philodendron smithii asperum Philodendron Esmeralda Spirit

philodendron smithii asperum Philodendron Esmeralda SpiritPhilodendron Esmeralda Spirit Philodendron esmeraldense Philodendron spiritus sancti Another extraordinary hybrid from the spiritus sancti lineage, the Esmeralda Spirit pairs one of Ecuador's most prized endemic philodendrons with the Brazilian grail species that has captivated collectors worldwide. Philodendron esmeraldense brings deep, glossy emerald green foliage with elongated, lance shaped leaves, bold pale midrib venation, and vigorous climbing

Philodendron Esmeralda Spirit
Philodendron esmeraldense × Philodendron spiritus-sancti

Another extraordinary hybrid from the spiritus-sancti lineage, the Esmeralda Spirit pairs one of Ecuador's most prized endemic philodendrons with the Brazilian grail species that has captivated collectors worldwide. Philodendron esmeraldense brings deep, glossy emerald-green foliage with elongated, lance-shaped leaves, bold pale midrib venation, and vigorous climbing energy native to the lowland tropical forests of Ecuador's Esmeraldas Province. Philodendron spiritus-sancti contributes its legendary narrow, pendulous leaf silhouette and the prestige of one of the most sought-after aroids in existence. The resulting hybrid carries elongated, deep green leaves with a refined, tapering elegance that hints strongly at the spiritus-sancti lineage while benefiting from the robust, adaptable growth habit of the esmeraldense parent. Still exceptionally new and scarce in cultivation, the Esmeralda Spirit is a serious collector's hybrid — one for those who chase lineage as much as aesthetics.

• Light: Bright indirect light ideal. Tolerates moderate light but produces noticeably smaller leaves and slower growth. No direct sun — scorches the glossy foliage.
• Water: Water when top 2-3" of medium has dried out. Keep consistently moist but never waterlogged. Excellent drainage essential — soggy roots are the primary threat to this plant's health.
• Humidity: 65-80% preferred. Both parent species are native to high-humidity tropical environments. A dedicated humidifier is strongly recommended for best growth and leaf development.
• Soil: Chunky, well-draining aroid mix — orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir with good organic content. Provide a moss pole or trellis — climbing support is essential for encouraging the larger, more refined leaf form this hybrid develops at maturity.
• Fertilizer: Balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength every 2-4 weeks during active growth. Consistent nutrition supports the vigorous climbing habit inherited from the esmeraldense parent. Reduce in winter.
• Temperature: 65-85°F (18-29°C). Keep above 60°F. No cold drafts or AC vents — strictly tropical with no cold tolerance.
• Pests: Watch for thrips, spider mites, and mealybugs. Inspect new growth and leaf undersides regularly. Treat promptly at first sign with insecticidal soap, spinosad, or neem-based products.
• Toxicity: Toxic to humans and pets if ingested. Contains calcium oxalate crystals causing irritation and swelling of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract.
• Propagation: Stem cuttings taken just below a node, rooted in water or sphagnum moss in warm, humid conditions. As a hybrid, vegetative propagation is the only reliable method — seedlings will not reproduce the true Esmeralda Spirit.