Aroids and other genera in the Collection
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In depth information on how to grow Philodendron species, Click this Link
Within our collection we have many species of Philodendron. If you are seeking other photos, click this link
Philodendron
nangaritense Croat
Philodendron nangaritense was
only recently discovered by Dr. Tom Croat of the Missouri Botanical Garden
in St. Louis. The
unusual creeping Philodendron was found in 2005 in the
valley near the Rio Nangaritza in southern
Ecuador.
According to a personal email from Dr. Croat, the species is "yet unpublished owing to the fact that I do not have adequate type specimens." Dr. Croat went on to explain, "It is terrestrial with a creeping stem. In this character it is like P. gloriosum, P. plowmanii, P. mamei and other such species.
The river where the species was discovered runs close to the border with Peru and the Philodendron appears to be endemic (exclusively found) only in that valley. As a result, P. nangaritense is currently extremely rare in North American collections.
Philodendron nangaritense produces ovate, slightly round light green
leaves that are reported to exceed 60cm (two feet) in width in the wild.
As of May, 2007, the
largest leaf of our specimen is currently 30cm (11 3/4 inches). The
leaves are only slightly glossy and somewhat thin and quite fragile.
The undersides are matte.
The most distinctive portion of the species is the extraordinary petiole. The petioles are a rich red and are covered with small hard tubercles that make the petiole appear fuzzy. New leaves also unfurl from each side of the blade and exhibit a deep pink with a red petiole as they unfurl. The exquisite contrast between the green of the leaf and the red petiole is stunning and makes this species an unusual addition to any collection.
Philodendron nangaritense is found only in the province of Zamora-Chinchipe in the southern Ecuadorian rain forests. Collection elevations were 1130 to 1140 meters (roughly 3500 feet) above sea level. The species prefers intermediate to warm yet very humid conditions. Dr. Ron Kaufmann of San Diego reports the species can tolerate temperatures into the mid 50s. We grow the specimen in a fast draining soil mixture that holds moisture well it drains quickly. Dr. Kaufmann recommends approximately 50% shade.
Philodendron species are known to be highly variable and not every leaf of every specimen will always appear the same. This link explains in non-technical language natural variation and morphogenesis within aroids and other species. Click here.
If you are seeking information on
other rare species, click on "Aroids and other genera in the Collection" at the top and
look for the
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