Calkins Gold Philodendron: a plant that has taken the plant-loving community by storm. With its vibrant golden leaves, it’s no wonder why this plant has become so popular. But, have you ever wondered what makes this Philodendron stand out from the rest? Let’s take a closer look!
In short, the Calkins Gold Philodendron is a hybrid plant that originated from two different Philodendron species. This beautiful plant has vibrant yellow and green leaves that resemble a golden sunset. Its leaves have a glossy finish that makes it a perfect statement piece for any plant lover’s collection.
If you’re a plant enthusiast or just someone who loves to bring nature indoors, this article is for you! In this piece, we’ll be taking a deep dive into the world of Calkin’s philodendron. From its origins and characteristics to tips on how to care for it, we’ve got it all covered. So, let’s explore this stunning plant together and learn how to keep it thriving in our homes!
Description Overview
The Calkins Gold Philodendron is a member of the Araceae family, which includes other popular houseplants like the pothos and the peace lily. This plant is native to Central and South America, where it grows as an understory plant in the rainforest.
The Calkin’s philodendron is a climbing plant that can grow up to 6 feet tall, but it’s also well-suited to hanging baskets or trailing from a shelf or bookcase.
History and Origin
The Calkins Gold Philodendron is a hybrid cultivar that was first created by the horticulturist Dr. Thomas Calkins in the 1970s. Dr. Calkins, who was based in Florida, was known for his work in breeding and developing new philodendron cultivars. He crossed two philodendron species, Philodendron hastatum, and Philodendron domesticum, to create Calkin’s philodendron.
Uniqueness and Characteristics of the Plant
One of the main characteristics of the Calkins Gold Philodendron is its striking foliage. The leaves are large, glossy, and have a distinct golden-yellow color, with green veins running through them. The plant has a vining growth habit and can grow up to 6 feet long when mature. The Calkin’s philodendron is a great plant for adding a pop of color to any indoor space.
Benefits of Owning a Calkins Gold Philodendron
Aside from its aesthetic appeal, owning a Calkin’s philodendron has many benefits. This plant is known for its ability to purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene. Additionally, the plant’s vibrant color can add a pop of color to any room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.\
Why the Calkins Gold Philodendron is a Popular Houseplant
Aesthetic Appeal
The Calkins Gold Philodendron’s vibrant yellow color and unique heart-shaped leaves make it a popular choice for those looking to add a touch of color and texture to their home decor. This plant can be placed in a variety of locations, from tabletops to shelves, and can complement any interior design style.
Low Maintenance and Easy to Care for
As mentioned earlier, the Calkins Gold Philodendron is relatively easy to care for, making it an excellent choice for those who do not have a green thumb. This plant can withstand a range of light conditions and can thrive in various temperatures, making it adaptable to different living environments.
Health Benefits
Aside from its aesthetic appeal, Calkin’s philodendron is also known for its air-purifying properties, which can help promote a healthy living environment. This plant is also believed to have stress-reducing benefits, making it an ideal addition to any workspace or home office.
How to Care for a Calkins Gold Philodendron
If you’re interested in growing a Calkin’s philodendron, you’ll be pleased to know that this plant is relatively easy to care for. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Lighting Requirements
The Calkins Gold Philodendron thrives in bright, indirect light, making it an excellent choice for rooms that receive partial sun exposure. However, it is important to avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as this can cause the leaves to scorch.
Watering and Humidity
The Calkins Gold Philodendron requires consistent watering to keep the soil moist but not soggy. It is important to avoid overwatering the plant, as this can lead to root rot. Additionally, misting the leaves regularly can help maintain the plant’s high humidity requirements.
Soil and Fertilization
The Calkins Gold Philodendron prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilizing the plant once a month during the growing season can help promote healthy growth.
Repotting and Pruning
Repotting the Calkin’s philodendron should be done every 1-2 years, or when the plant outgrows its container. When repotting, it is important to use a well-draining potting mix and a container with drainage holes. Pruning the plant can help control its size and promote bushier growth. It is recommended to prune the plant during the growing season, using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Common issues and how to address them
Like any plant, the Calkins Gold Philodendron can experience issues from time to time. Here are a few common problems and how to address them:
Yellow leaves
If the leaves of your Calkin’s philodendron are turning yellow, it may be a sign that the plant is getting too much direct sunlight. Move your plant to a slightly shadier spot and adjust your watering routine as needed.
Root rot
Root rot can occur if the plant is overwatered or if it’s sitting in standing water. If you notice that the leaves of your plant are wilting, yellowing, or falling off, gently remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. If the roots are black or mushy, trim them back and repot the plant in fresh soil.
Wilting
Wilting leaves could be a sign of underwatering. Make sure that you are watering the plant regularly, but not too frequently. You can also mist the leaves with water to increase humidity around the plant.
Pests and Diseases to Watch Out For
The Calkins Gold Philodendron is not particularly prone to pests or diseases. However, like any plant, it can attract pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Propagation Methods
If you want to propagate your Calkin’s philodendron, there are a few different methods you can try.
Stem cuttings
Take a stem cutting from the plant that is at least 6 inches long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in the rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot with well-draining soil and keep it moist.
Division
If your plant has become too large, you can divide it into smaller plants. Remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the root ball into smaller sections. Plant each section in a pot with fresh soil.
Philodendron Calkins Gold vs Painted Lady: A Comparison
Philodendron Calkins Gold and Philodendron Painted Lady are two popular varieties of philodendrons that are prized for their unique foliage and easy-care requirements. While both plants share some similarities, there are also some key differences between them. In this article, we will compare and contrast the two plants based on the information provided above.
Appearance and Characteristics
Calkin’s philodendron and Philodendron Painted Lady have distinct appearances and characteristics.
Calkins Gold Philodendron is a hybrid cultivar that was first created by the horticulturist Dr. Thomas Calkins in the 1970s. This plant has large, glossy, golden-yellow leaves with green veins running through them. The leaves are a bit elongated in shape and have a vining growth habit. When mature, the plant can grow up to 6 feet long. Calkin’s philodendron is an excellent plant for adding a pop of color to any indoor space.
On the other hand, Philodendron Painted Lady has green leaves with yellow or cream-colored spots. The leaves are usually heart-shaped and have a more bushy growth habit. When mature, the plant can grow up to 3 feet long. The painted Lady is also an attractive plant that can add interest to any indoor space.
Care Requirements
In terms of care requirements, both Calkins Gold Philodendron and Painted Lady are relatively easy to care for.
Both plants prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate low-light conditions. They also prefer well-draining soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot.
Frequently Asked Question
How often should I water Calkins Gold Philodendron?
Proper watering is essential for the health of your Calkin’s philodendron. Water your plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure that the pot has good drainage to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
What is the best soil for Calkins Gold Philodendron?
Calkin’s philodendron prefers well-draining soil with good aeration. A good potting mix should contain a blend of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
How big does Calkins Gold Philodendron grow?
With proper care, Calkins Gold Philodendron can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and wide. However, the growth rate can vary depending on the growing conditions.
Can Calkins Gold Philodendron grow in low light?
While it can tolerate low light conditions, Calkins Gold Philodendron will thrive in bright, indirect light. If you notice that your plant is not growing well or has yellow leaves, it may be due to inadequate light.
How do I propagate Calkins Gold Philodendron?
You can propagate Calkins Gold Philodendron through stem cuttings. Cut a stem that has at least two leaves and place it in water or soil. Keep the cutting in a warm and humid environment until it roots and begins to grow.
To propagate your Calkins Gold Philodendron, follow these steps:
- Take a stem cutting that is at least 6 inches long and has at least two leaves.
- Trim off any leaves from the bottom of the stem, leaving at least two leaves at the top.
- Dip the end of the stem in rooting hormone powder to promote root growth.
- Place the stem cutting in a jar of water or in a pot of well-draining soil.
- Keep the cutting in a warm and humid environment and water it regularly.
- Wait for the roots to grow, and the plant to start growing new leaves.
Is Calkins Gold Philodendron toxic to pets?
Yes, Calkins Gold Philodendron is toxic to pets and should be kept away from them. If ingested, it can cause vomiting, drooling, and difficulty swallowing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Calkins Gold Philodendron is the perfect houseplant for your home. With its vibrant golden leaves, easy-care nature, and air-purifying properties, it’s no wonder why this plant has become increasingly popular among houseplant enthusiasts. Not only does it add a touch of tropical elegance to any room, but it also promotes a healthy living environment.
So, if you’re looking for a low-maintenance yet visually stunning houseplant, the Calkins Gold Philodendron is definitely worth considering. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a beginner, this plant is sure to thrive in your home with minimal effort.
Do you already have a Calkins Gold Philodendron in your home, or are you planning to get one after reading this blog? Let us know in the comments below!
