Small sized – Philodendron Golden melinonii

Basic Info

• Scientific name: Philodendron melinonii ‘Golden’

• Common names: Golden Melinonii Philodendron, Yellow Philodendron, Golden Leaf Philodendron

• Family: Araceae

• Origin: Native to the rainforests of South America (mainly French Guiana, Suriname, and Brazil)

• Growth habit: A rosette-forming terrestrial Philodendron — it grows from the base rather than climbing.

Appearance

• Leaves:

  • Large, elliptical to oblong, with a smooth, waxy surface.

  • Golden-lime to chartreuse coloration (new leaves are bright yellow-green, maturing to a deeper golden-olive).

  • Glossy and sturdy, forming an elegant fan-like rosette.

• Petiole: Thick, reddish or orange-tinged at the base.

• Mature size: Can reach 2–3 ft tall and up to 4 ft wide indoors with proper care.

Light Requirements

• Prefers bright, indirect light.

• A few hours of gentle morning sun deepens the golden color.

• Avoid strong afternoon sunlight — it can cause leaf burn.

• Can tolerate medium light but may lose some of its vibrant yellow tones.

Watering

• Keep soil lightly moist, not soggy.

• Water when the top 2–3 cm (1 inch) of soil feels dry.

• Always use pots with drainage holes.

• Reduce watering frequency during cooler months.

Temperature & Humidity

• Ideal temperature: 20–30 °C (68–86 °F).

• Humidity: 60–80 %. It loves a humid environment.

  • Mist the leaves occasionally.

  • Use a humidifier or pebble tray if indoor air is dry.

• Keep away from AC vents or cold drafts.

Soil

• Requires well-draining, airy soil similar to other Philodendrons.
  Recommended mix:

  • 40 % coco peat or peat moss

  • 30 % perlite or pumice

  • 20 % orchid bark

  • 10 % compost or worm castings

This ensures both aeration and moisture retention.

Fertilizer

• Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer.

• Use a balanced liquid fertilizer (NPK 20-20-20) diluted to half strength.

• Avoid heavy feeding in winter.

Maintenance

• Wipe leaves regularly to remove dust and enhance shine.

• Prune off yellow or damaged leaves to maintain shape.

• Repot every 1–2 years when roots start circling the pot.

• Rotate the plant periodically for even light exposure.

Common Issues

Quick Summary

Tips for Vibrant Color

• Provide consistent bright filtered light.

• Avoid mineral buildup from tap water — use filtered or rainwater.

• Clean leaves often — shiny foliage reflects light better, enhancing its golden tone.