Do Philodendron Lickety Splits Bloom?

Philodendrons are a favorite among plant people for their lush foliage and ease of care. But when it comes to the Philodendron 'Lickety Split', many wonder if this particular variety blooms. It's a good question and one that invites us to explore the fascinating aspects of this plant's life cycle.

This article will walk you through everything you need to know about the blooming habits of Philodendron 'Lickety Split'. We'll also explore how you can care for it to ensure it thrives in your home, and maybe even spot some flowers if you're lucky. Let's get started!

What is Philodendron 'Lickety Split'?

Philodendron 'Lickety Split' is a striking plant known for its deeply lobed, glossy green leaves. These leaves have a unique shape that sets this variety apart from other philodendrons, giving it an exotic look. If you’ve ever wanted to bring a touch of the tropics into your home, this plant certainly fits the bill.

This variety is a hybrid, specifically bred for its stunning foliage and ability to adapt well to indoor environments. It's no surprise that it has become a popular choice for homes and offices alike. The 'Lickety Split' shares many of the easy-care traits of its philodendron relatives, making it a great option for both new and seasoned plant parents.

While its main attraction is the foliage, the question of blooming remains. Do these plants flower, and if so, what do they look like? Let's dig into that next.

Do Philodendron 'Lickety Split' Plants Bloom?

Now, about those blooms. Yes, the Philodendron 'Lickety Split' can bloom, but it's not something that happens often or is particularly noticeable. In their natural habitat, philodendrons can produce flowers, though it's the foliage that tends to steal the show.

The flowers of philodendrons, including 'Lickety Split', are not your typical showy blooms. They are small, often white or cream-colored, and come in a spathe and spadix form, similar to those of the peace lily. They might not be as eye-catching as the leaves, but they do have their own understated charm.

For most indoor gardeners, seeing a Philodendron 'Lickety Split' bloom is a rare event. The conditions indoors aren't always conducive to flowering, which typically requires specific environmental cues like light, humidity, and sometimes even a bit of stress. But don't worry if your plant focuses more on leaf production—it's perfectly normal.

How to Encourage Blooming in Philodendron 'Lickety Split'

While the focus of growing 'Lickety Split' is usually on its lovely leaves, you might be curious about how to coax a bloom or two out of your plant. Here are a few tips that might help encourage flowering:

• Light: Ensure your plant receives bright, indirect light. Too much direct sun can scorch the leaves, but insufficient light might hinder blooming.
• Humidity: Philodendrons thrive in humid conditions, similar to their native tropical environments. You can increase humidity by placing a humidifier nearby or setting the plant on a tray with water and pebbles.
• Temperature: Keep the temperature consistent, ideally between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Avoid cold drafts or sudden temperature changes.
• Fertilization: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). This can provide the nutrients necessary for flower production.
• Stress: Sometimes, a bit of stress can trigger flowering. This might include slightly reducing watering or changing the plant's location, but do so cautiously to avoid harming the plant.

Remember, even with the best care, blooming is not guaranteed. And that's okay! The stunning foliage is more than enough to keep your plant-loving heart happy.

Caring for Your Philodendron 'Lickety Split'

Even if blooming isn't a frequent occurrence, caring for a Philodendron 'Lickety Split' is rewarding in itself. Here's a quick guide to keeping your plant healthy and vibrant:

• Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, a common issue with philodendrons.
• Soil: A well-draining potting mix is crucial. You can use a mix designed for tropical plants or create your own with equal parts peat, perlite, and pine bark.
• Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. This promotes healthy growth and gives the roots more room to expand.
• Pruning: Trim any yellowing or dead leaves to keep the plant looking its best and to promote new growth.

Providing these basics will help ensure your plant remains a stunning centerpiece in your home, regardless of whether it decides to bloom.

Common Pests and Problems

Like any houseplant, Philodendron 'Lickety Split' can face its share of challenges. While it's generally a hardy plant, here are some common issues and how to tackle them:

Pests

Philodendrons can attract pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. If you notice tiny webs, sticky residue, or fuzzy white spots, you're likely dealing with one of these pests.

• Remove pests manually with a damp cloth or by rinsing the plant under a gentle stream of water.
• Use insecticidal soap or neem oil as a safe, natural treatment.

Yellowing Leaves

Yellow leaves can be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiencies. It's important to evaluate your watering schedule and adjust as needed.

• Check the soil moisture level to determine if you're over or under-watering.
• Consider fertilizing if the plant hasn't been fed in a while.

Root Rot

Root rot is a serious issue caused by overwatering and poor drainage. It can be fatal if not addressed promptly.

• Ensure your pot has drainage holes and the soil is well-draining.
• If root rot is suspected, remove the plant from the pot, trim away affected roots, and repot in fresh soil.

Staying vigilant and addressing issues as they arise will keep your plant healthy and thriving.

Philodendron 'Lickety Split' in Interior Design

Beyond its care, the Philodendron 'Lickety Split' is a fantastic choice for adding greenery to your home decor. Its bold foliage makes a statement, and its adaptability to various light conditions means it can fit into almost any room.

Here are a few ideas to incorporate this beautiful plant into your interior design:

• Living Room: Place it in a decorative pot on the floor or a low table where it can be a focal point. Its lush leaves add a touch of nature and can soften modern or minimalist spaces.
• Office: A Philodendron 'Lickety Split' can bring life to your workspace. Its air-purifying qualities are a bonus for improving indoor air quality.
• Bathroom: If you have a window that allows for indirect light, the humidity from showers can create an ideal environment for this plant.

Pair it with other tropical plants like ferns and calatheas for a rich, verdant display that feels like your own indoor jungle.

Propagating Philodendron 'Lickety Split'

If you love your Philodendron 'Lickety Split' and want more, propagation is a fun and rewarding process. Here's how you can do it:

Step 1: Choose a Healthy Stem

Look for a healthy stem with at least one node and a few leaves. A node is a small bump where leaves and roots grow from.

Step 2: Cut the Stem

Using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, make a cut just below a node. Ensure the cutting is about 4-6 inches long.

Step 3: Prepare the Cutting

Remove any lower leaves to leave a few leaves at the top. This minimizes water loss while the cutting develops roots.

Step 4: Rooting the Cutting

• In Water: Place the cutting in a jar of water, ensuring the node is submerged. Change the water every few days to keep it fresh.
• In Soil: Plant the cutting in a small pot with moist potting mix. Keep it warm and humid to encourage root growth.

In a few weeks, you should see roots developing. Once the roots are a couple of inches long, it's time to pot your new plant!

Choosing the Right Spot for Your Plant

Finding the perfect spot for your Philodendron 'Lickety Split' can make all the difference in its growth and health. Here are a few things to consider:

• Light: This plant does best in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf burn, while too little light may slow growth.
• Space: Consider the mature size of the plant. 'Lickety Split' can grow quite large, so ensure it has enough room to spread its leaves.
• Proximity to Heat Sources: Keep it away from radiators or vents, as direct heat can dry the plant out.

Experiment with different locations in your home to find where your plant looks and feels its best!

Final Thoughts

While the Philodendron 'Lickety Split' may not frequently bloom, its stunning foliage more than makes up for it. With proper care, this plant can thrive in a variety of indoor spaces, offering beauty and a touch of the tropics to your home.

At Cafe Planta, we love helping you care for your plants. Whether you have questions about your current collection or are looking for something new, we're here for you. Feel free to email us or DM us on Instagram. Happy planting!