Arrowhead plant care guide
Syngonium podophyllum
Also known as: Arrowhead vine, Nephthytis
Pets and children
Considered toxic
Leaves and stems contain calcium oxalate; chewing causes mouth pain, swelling, drooling, and vomiting, so keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian, or a doctor for a child, if eaten.
How often to water Arrowhead plant
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 5 days
- Water thoroughly when the topsoil dries, as a guide; in midsummer it dries fast and the leaf tips suffer if it goes dry.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 7 days
- Generally water a day or two after the soil dries, as cooler weather slows drying.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 10 days
- Water lightly about three to four days after the soil dries; misting helps in a dry room.
Light and placement for Arrowhead plant
Bright shade generally suits it and it copes with a fairly dim room; direct sun scorches the leaves, and variegated forms revert to green in poor light.
Overwintering Arrowhead plant
Overwintering guide: 8°C (46°F) or above
Overwinter it indoors above roughly 8°C; move it off the cold windowsill at night and keep it on the dry side so the roots stay warm and not soggy.
Fertilizing and repotting Arrowhead plant
Fertilizer
Diluted liquid feed about twice a month from May to September; too much makes the leaves oversized, so keep it light, and none is needed in winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Arrowhead plant
- Overwatering rots the roots and the leaves yellow and fall.
- In a dark spot the vine stretches and the arrowhead leaves shrink.
- Winter chill blackens the leaves and the base rots.
Tips for growing Arrowhead plant
- Cutting the vines back keeps it bushy and holds the juvenile arrowhead leaf shape.
- Cuttings root in water and it also grows in hydroculture.
- Variegated forms color best in brighter light.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
