Golden Crocodile Philodendron

The Golden Crocodile Philodendron is a striking, self-heading hybrid known for its jagged, reptile-like leaves that shift in color as they mature 🐊 starting bright lime and deepening to rich, glossy green. Native to tropical rainforests of South America, it’s a showpiece plant that embodies strength and texture, thriving beautifully in kokedama form with steady moisture and filtered light.

This philodendron loves bright, indirect light but tolerates partial shade.
Keep it near a bright window or under grow lights, away from harsh afternoon sun that can scorch the foliage. If new leaves emerge small or pale, move it slightly closer to the light source.

• Water when the moss ball feels light, dry, or slightly crisp at the surface 💧 about once a week.
• Slowly pour 1 cup of water, letting it absorb evenly through the moss.
• Rotate the ball during watering so every side hydrates properly.
• Mist occasionally to maintain humidity and prevent leaf edges from drying.
• Never submerge the ball or leave it in standing water 💧 crocodiles might like swamps, but this one doesn’t.

Tip: If the new leaves curl before fully opening, you’re likely underwatering.

Feed monthly during spring and summer with ¼-strength balanced liquid fertilizer.
Skip winter feedings to allow for rest.
Overfeeding can dull its bright new-leaf color.

• Prefers 65–85 °F (18–29 °C) and moderate to high humidity.
• Tolerates average household air but thrives with misting or a humidifier nearby.
• Keep away from cold drafts or vents.

• Remove any yellowing or older leaves from the base with clean scissors.
• Wipe leaves occasionally to restore their shine and highlight the texture.
• Rotate weekly for even growth.
• The Golden Crocodile is a self-heading philodendron, meaning it grows upward instead of trailing ✂️ expect a compact, sculptural form perfect for tabletop displays.

In kokedama form, it can thrive for 10–14 months before needing a rewrap.
When roots begin escaping the moss or growth slows, gently trim and refresh with fresh moss for continued growth.

Rewrap or repot if:

• The moss no longer retains moisture evenly.
• Roots circle or poke through the surface.
• The plant becomes top-heavy or leans.

If repotting, choose a well-aerated aroid mix (bark, perlite, coco coir) and keep the same watering rhythm.

The Golden Crocodile is a rare hybrid cross from the Philodendron wendlandii and tortum lineage, bred for its wild texture and golden new growth.
It was originally cultivated as an ornamental novelty and has since become a collector’s favorite for its fierce, sculptural leaves that resemble crocodile skin.

• Light: Bright, indirect light; tolerates partial shade. Avoid harsh sun.
• Water: About 1 cup weekly, or when the moss ball feels light. Rotate while watering.
• Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity (50–70%). Mist occasionally.
• Temperature: Best between 65–85 °F; keep away from cold drafts or heat vents.
• Feeding: Use ¼-strength balanced liquid fertilizer once a month in spring and summer.
• Maintenance: Wipe leaves clean, remove old growth, rotate weekly for even shape.
• Kokedama Lifespan: Typically thrives 10–14 months before needing a rewrap.
• When to Refresh: Rewrap or repot when roots push through moss or growth slows.
• Difficulty: Easy and forgiving once established.
• Toxicity: Toxic if ingested by pets or small children.