Syngonium podophyllum 'Variegated'

Bring home the effortless tropical look of a variegated Arrowhead Vine. This Syngonium stays compact, grows quickly, and looks premium in any room with its green-and-cream marbled leaves. Style it as a lush tabletop plant now, then let it trail or climb as it matures—one plant, multiple looks. Ideal for busy homes and modern offices.

1. Basic Identification

Common Name: Variegated Arrowhead Vine
Botanical Name: Syngonium podophyllum
Former Name: Nephthytis podophyllum
Plant Type: Foliage houseplant (Aroid)
Plant Code / SKU: PLT-0079
Alternative Names:
بيقاس

2. Taxonomy & Classification

Order: Alismatales
Family: Araceae
Genus: Syngonium
Species: podophyllum

3. Origin & Distribution

Native to tropical rainforests of Central and South America, particularly Mexico and Costa Rica.
Naturalized in parts of North America (Florida), Southeast Asia and Australia.

4. Visual Characteristics

Distinctive arrowhead-shaped leaves with green-and-cream marbling; juvenile leaves unlobed, maturing to 3–5 lobes.
Leaves typically 5–15 cm long and 4–10 cm wide.
Thin, flexible stems that trail or climb when provided support.

5. Size & Dimensions

Trails or spreads 30–60 cm; climbs up to 2–3 m when given a vertical support.
Individual leaves reach 10–20 cm in length.

6. Light Requirements

Best in bright, indirect light to maintain crisp variegation.
Tolerates moderate to low light but may lose leaf variegation.
Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch foliage.

7. Watering Needs

Allow the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry between waterings.
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Reduce watering frequency in winter months.

8. Soil & Potting

Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix amended with perlite or orchid bark.
Repot every 1–2 years or when root-bound.
Ensure containers have adequate drainage holes.

9. Temperature & Humidity

Ideal temperature range 18–27 °C (65–80 °F); avoid exposure below 15 °C (59 °F).
Prefers high humidity (60–80%); benefits from regular misting or a humidifier.

10. Fertilization

Feed with a balanced (20-20-20) liquid fertilizer at half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer.
Suspend fertilization in fall and winter.

11. Maintenance & Care Level

Low to medium maintenance; well-suited for beginners.
Prune occasionally to control shape and remove yellowing or damaged leaves.

12. Growth & Propagation

Propagate via stem cuttings in water or moist potting mix; include at least one node.
Roots typically develop within 2–4 weeks.
Can also be air-layered on climbing specimens.

13. Common Problems

Pests: spider mites, mealybugs, aphids.
Diseases: root rot from overwatering, leaf spot in poor air circulation.
Brown leaf tips often indicate low humidity or fluoride in water.
Yellowing leaves usually signal overwatering.

14. Benefits & Uses

Effective air purifier, removing pollutants such as formaldehyde.
Versatile ornamental for tabletops, hanging baskets or moss poles.
Adds tropical texture and color to homes and offices.

15. Toxicity & Safety

Toxic to pets (cats, dogs) and humans if ingested due to calcium oxalate crystals.
Can cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing.
Wear gloves when handling to avoid skin or eye irritation.