Source: Wikimedia Commons
Philodendron Brasil
BeginnerPhilodendron hederaceum 'Brasil'
A trailing heartleaf philodendron whose deep green leaves carry a central stripe of yellow to light green. The variegation sits in the middle of the leaf while the margins stay dark green.
About
Philodendron 'Brasil' is a variegated cultivar of Philodendron hederaceum, the heartleaf philodendron, a climbing aroid native to Central America and the Caribbean. NC State Extension describes 'Brasil' as having a variegated centre stripe of yellow to light green with dark green borders. Other cultivars of the same species include 'Lemon Lime' (whole leaf bright yellow to chartreuse), 'Rio' (silver and cream in the centre) and 'Cream Splash' (light green and cream), so the colour and position of the variegation are the main clues. 'Brasil' has yellowish variegation running down the middle with dark green margins. It differs completely in texture from the velvety 'Micans' (var. hederaceum) of the same species. It is often confused with pothos, but philodendrons have conspicuous stipules on new growth and petioles without a groove. No reliable record of its breeder or introduction was found. Care is the same as for the species: it tolerates low light, but variegation weakens when light is poor. In Japan it is a staple houseplant sold widely in garden centres, home-improvement stores and online, sometimes under the older name 'Oxycardium Brasil'.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Philodendron Brasil
The Philodendron Brasil grows to Vines keep growing; the species reaches 3-6 m with leaves up to 30 cm, but pot plants stay much smaller.
Basic Info
Origin
Cultivar (species native to Central America and the Caribbean)
Lifespan
Perennial (evergreen climber)
Size
Vines keep growing; the species reaches 3-6 m with leaves up to 30 cm, but pot plants stay much smaller
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Light houseplant feed in the growing season (spring to autumn)
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Bright shade or light through a sheer curtain. It tolerates low light, but in dim spots the variegation fades and leaves revert to green, so keep it fairly bright. Direct sun scorches the leaves.
Watering
Water when the surface dries and keep the mix slightly moist. Water less in winter; constantly wet soil leads to root rot.
Temperature & Overwintering
Tender; aim to keep it above about 15°C. In winter keep it in a warm room away from cold windows.
Soil & Repotting
Use a free-draining houseplant mix. As a climber it can be trained up a support or left to trail from a hanging pot. Repot in spring or summer.
Propagation
Stem cuttings taken below a node root readily. Variegation does not always carry over, so take cuttings from well-variegated stems.
Pests & Cautions
Cut back any all-green (reverted) stems early to keep the variegated look. Watch for aphids, spider mites, mealybugs and scale. The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalates; chewing it can cause mouth pain and swelling, drooling and vomiting (toxic to dogs and cats). Keep it out of reach of pets and small children.
Philodendron Brasil FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Philodendron Brasil?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QHow large does Philodendron Brasil get?
The mature size of Philodendron Brasil is Vines keep growing; the species reaches 3-6 m with leaves up to 30 cm, but pot plants stay much smaller. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Philodendron Brasil?
Philodendron Brasil: watering & fertilizer — Light houseplant feed in the growing season (spring to autumn). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Philodendron Brasil?
The price of Philodendron Brasil varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices. Not a designated invasive alien species in Japan, nor a nationally rare species under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species. No application or registration under the name 'Brasil' was found in Japan's plant variety registration database.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: List of Invasive Alien Species / MAFF Plant Variety Registration Database
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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