Image: AI generated
Giant philodendron Plant Care
Zelenkoa onusta (Lindl.) M.W.Chase & N.H.Williams
Updated · Sources · How we source care data
This plant is known for its unique large, paddle-shaped leaves that have a glossy, dark green sheen. Originating from the rainforests of Ecuador, Zelenkoa onusta is sought after by plant collectors for its striking foliage and rare availability in cultivation. Its impressive size and elegant appearance make it a prized addition to any collection of tropical plants.
Every 7–14 days
Bright indirect light
65–85°F
60–80%
At a glance
How do you care for Giant philodendron?
Water Giant philodendron every 7–14 days, letting the top layer of soil dry out between waterings, and give it bright indirect light. It prefers temperatures of 65–85°F (18–29°C) and 60–80% humidity. Fertilize it every 2 months during the growing season.
What Is the Giant philodendron?
Giant philodendron (Zelenkoa onusta) belongs to the Orchidaceae family within the Zelenkoa genus. Giant philodendron is native to Ecuador and Peru. Giant philodendron is also known as Philodendron giganteum.
Giant philodendron displays an epiphytic, clumping orchid growth habit, reaching up to 10 ft tall with a spread of approximately 6 ft. Giant philodendron produces small, fragrant blooms in various colors.
Leaf size: approximately 12 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Giant philodendron?
Zelenkoa onusta requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Giant philodendron Need?
Giant philodendron thrives in bright indirect light. Avoid placing Giant philodendron in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Bright indirect light
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Giant philodendron Prefer?
Zelenkoa onusta grows best at temperatures of 65–85°F. Giant philodendron prefers humidity levels of 60–80%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.
Temperature
65–85°F
Humidity
60–80%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Giant philodendron?
Loose, well-draining orchid mix with bark and perlite. Good drainage is essential for Giant philodendron to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Often Should You Fertilize a Giant philodendron?
Feed Giant philodendron every 2 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.
Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.
Fertilizing
Every 2 months
During the growing season
The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.
How Do You Repot a Giant philodendron?
Repot every 1-2 years after flowering. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Giant philodendron?
Giant philodendron can be propagated through division, back bulbs.
Is the Giant philodendron Toxic to Pets and Children?
Pet safety not verified
The ASPCA does not list Giant philodendron, so we can't confirm whether it is safe for cats and dogs. Keep pets from chewing it as a precaution.
This is a general caution, not veterinary or medical advice. If your pet ate a plant, contact your vet or animal poison control.
See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Giant philodendron?
Giant philodendron is susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, aphids. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Giant philodendron Need?
Giant philodendron grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10b – 11b. It survives winters down to planting zone 10b. Giant philodendron is native to Ecuador and Peru. In cooler regions, grow Giant philodendron as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 10b – 11b
Keep exploring plants
Giant philodendron is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Zelenkoa genus — compare its care with other Zelenkoa species on PlantoScan.
Zelenkoa is part of the Orchidaceae plant family — browse all Orchidaceae genera and species.
Giant philodendron thrives in bright light and direct sun — see other bright-light plants.
Related Plant Care Guides
Closely related plants with similar care requirements:
Sources
- Scientific name & taxonomy: Zelenkoa onusta (Lindl.) M.W.Chase & N.H.Williams, family Orchidaceae (first published in Lindleyana 16: 139 (2001)) — World Flora Online record, IPNI name record.
- Pet toxicity: Pet safety not verified: the ASPCA does not list Giant philodendron, so we can't confirm whether it is safe for cats and dogs. Checked against the ASPCA plant list; any other toxicity note on this page comes from PlantoScan's plant database.
- Photo: AI-generated illustration (labelled on the image).
- Hardiness zone: USDA Zone 10b – 11b, estimated from the plant's typical growing conditions.
- Care values(watering, light, temperature, humidity, soil, fertilizing): PlantoScan's plant database, filtered by automatic plausibility checks — values that fail them are hidden. How we source and check plant data.
Spotted a mistake? Email info@upvision.media with the page link — we check and correct reported errors.
Identify Plants Like the
Giant philodendron Instantly
Scan any plant with your phone camera and get instant ID, care tips, water and fertilizer reminders, and health checks — all in one app.
Free
to download
iOS & Android
platforms
Light & dark
mode
100,000+
species