening sun. If you live in a region that doesn’t get much sun or you don’t have the windows to supply direct sun, grow lights will be needed. Syngonium are prone to leaf burn so be careful when placing in direct sun. You can mist the leaves with water during sun bathing time to help reduce scorch.

Still need a truck or two or have a special case? Feel free to chat now or send an email, I’m happy to help!