Arrowhead plant - Syngonium podophyllum (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

Arrowhead plant

Also known as: American evergreen, Goosefoot

Arrowhead plant (Syngonium podophyllum) is a beautiful foliage plant, one of the most popular species of the Araceae family. Due to its air purifying qualities and good looks, arrowhead plant is often cultivated as a houseplant. Every part of this plant is toxic, so it's best to keep it away from kids and pets.

Scientific classification

Species

Arrowhead plant (Syngonium podophyllum)

Water plantains and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Vine, Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Mid summer, Late summer

Harvest Time

91 cm to 1.8 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green, White, Silver

Leaf Color

3.5 mm to 4 mm

Flower Size

Brown, Black, Copper

Fruit Color

Green, White, Cream

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver, White

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Images of Arrowhead plant

Distribution of Arrowhead plant

Distribution Map

Arrowhead plant is native to central and south America,. It grows on forest floors, climbing tree trunks through the understory. It is appreciated as a houseplant and garden ornamental around the world, but has become invasive in the United States, South Africa, Singapore, and on various Caribbean and Pacific islands.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dense primary forest, secondary growth

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

It can absorb formaldehyde and benzene.

Garden Use

Arrowhead plant is an ornamental evergreen vine that is commonly found in tropical gardens. It is prized for its attractive, variegated arrow-shaped leaves. Its climbing nature makes it suitable for concealing, ground cover, or as a trailing vine. Arrowhead plant is appropriate for Japanese-style gardens. Suggested companion plants include Dieffenbachia or Ficus.

Symbolism

Leisure, elegance, tranquility, benevolence

Interesting Facts

The arrowhead plant has very beautiful leaves, and its shape is also beautiful and elegant. It is not only used for decorating indoor environments, but also for absorbing formaldehyde, ammonia and other toxic gases in the air. Because of its broad leaves, it has a high rate of transpiration. Thus, it is very effective in improving air quality. Although it is often seen as a foliage plant, it actually blossoms.

Name Story

Arrowhead plant: The leaves are so huge that they look like the spades from the poker cards. As it also looks a large pointy arrow, it is called arrowhead plant.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Arrowhead plant, including the following common varieties :

Syngonium podophyllum 'Maria Allusion'Arrowhead vine 'Pixie'African evergreen 'Glogo'Arrowhead vine 'Berry Allusion'Arrowhead vine 'Gold Allusion'Arrowhead vine 'Mango Allusion'Pink allusion nephthytis Arrowhead plant

Toxicity

All parts of arrowhead plant are moderately toxic when ingested, causing irritation and inflammation of the mouth and gastrointestinal system in dogs, cats, and people. Symptoms include excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Arrowhead plant is particularly risky for children due to its popularity as a houseplant. Ingestion by pets may necessitate veterinary intervention.

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Quickly Identify Arrowhead plant

Climbing growth reaching 6 feet (1.8 meters)

Long-petioled leaves with various colors

Ornamental arrowhead-shaped leaves

Smooth, green succulent stem with adventitious roots

Egg-shaped cluster of small, red berries

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Care Guide for Arrowhead plant

Every week

Water

Full shade

Sunlight

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from humid tropical rainforests, arrowhead plant prefers consistent humidity and requires weekly watering. Sensitive to drought, it is primarily cultivated indoors, thriving in high humidity to support its evergreen foliage and healthy growth cycles.

Fertilize: Fertilize arrowhead plant every 4-6 weeks with a high nitrogen, water-soluble fertilizer during spring and summer, reducing to every 8 weeks in fall. Avoid winter fertilization and always water before applying. Wear gloves and follow label instructions for safety, promoting healthy, vibrant growth.

Pruning: Arrowhead plant, a vibrant, fast-growing houseplant with arrowhead-shaped leaves, thrives with regular pruning in early spring to promote bushiness. Trim leggy stems and pinch growing tips to control size and prevent invasiveness. Use clean, sharp tools for healthy regrowth.

Propagation: Arrowhead plant propagation is achievable through cuttings, preserving the parent's traits. Use a stem section with leaves and nodes, plant in moist, well-draining soil or water until roots develop. Transition to a permanent pot in bright, indirect light for optimal growth.

Repotting: Arrowhead plant thrives best when repotted annually in spring, using a container 1-2 inches wider for optimal growth. Ensure good drainage, maintain consistent moisture, and provide bright, indirect light to support its adaptation and encourage vigorous development.

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Images of Arrowhead plant

Distribution of Arrowhead plant

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Arrowhead plant

Care Guide for Arrowhead plant

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