Philodendron Pastazanum: All The Tips For Thriving Success

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What Is Philodendron Pastazanum?

The Philodendron Pastazanum is sometimes known as the Pasta Plant Philodendron. It is also fondly called “My Pasta” on social media. It is a stunning plant famous for its sophisticated foliage.

This perennial has heart-shaped and glossy dark green-colored leaves and belongs to the Araceae family. When grown indoors, it appreciates humidity near an east-facing window.

You may also grow your Philodendron Pastazanum outdoors if you are living in hardiness zones 9-11.

Origin And Family

Philodendron Pastazanum belongs to the Philodendron genus and the Araceae family. Natively, it’s from the rainforests of Pastaza, Ecuador, where it got its name.

First identified in the 1970s by Kurt Krause, this Philodendron plant prefers high humidity and bright indirect light.

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Where To Buy

To acquire a Philodendron Pastazanum, you could always start looking at a local nursery, but there are several cuttings and full-grown plants you can purchase online. Etsy is a reliable site that we recommend.

In terms of pricing, the pretty high prices for Philodendron Pastazanum plants are typically between $60 for rooted cuttings and $150 for larger plants.

Philodendron Pastazanum Plant Size

When grown as a houseplant, the Philodendron Pastazanum can reach 3-5 feet and spreads to a width of 4-6 feet. It’s a moderate grower that flourishes when placed near an east or west-facing window.

Philodendron Pastazanum Care Needs

Humidity-loving Pasta Plant Philodendrons want wet soil all year round. Only water your plant after the top two inches of soil have entirely dried out, and the pot should be watered until it exits the pot’s drainage holes. 

To prevent root rot, discard the water collecting tray.

For your convenience, we’ve included some basic care guidelines below.

Care Difficulty

Regarding care difficulty, the Pasta Plant Philodendron is easy-to-care-for, needing bright indirect light and regular ol’ potting soil. 

Growth Rate

The Philodendron Pastazanum plant grows to a height of 3-5 feet. Their growing season is between spring and summer.

Most Philodendron species, including the Pastazanum, grow pretty quick.

This plant’s primary stem (or rhizome) grows horizontally rather than vertically, making it a crawler. The ‘petioles’ carry the leaves, which extend vertically from the stem.

Since the leaves emerge from the rhizomes, this area should not be immersed and should remain on the soil surface. It’s possible that burying it will result in a rotting plant, one of the most typical blunders in Philodendron Pastazanum maintenance. Crawler rhizomes should not be buried in the ground.

LOOK AT THIS BIG OLE PHILODENDRON PASTAZANUM!!! pic.twitter.com/zP2l2E5pUk

— kujo daichi fans vietnam (@youshouldstan) February 13, 2020

Potting

It’s alright to utilize a thinner and longer rectangular pot for the potting vessel. A round pot may not be ideal as this plant has a crawler rhizome that will spread out in a linear growing pattern. Plastic, terracotta, or clay are all acceptable pot materials.

The primary consideration is that it has at least one drainage hole, allowing excess water to drain out. When Philodendron plants are left in water for long periods, their roots rot.

Repotting

To keep your Philodendron Pastazanum healthy, you should transplant it to a new pot once it has reached a particular size. You typically know it’s time to repot when you see its stems start to stand up along the edge of the container.

This happens, on average, every two years. Refresh the organic material in the container between repottings by adding some new potting soil.

It is also crucial to repot your plant if you believe it is infected with root rot because it could damage or kill this creeping plant.

Soil

Pasta Plant Philodendrons can grow sufficiently with standard commercial potting soil (think MiracleGro). Or you can use perlite, sphagnum moss, or orchid bark to create your own growing medium. Ensure that your Pastazanum has the best chance of success by keeping the soil at a constant moisture level.

These potting mixtures are what we recommend:

The plant must also have proper drainage to prevent diseases, root rot, and other problems. This magnificent species, like many others, appreciates well-drained soil, which reduces the dangers that come with standing water. 

pH

pH for this plant should be around 5 and 7, meaning your Pastazanum likes neutral to acidic soil. Philodendrons can be grown inside successfully, especially if you often repot or refresh the potting mix.

Water

Pasta Plant Philodendrons are humidity-loving plants that need relatively moist soil throughout the year.

When the top couple of inches of dirt are dry, hydrate your plant immediately. The pot should be watered until the water drains out the bottom holes. To prevent root rot, discard the water collecting tray.

In the winter, you won’t need to water as much. Water your plants deeply, from the underside, but less frequently. 

Light

This easy-to-care-for houseplant prefers bright indirect sunlight for 6-8 hours a day. Excessive light exposure may burn or even damage its leaves. If there isn’t enough light, it will grow slowly, and its leaves may not reach their maximum size.

Remember, you’re trying to give Pasta Plant Philodendron a home that’s similar to its natural environment. Since Pastazanum comes from the rainforests of Ecuador, it’s most comfortable in bright yet indirect light.

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

Think about placing your Philodendron Pastazanum or other home plants closer to a window or investing in artificial illumination if you’re worried they’re not receiving enough. Here are some basic alternatives to think about.

Fertilizer

A balanced liquid fertilizer is ideal for tropical plants like Philodendron Pastazanum. Simple Lawn Solutions Liquid Fertilizer, for example, would work. During the spring and summer, give the plant a monthly feeding.

Fertilizing is unnecessary in the winter. You can learn more about this plant’s typical potting soil needs in the section above.

Propagating Philodendron Pastazanum

Reproducing your Philodendron Pastazanum can be done with the correct propagation method. Below are some options to choose from, along with detailed instructions to help you out.

Stem Cuttings In Soil

Directly planting stem cuttings into some soil is the easiest way to propagate Philodendron Pastazanum plants. This plant’s growing season is in the spring and summer months, so it’s best to make cuttings during this time.

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. Ensure the soil is well-watered and constantly wet (but not soggy).

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

😍 Well just look at that tiny leaf growing on our Pastazanum cuttings!!
.#philodendronpastazanum #philodendron #philodendronfanatic pic.twitter.com/UqxA3M48Eh

— Plants for all Seasons (@Plants4Seasons) August 7, 2020

Stem Cuttings In Water

To propagate Pasta Plant Philodendron cuttings in water, follow these steps:

1. Cut. Cut a section from your plant about 4-6 inches in length. Cuttings that are too long might grow lanky.

2. Submerge. Let the cutting sit in a glass of water and wait for it to grow roots. To avoid rot, make sure to remove any leaves sitting below the water level.

3. Refill. Refill the glass with clean water every 3-5 days. For faster rooting, keep the plant nodes submerged.

4. Transplant. When the roots are long enough, transplant your cutting into a sterile potting mix. Moisten your plant frequently to help the roots transition into the soil.

Division Technique

A Pasta Plant Philodendron can also be propagated by dividing the clusters of stems with entangled root systems.

1. Dig up. 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

As you consider humidity levels for your Philodendron Pastazanum, keep in mind that you’re aiming to replicate the rainforests of Ecuador.

This Philodendron prefers high humidity between 65%-75%.

If you’ve checked your humidity and found that it’s low–– or could be better–– and especially if you’ve seen brown spots or brown edges, consider getting a humidifier or placing your plant in space with higher humidity.

Temperature

Generally, warm temperatures are best for your Pasta Plant Philodendron plant, but it can thrive in a temperature range of 45-95 degrees Fahrenheit.

The more significant consideration for this scarce variety is consistency. The Philodendron Pastazanum may be severely damaged by sudden temperature fluctuations. Keep them away from vents, cold drafts, and openings that may allow chilly air in. In the winter months, ensure to place this plant in a room within its ideal temperature range.

Toxic

Calcium oxalate crystals are found in the Pasta Plant Philodendron, which can be toxic to animals and people. Inflammation and difficulty breathing or swallowing are possible side effects if eaten. 

The perennial aroid is also known to cause skin irritation; therefore, it’s best to use gloves while handling it.

Despite the irritations, this plant likely won’t kill you. 

Pests, Diseases, And Other Problems

The Pasta Plant Philodendron is not a disease and pest-resistant plant. Here are some common problems, ailments, and pests–– and ways to treat them.

Spider Mites

Spider mites in the Pasta Plant are an unsightly yet common problem. Spider mite damage begins with tiny brown or yellow dots on the Philodendron leaf. Your plant’s growth may then slow or stop altogether. 

Furthermore, because spider mites are linked to spiders, they make webs, which are a little disgusting. So, that’s something more to be on the lookout for.

Begin by spraying your Philodendron Pastazanum with a sink nozzle to get rid of spider mites. If that doesn’t work, an insecticidal oil (such as horticultural oil) may do the trick.

If you have several plants in your home, you might need to quarantine them while you’re getting your spider mite population under control.

White Flies

The Philodendron Pastazanum may attract whiteflies, which are gnat-like pests that feed on the sap of your plants. Your leaves’ undersides will be devoured by larvae that hatch from the eggs they deposit on the tops of the leaves.

Pesticides are commonly used to control whiteflies, though using Neem oil and other plant oils is good. Pasta Plant Philodendrons suffering from black sooty mold may benefit from this treatment too, which kills whiteflies at all stages of development and discourages their growth.

Scale Insects

Philodendron Pastazanum scale insects may emerge as lumps on the stems or branches of the plant. The tiny bugs (colored green, gray, brown, or black) usually stay put once they’ve latched on to a plant.

If your infestation isn’t too bad, you can use a teaspoon of neem oil in four cups of water to discourage fresh scale insects from attacking your houseplant. Scale insects are like spider mites in that you should use a spray bottle and mist them aggressively.

Neem oil and horticultural oils may not eradicate the pests but will undoubtedly cause some damage to them. Numerous insecticide sprays for Pasta Plant Philodendron are regarded as safe to use for treatment.

Mealybugs

Infestation by mealybugs is possible for your Philodendron Pastazanum plant. Your Philodendron is harmed by these itty bitty parasites, which feed on the plant’s sap. Pasta Plant Philodendrons may be weakened or even killed by Mealybugs.

Take a cotton swab and immerse it in rubbing alcohol before wiping it over the heart-shaped-shaped leaves and stem to combat the mealybug invasion. As a preventative spray, I recommend using Neem oil combined with water as a base.

Brown Leaf Tips

If the tops of your Pasta Plant Philodendron start to turn brown, it could be an indication that it’s getting too much sunlight–– or that your home isn’t humid enough.

Drooping Leaves

Mealybugs is known to affect the Philodendron Pastazanum, can cause leaves to droop. Aside from poor drainage, overwatering and improper fertilizing may wreak havoc.

Yellow Leaves

Several factors can cause a Pasta Plant Philodendron plant to become yellow. It could be that it doesn’t get enough sunlight or gets too much or too little water.

Clipping yellow leaves will encourage new growth and prevent deterioration. In addition, yellow foliage might be unappealing. All you need is a pair of disinfected shears to remove the leaves.

Root Rot

Pasta Plant Philodendron’s root rot is a common cause of mortality. It’s common for people who grow in small spaces to overwater or neglect enough drainage in their potting soil. Prevention is the best attack against root rot.

To avoid Philodendron Pastazanum root rot, just watch how much water it gets. This frequently fatal condition is mainly caused by an overabundance of water.

Who needs to look out the window when you can have big plants like this?! What a view 😍⁠ #PhilodendronPastazanum
⁠⁠
📷: @plantsinwonderland⁣⠀ pic.twitter.com/Po7RJLw45Y

— Smart Plant Home (@SmartPlantHome) September 30, 2021

Similar Plants

Love Pasta Plant Philodendron? We’ve compiled a list of other plants that may be of interest:

Philodendron Golden Goddess: This goddess of a plant effortlessly commands attention with its bright green foliage. True to its name, this golden Philo can transform any plain-looking garden into a majestic one.

Philodendron Bipennifolium: This rare plant is sure to interest plant lovers fascinated with oddly-shaped leaves. This unique Philo, with its bright green leaves and glossy texture, not to mention striking foliage, is sure to bring a touch of quirkiness to any garden. 

Philodendron Spiritus-Sancti: Considered the holy grail of aroids, this wonder plant is nearly extinct. With its luxurious price tag, you can expect to be awestruck by this plant’s majesty.  

Philodendron Rio: Fan of low-maintenance plants? This one’s for you if you love to see beautiful variegation. This plant proudly shows off its green and cream-colored leaves that are sure to bring a fresh look and feel to any garden.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for an almost-extinct plant with a bit of flair, the Philodendron Pastazanum is a good option. With minimum care requirements, your efforts will be rewarded when you witness its sophisticated foliage, which is a true treat.

You can’t get enough of Philodendron plant guides, can you? Check out these fantastic Care Guides and see what else we have to offer!

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