Appearance and growth habit

Philodendron Burle Marx Flame is a striking, highly sought-after climbing aroid known for its long, narrow leaves with dramatic, deeply serrated edges. New growth often emerges in warm coppery or reddish tones before maturing to rich green, giving this plant plenty of personality. Its unusual foliage makes it a standout addition to any rare plant collection, and it will appreciate support as it grows. Definitely not your average leafy houseplant!

Care requirements

Provide bright, indirect light to encourage healthy growth and well-defined leaf shapes. Plant it in a chunky, well-draining aroid mix and water when the top few centimetres of the substrate have dried. Warm temperatures, good humidity and gentle airflow will help keep it happy. Avoid harsh direct sunlight and constantly soggy roots, as this flame deserves a little warmth, not a root-zone swamp.

Troubleshooting

Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering or poor drainage, while brown edges can result from inconsistent watering, low humidity or excessive sunlight. If growth becomes slow or new leaves struggle to unfurl, check the lighting, humidity and root health. Inspect regularly for pests such as thrips, spider mites and mealybugs, especially around new growth and leaf joints.

Pet and reptile safety

Philodendron Burle Marx Flame is toxic to cats and dogs if chewed or ingested because it contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. These can cause mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep it away from curious pets. It is not recommended for reptile enclosures, particularly where reptiles may chew or ingest the foliage. Choose a confirmed reptile-safe plant for bioactive habitats instead.