Name: Philodendron serpens Hook.f.

Etymology: The genus name is derived from the Greek words “phílos” (friend) and “déndron” (tree). The Latin specific epithet serpens means “creeping” or “snake-like.”

First described: In 1878 by Joseph Dalton Hooker.

Origin/Distribution: Colombia and Ecuador.

Habitat: Creeping to climbing in warm, humid forests along the Pacific Andes, at elevations of about 700–1,500 m. In cultivation, the species prefers temperatures of approximately 18–27 °C, high humidity, bright filtered light, and good air circulation.

Description and notes: Its most distinctive features are the densely hairy leaf stalks, heart-shaped leaves, and reddish venation on the undersides of the leaves. A flat climbing support or moss-covered trunk encourages its natural growth habit. We recommend a coarse, airy substrate and consistently light moisture without waterlogging.