Philodendron Joepii Variegated Mint - Exact Plant #13A

Philodendron Joepii Mint
Philodendron × joepii 'Mint'

A variegated form of one of the most botanically unusual philodendrons in cultivation, the Joepii Mint layers soft mint-green variegation over the already extraordinary leaf silhouette that made the species famous — the unmistakable elongated, tri-lobed form with a narrow, pinched central blade that dramatically widens at the tips, resembling an abstract bowtie or open-ended spade. First discovered in the rainforests of French Guiana in 1991 by Dutch botanist Joep Moonen, the initial specimen was so unusual that it was initially mistaken for a plant with insect damage rather than a naturally occurring species. Both the standard form and its variegated expressions are genuinely rare in cultivation, making the Mint form — with its delicate, cool-toned variegation expressed as marbling and irregular sectors of pale mint against deep green — an exceptionally sought-after collector grail. Variegation can be environmentally influenced and may be more pronounced during cooler growing conditions.

This cultivar is a slow-growing climber that benefits significantly from a firm moss pole or trellis — vertical support encourages the development of increasingly larger, more dramatically formed mature leaves. Provide bright indirect light to support healthy growth and the clearest variegation expression; insufficient light further slows an already deliberate growth rate. Water when the top 1-2" of medium is dry, using a well-draining, chunky aroid mix of orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir — the mint-toned variegated sectors are more susceptible to browning in low humidity than the green tissue. Humidity of 65-80% is strongly recommended. Maintain warm temperatures between 65-85°F and avoid cold exposure, which this species is particularly intolerant of. Toxic to humans and pets if ingested.