When it comes to low-maintenance houseplants, philodendrons are at the top of the list. There are hundreds of varieties available, and one of the best types of philodendron to grow is heart leaf philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum), aka the sweetheart vine or sweetheart plant. It's pretty, inexpensive, and super easy to grow, which means it's just about perfect in our eyes.
With an elegant, vining form and charming heart-shaped leaves, this philodendron does well in most indoor environments. In fact, it tolerates low indoor humidity better than many other tropical houseplants. Even better, heart leaf philodendron can live for decades with the right care.
Heart leaf philodendron has shiny green leaves, though you'll also see a variety called 'Brasil' that has a striking yellow band on each leaf. 'Micans' is another variety with bronze-colored, velvety leaves.
Thanks to its vining form, heart leaf philodendron looks beautiful cascading out of a container over the edges of a bookshelf or draping gracefully from a hanging pot. You also can train its growth vertically on a trellis or moss pole, though you need to give it a little help getting started by attaching it loosely with jute twine.
Heart leaf philodendron even tolerates some neglect, which is ideal if you're a new plant parent or, ahem, a tiny bit forgetful about watering. The only care it requires is an occasional trim when stems become too long and scraggly looking. Just snip off a piece here and there to help it maintain its bushy shape and stimulate new growth.
Often confused for pothos (Epipremnum aureum), heart leaf philodendron's leaves thinner and less waxy. Pothos leaves also don't curve in quite as much as heart leaf philodendron.
Here's what else you need to know about how to care for a heart leaf philodendron plant.
What Kind of Light Does Heart Leaf Philodendron Need?
Heart leaf philodendron prefers bright, indirect light. It doesn't like direct sunlight, which will scorch its leaves. A spot in a window that faces east, west, or south is ideal for it.
Heart leaf can do okay in lower light levels, but it won't look its best and tends to become a little gangly. If you don't have a good location near a window, consider using a grow light.
How Do I Water a Heart Leaf Philodendron?
Like many tropical plants, heart leaf philodendron prefers to dry out a little between waterings. Poke your finger in the soil; if soil clings to your finger, it's too soon to water. Wait a few more days and check again. It's time to water when the top inch or so of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering is a sure way to kill this plant, so err on the side of too dry rather than too wet.
Should I Feed a Heart Leaf Philodendron?
It's not entirely necessary. After all, plants do make their own food through photosynthesis. But you can give your heart leaf a little boost by feeding it once or twice a year with a liquid fertilizer. Spring and summer are the best times to do so.
Can I Make a New Heart Leaf Philodendron Plant?
Yes, it's so easy! To propagate your heart leaf philodendron, cut off a piece that's a few inches long, making sure it has some nodes (those nubby brown things) on the stem. Submerge the cutting with nodes in a glass of water, and keep it in bright, indirect light. It should sprout baby roots in a few weeks; after that, you can transplant it to a pot with potting soil. This is a great way to use the pieces you trim off to maintain its shape.
Heart Leaf Philodendron Is Toxic to Pets
Like all philodendron plants, heart leaf philodendron plants are toxic to pets, according to the ASPCA. These plants contain calcium oxalates, which can cause oral pain, swelling of the lips, drooling, and vomiting if ingested. If your pet has chowed down on this plant—even if you're not sure—call your vet right away. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. Choose a pet-friendly houseplant instead.
