Syngonium - Growing Instruction & Care

Syngonium (syn·go·ni·um)
Family: Araceae
Common Name: Arrowhead Plant, Arrowhead Vine, Goosefoot
Botanical Name: Syngonium podophyllum 

Looking for an elegant and versatile houseplant that's easy to care for? Look no further than the Syngonium plant, also known as the Arrowhead vine. While these plants start off small and compact, they can quickly grow and extend in all directions, but they are easily pruned back to become fuller plants. Syngonium plants thrive in bright, indirect light and prefer to be kept in moist soil, but be careful not to overwater as they are susceptible to root rot. These adaptable plants can grow in a range of temperatures, making them suitable for various indoor environments. With a little attention and care, your Syngonium plant will flourish and add a touch of sophistication to your living space.

  1. Light: Syngoniums are low-light tolerant and can grow virtually anywhere in your home, but they will maintain their vibrant coloring and markings in medium to bright indirect light for at least 6 hours each day. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves.

  2. Water: Allow your Arrowhead vines to partially dry out between watering to prevent root rot. If the soil stays wet for too long, the leaves will turn yellow or brown. Soaking the soil and letting the plant rehydrate can help with this issue. Try watering with less water and more often if the leaves suddenly turn yellow or brown.

  3. Soil: Use potting soil that is rich in nutrients and organic matter, but still has the ability to drain well. Most coco coir or peat-based bagged potting soil mixes will work, but avoid water-retentive crystals, as they can cause root rot.

  4. Temperature: Syngoniums can tolerate most household temperatures, ranging from 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit, but they don't like temps below 50℉. Keep them away from drafts and doorways during the winter months.

  5. Humidity: Average household humidity (40-50%) is adequate, but higher humidity can benefit the plants even more. Try increasing the humidity around your Arrowhead vines by misting the leaves or placing a tray of water nearby.

  6. Fertilizer: These fast-growing plants benefit from fertilization during the growing season. Use ½ - ¼ strength complete liquid fertilizer twice a month, slow-release fertilizer, or top dress with worm castings or compost in early spring.

  7. Pro Tips: Let your Syngonium vines grow long and display them as a hanging plant as they mature. Prune foliage back to maintain a compact, full plant. Propagate cuttings in water, but be sure to check the patent status of your plant before propagating. Clean the leaves every few weeks to remove dust and pests, and rotate the plant ¼ turn every time you water it to encourage even growth.

If you're ready to grow your own Syngonium, visit American Plant Supply for the best growing supplies and plants. Remember, Arrowhead vines are poisonous if ingested, so be sure to keep them out of reach of pets and children.