Common Name:

General Information

Philodendron radiatum is a vigorous evergreen, climbing shrub that is usually be epiphytic on trees but is sometimes found growing on the ground. The leaf shape changes gradually from small, heart-shaped leaves in young plants to large, deeply incised leaves that can be 90cm long and 70cm wide in mature plants[, ].
The aerial roots are used locally to make baskets and the plant also has minor local medicinal uses. The large leaves are much used as decorations on altars in Guatemala[].

Known Hazards

Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, it belongs to a family where most of the members contain calcium oxalate crystals. This substance is toxic fresh and, if eaten, makes the mouth, tongue and throat feel as if hundreds of small needles are digging in to them. However, calcium oxalate is easily broken down either by thoroughly cooking the plant or by fully drying it and, in either of these states, it is safe to eat the plant.
People with a tendency to rheumatism, arthritis, gout, kidney stones and hyperacidity should take especial caution if including this plant in their diet[].

Botanical References

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Range

Northern S. America - Colombia, north through Central America to Mexico.

Habitat

Usually epiphytic, rarely terrestrial, in wet forests, from sea level up to elevations of 2,000 metres or more[].

Properties

Medicinal Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Evergreen Climber
Height	0.00 m
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

A plant of the lowland tropics, where it is usually found at elevations from near sea level to around 700 metres, though it can sometimes be found as high as 2,000 metres.
Prefers a moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil and a position in partial shade[]. Plants are generally low feeders, but do benefit from occasional feeds that are rich in magnesium[].
Like many species in the family Araceae, this plant has the ability to heat the flowering spadix as the pollen becomes ready for fertilization. This heat greatly increases the strength of the aroma released by the plant, thus attracting more pollinating insects. It can also have the effect of making the insects more active, thus increasing the level of fertilization[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

A decoction of the leaves is added to baths in order to treat rheumatic pain and rickets[].

Other Uses

The aerial roots are used in basket making[].

Propagation

Seed - germinates best at 20°c[].
Air layering.
Stem tip cuttings.
Leaf bud cuttings.

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