Philodendron Billietiae Brazil Ecotype BIG PLANT | (Exact Plant)
Philodendron billietiae — Brazilian Form (Pará, Amazon Basin)
Striking foliage and glowing petioles from the heart of the Brazilian Amazon
This jungle treasure hails from the lush rainforests of Pará, in northern Brazil—an authentic Philodendron billietiae "Brazilian Form" that’s bolder, darker, and more vigorous than its Guianan cousins. Native to lowland tropical forests at elevations of 50–200 m, it thrives in warm, ultra-humid conditions under dappled canopy light, often near riverbanks where the air stays saturated year-round.
What sets this form apart? First, the petioles: long, cylindrical, and glowing in fiery orange to yellow-orange tones—typically thicker and more vibrant than those of plants from French Guiana. Then, the foliage: elongated heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 35 inches long, with a deep emerald green surface, soft undulating margins, and a prominent central midrib. The undersides are slightly paler, accentuating their three-dimensional structure.
This is a fast-climbing aroid that truly takes off when given a moss pole or plank to grab onto. Strong aerial roots anchor to supports and add a wild, architectural feel to the plant’s silhouette—perfect for interior spaces or greenhouses where tropical vibes are welcome.
Care Guide (indoors or greenhouse)
• Light: Bright indirect (200–400 µmol m⁻² s⁻¹); avoid direct sun on petioles.
• Substrate: Very airy mix: 40% fine bark, 30% perlite, 20% peat, 10% charcoal. pH 5.5–6.5.
• Watering: Keep slightly moist; allow the top 1–2 inches of soil to dry before watering.
• Humidity: 70% or higher. Use a humidifier or pebble tray with LECA.
• Fertilizer: Use a balanced NPK 3‑1‑2 at ¼ strength every 2–3 weeks during the growing season. Reduce or pause in winter.
• Temperature: 72–86 °F daytime / no lower than 64 °F at night. Avoid cold drafts.
Caution:
Like most Philodendron, this plant contains calcium oxalate crystals and should be kept out of reach of children and pets.
Botanical Background
This species was first discovered in 1981 by Belgian botanist Frieda Billiet and formally described by Thomas B. Croat in Novon (1995). The Brazilian form remains one of the most coveted selections among rare plant collectors today.
