33 Fantastic Tips You Need To Grow Philodendron Mayoi

What Is Philodendron Mayoi?

Philodendron Mayoi is part of the Araceae family and is also known as the Fern-like Philodendron or the Palm-like Philodendron.

Considered a perennial, it grows well indoors near a well-lit window. It’s typically known for spectacular foliage, making it a truly rare houseplant.

The Philodendron Mayoi can also be raised outdoors in certain climates, ideally in hardiness zones 9-11.

Origin And Family

Fern-like Philodendron is a member of the genus Philodendron, part of the Araceae family. It originated in the Brazilian rainforests. Philodendron Mayoi has become a popular indoor plant in recent years, thriving in most households that give it plenty of humidity.

The Philodendron Mayoi has the honorary moniker “Simon Mayo” in recognition of renowned botanist Simon Mayo. It was believed to have been discovered on a study voyage to Manaus in the 1940s. However, it was first published in the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew Bulletin in the year 2000 by Dr. Eduardo G. Gonçalves (gon-ZAL-vas), Brazil’s best-known botanical aroid scientist.

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Where To Buy

Those looking for a Philodendron Mayoi should consider searching online–– Etsy is an excellent platform for buying houseplants.

Philodendron Mayois can be rather expensive, with prices between $50 for a cutting and $200+ for a more mature specimen.

Philodendron Mayoi Plant Size

When grown indoors, the Philodendron Mayoi grows to a height of 2-4 feet and spreads to a width of 7 inches. It grows rapidly and thrives near a window with plenty of light.

Philodendron Mayoi Care Needs

Philodendrons, which can resemble palm trees, are water-loving plants that need wet soil all year round. When the soil’s top 2-3 inches are dry in the summer, water your plant. Fill the pot all the way up till the water runs out of the hole at the bottom. To prevent root rot, remove the water collecting tray.

Check out some basic guidelines on how to take care of this lovely houseplant before you get started.

Care Difficulty

The Philodendron Mayoi is typically considered easy to care for with its light, water, and humidity needs. To cultivate this unusual plant, you must have the proper quantity of sunshine and well-draining soil in your growing area.

Growth Rate

A fast grower, the Philodendron Mayoi grows to a mature height of 2-4 feet. They are at their optimal growing stage between April and September.

The majority of Philodendron species, including the Mayoi, grow quickly.

Potting

For potting size, you can go for a medium pot. When choosing the material, it is preferable to use plastic, terracotta, or clay. The presence of at least one drainage hole is a must to eliminate any standing water.

Like most plants, your Philodendron won’t like sitting in wet soil. If you leave your plant in water too long, it may suffer from root rot. And trust us, that’s not fun.

Repotting

As Philodendron Mayoi plants develop, you should consider moving them to a larger container on an as-needed basis. As a result of Palm-like Philodendron’s fast growth, this happens every two years on average.

When repotting your Palm-like Philodendron, make sure to use a new potting mix that will give your plant a new lease on life.

Soil

Like most indoor plants, Fern-like Philodendron plants can grow nicely with standard commercial potting soil. Use sphagnum peat moss, bark, sand, or perlite to create your own growing medium. To help your Mayoi grow, make sure your soil is kept wet but not soggy.

These potting mixtures are what we recommend:

Additionally, the plant’s health depends on proper drainage to prevent disease, root rot, and other problems. This unusual species enjoys a moist, well-drained environment as much as the next guy. 

pH

For this Fern-like Philodendron, you’ll need a soil pH of around 5.0 to 6.0, which is acidic. Ordering a pH test online is an easy way to see whether your soil is alkaline or acidic.

Use sulfur or aluminum sulfate to correct a pH issue with your Philodendron Mayoi. Both are safe to use. 

Water

Philodendron Mayoi has to be watered correctly. Root rot and other illnesses may be brought on by overwatering. Too little, and it could harm or even kill your plant. Philodendrons, which resemble ferns, require a wet growth medium.

There is a simplistic method to tell whether your Palm-like Philodendron needs to be watered: use your finger to check and when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry, it’s time to water.

As we’ve already said, Philodendron Mayoi needs drainage holes and good soil, as long lengths of time in water aren’t suitable for it.

Avoid putting your Philodendron Mayoi in direct sunlight, as this could severely damage or even kill it.

Light

Philodendron Mayoi prefers bright indirect sunlight for approximately 6-8 hours daily. You’re trying to cultivate it the same way it grows in the Brazilian jungles, where it was first discovered. In most cases, placing this plant near a well-lit window works well.

When the Philodendron Mayoi leaves appear to be burned, you’ll know it’s getting too much light. Too much light may cause wilting and yellowing leaves, but it can also indicate a nutritional deficiency. Find out more about fertilizer in our section. 

Conversely, this plant’s growth will be hindered by a lack of sunlight or a significant distance from a light source.

Fertilizer

Many indoor gardeners don’t feed their plants enough because they believe water and light are sufficient. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer each month of spring and summer, but not during winter.

You may need to dilute a more effective fertilizer first. No fertilizing is required throughout the cold months. 

Here’s a PLANT UPDATE on the Philodendron mayoi propagations two months after repotting. Happy #MayoiMonday! pic.twitter.com/BB0P28Ig00

— terrapod (@terrapod_sg) December 13, 2021

Propagating Philodendron Mayoi

If your Philodendron Mayoi has grown too tall, you may prune back the stem and set the cuttings aside for propagation! Below, we’ve listed step-by-step guides for different propagation methods.

Stem Cuttings In Soil

Directly planting stem cuttings into some soil is the easiest method to propagate a Fern-like Philodendron. This plant’s growing season is in the spring to early summer months, so it’s best to take cuttings during this time of year.

1. Cut. Cut a portion of the stem with new leaves and at least one node attached. Without a node, your cutting won’t grow new buds.

2. Disinfect. If available, dip the cutting into cinnamon or rooting powder to disinfect the wound and encourage faster rooting.

3. Plant. Stick the cutting into a sterile potting mix. Make sure that the nodes are buried.

4. Water. Regular watering will help keep the soil damp (but not soaked).

5. Maintain. Place your new plant in a bright, shaded area with good airflow. It should grow roots within 2-3 weeks.

Stem Cuttings In Water

Water-propagation is another easy method to root your Palm-like Philodendron cuttings. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Cut. After harvesting a healthy cutting, pluck off the bottom leaves from its stem.

2. Submerge. Let the cutting sit in a glass of water. To avoid rot, make sure there are no leaves below the water level.

3. Maintain. Keep your cutting area in an area that is well-ventilated and well-lit. A humidifier nearby can boost the plant’s health.

4. Refill. Replace the water each time it starts to turn murky. Keep the nodes submerged for faster root growth.

5. Transplant. Plant your cutting into fresh, well-aerated soil after the roots have grown long enough. To assist the roots in acclimating, keep the soil wet.

Division Technique

A Fern-like Philodendron can also be propagated by dividing the clusters of stems with entangled root systems.

1. Dig. Using your small shovel, tap on the sides of the pot to loosen the soil. Gently tug at the plant until it comes out.

2. Separate. You should be able to see the natural boundary of each stem and separate them using your hands. The primary root balls should not be disrupted, even if you have to cut the roots.

3. Repot. Repot each section in smaller pots filled with the same soil they’re used to.

Humidity And Aeration

When considering humidity levels for your Philodendron Mayoi, keep in mind that you’re attempting to replicate the rainforests of Brazil.

This Philodendron is an exciting plant that likes 60% or higher humidity levels.

Humidifiers or transferring your plant to a more humid place (like a bathroom with a window) can be a better option if you’ve detected brown patches or edges on your leaves after checking your humidity level. 

Temperature

Generally, warm temperatures are best for your Fern-like Philodendron plant, thriving in the ideal temperature range of 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit.

The most important thing to consider for this rare variety is consistency. The Philodendron Mayoi may be severely damaged by sudden temperature fluctuations. Ensure they aren’t near any openings that may let in the frigid air, such as vents or cold drafts.

Toxic

Calcium oxalate crystals found in the Palm-like Philodendron are poisonous to pets (including cats and dogs) and people. Vomiting, nausea, and other indications of gastrointestinal discomfort are possible side effects if ingested. Its sap is also known to cause skin irritation, so make sure to wear a clean pair of gloves as you handle this beautiful plant. 

Regardless, this plant is typically not thought of as deadly.

Pests, Diseases, And Other Problems

The Philodendron Mayoi is not incredibly resistant to bugs and diseases. To help you better care for your Fern-like Philodendron, I’ve included a list of typical problems and remedies in the sections below.

Scale Insects

Scale insects may emerge as lumps on the stems or branches of the plant. Once they’ve gotten a hold of a plant, the tiny bugs— which might be green, gray, brown, or black— like to stay put.

A 1:16 ratio of neem oil to water may help prevent fresh scale insects from invading the Mayoi. A spray bottle may be used to get rid of spider mites by misting the plant.

Neem oil and horticultural oils may not kill the pests but will undoubtedly cause some damage to them. There are numerous insecticide sprays for Palm-like Philodendrons that are regarded as safe to use for treatment.

Brown Leaf Tips

Fern-like Philodendrons may turn brown if exposed to too much sunshine or lack of humidity in their environment. 

Drooping Leaves

Leaves of Philodendron Mayoi may droop due to Mealybugs being common pests. Overwatering and improper fertilizing may also contribute to these concerns. 

Yellow Leaves

Several factors can cause a Fern-like Philodendron plant to become yellow. It may be getting too much or too little sunshine or water.

Rejuvenation and averting deterioration are both promoted by regular pruning of yellow leaves. A decent pair of sanitized shears is all you need to remove the yellow leaves from your plants.

Root Rot

Root rot is a significant threat to Fern-like Philodendron. Indoor gardeners tend to overwater or not provide proper drainage for potting soil. These are the two leading causes of root rot. To avoid root rot, prevention is the best course of action.

To avoid root rot in Philodendron Mayoi, it is best to keep a close eye on water consumption. In this scenario, excessive water consumption is to blame.

My beautiful Philodendron Tahiti (mayoi) 🥺💕 I’m in love. pic.twitter.com/UsqAmQamM0

— apyo (@noppokuma) August 17, 2021

Similar Plants

Love Fern-like Philodendron? We’ve compiled a list of other plants that may be of interest:

Philodendron Golden Goddess: True to its name, this goddess of a plant has bright green foliage that commands attention. This treasure of a plant will stand out in any garden.

Philodendron Bipennifolium: If oddly-shaped plant leaves are in your collection, then this rare plant is for you. Shaped like a horse’s head, this unique Philo with its bright green leaves and glossy texture is sure to amp up your exotic collection. 

Philodendron Spiritus-Sancti: Majestic-looking, this wonder plant is nearly extinct and is considered the holy grail of aroids. And with its luxurious price tag, it is sure to elevate the look and feel of a gardener’s indoor plant collection.  

Philodendron Rio: This beautifully variegated plant proudly shows off its green and cream-colored leaves that are satisfying to look at. Low-maintenance and hardy, this beauty is ideal for new plant lovers.

Conclusion

For those in search of a rare plant with flair, consider the Philodendron Mayoi. In the end, you’ll be rewarded for your time and labor with awe-inspiring leaf displays.

Can’t get enough of Philodendron plant guides? Check out these great possibilities from Two Peas In A Condo!