The wavy philodendron (Thaumatophyllum undulatum) is a monoecious, shrubby, hemiepiphytic, rhizomatous, and perennial species with large heart-shaped leaves featuring undulated edges, highly eye-catching. Native to southern Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina, it prefers to grow in forests and marshy areas. It’s also considered a climbing plant, as it grows on supports like tree trunks. It boasts a strong, decumbent or ascending rhizome with aerial roots aiding its attachment.
Its leaves emerge from the rhizome, protected by cataphylls, and are held up by long terete (cylindrical) petioles. Gigantic, they can reach up to 90cm in length and 60cm in width. They are leathery, ovate-cordate to ovate-sagittate, sinuous, with broad rounded cuttings, 4 to 10cm lobes, undulated margins, and a glossy dark green color. In young plants, the leaves exhibit minimal to no cuts or undulations, making identification difficult.
The inflorescence is characteristic of the Araceae family, in other words, it’s a spadix-type inflorescence, with a green to wine-colored spathe, and a cylindrical white spadix. It occasionally emerges in leaf axils and holds little ornamental value. Female flowers mature at different times than male ones, limiting self-pollination. Additionally, its inflorescence carries a citrusy fragrance. Following pollination, it produces berry-type fruits.
This is a robust species, ideal for solitary or group planting in spacious lawns or by the side of lakes as a marsh plant. It can also be used as a border along walls or even in large pots that showcase its foliage. Due to its size, the wavy philodendron requires ample space to grow. In woodlands or even on trees and posts, it can serve as a beautiful ground cover, bringing a tropical forest aspect to the garden. Indoor cultivation in pots is intriguing, as long as it’s placed near a sunny window and in a large pot that accommodates its size.
Its glossy foliage is perfect for decorating living rooms, offices, balconies, patios, and other spacious environments. Furthermore, this species can adapt well to vertical gardens, especially those of the Urban Jungle style. The wavy philodendron has slow initial growth and is easy to cultivate. Maintenance of potted plants involves cleaning the dust accumulated on the leaves with a clean, damp cloth or a shower bath. Pruning should be done to remove dead or yellowed leaves, as well as to control its growth.
It should be grown in partial shade or full sun and appreciates fertile soil rich in organic matter, sandy or silty, even those prone to flooding. Water regularly, keeping the soil slightly damp. It thrives in high relative humidity, so when grown indoors, use water trays or a humidifier, and avoid air conditioning. It tolerates light frosts and the low temperatures of subtropical winters. The wavy philodendron also enjoys aquatic environments, making it common in marshy areas. Fertilize in spring and summer with liquid or slow-release fertilizers, as well as organic matter, always following the manufacturer’s instructions. Propagation of the wavy philodendron can occur through separation of shoots emerging from the mother plant, rhizome cuttings, or seed propagation.
