Syngonium erythrophyllum
Care, watering, light and tips for Syngonium erythrophyllum on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Araceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Indirect light
- Temperature: 15–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Syngonium erythrophyllum
Syngonium erythrophyllum, commonly known as 'Arrowhead Vine', is an attractive indoor plant from the Araceae family, prized for the intense dark reddish-purple color of its undersides contrasting with the lighter green of its upper surfaces, creating a striking visual effect. Its arrow-shaped leaves evolve into a more lobed form as it matures, adding visual interest. It's ideal for hanging baskets where its stems can cascade, or as a climbing plant with a moss pole, bringing an exotic touch to any space.
Native range
Central America (Panama)
Care tips
Prefers bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves and dull the color. Keep the potting mix consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging, watering when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Use a well-draining, organic-rich potting mix. A common mistake is allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, which can lead to wilting and stress for the plant.
How to save a dying Syngonium erythrophyllum
- Warning signs
- Wilting, yellowing or browning leaves, soft or blackened stems. Soft, dark roots upon inspection.
- First aid
- Remove plant, inspect roots. Trim damaged parts with sterile scissors. Repot into fresh, well-draining soil. Water only if soil is dry.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and poor drainage, leading to root rot. Doesn't tolerate extreme dryness, but prefers soil to dry out between waterings.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly and there's no severe damage to the main stem. It's resilient, but root rot is its biggest enemy.