Plant Royalty: Imperial Philodendron
National Aquarium staff water, propagate and care for thousands of plants. Let's take a look at how we care for an imperial philodendron.
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The National Aquarium is home to thousands of vibrant creatures, so it's no wonder that animals take center stage. But plant life is impossible to miss in exhibits like Upland Tropical Rain Forest. Animals roam freely in this re-creation of a South American rain forest alongside more than 160 species of plants. Caring for this exhibit's lush vegetation takes more than a green thumb, especially for plants like the imperial philodendron.
Plants Get Sunburns, Too?
Native to Brazil and Bolivia, the imperial philodendron boasts large, green leaves attached to flexible stems. This plant is sensitive to the sun's rays. Too much time in direct sunlight will burn the leaves or create yellow spots. It also grows quickly, forming dense foliage and aerial roots that grow above ground. These roots sprawl several feet away from the base of the plant and help it get plenty of water.
"The tricky part about caring for this plant is its sheer size," said Graham Hunt, the Aquarium's horticulturist for Upland Tropical Rain Forest. "Pruning the vines requires a saw, and I have to wear coveralls and gloves because the sap is irritative. We're so proud of this plant because it's the largest vining plant on exhibit."
Hundreds of Flowers
The imperial philodendron creates foot-long blooms encased in pink and green bracts, or leaflike structures. Hundreds of small, white flowers cover each bloom, making it look soft and squishy. If pollinated, the blossoms produce berries. But don't eat them! To defend against predators, every part of the plant (including its berries) contains small needle-like crystals. Ouch!
The next time you visit Upland Tropical Rain Forest, be on the lookout for the imperial philodendron—just one of the Aquarium's many plants!