Philodendron Micans

Velvet you can grow. The Philodendron Micans plant is a trailing form of Philodendron hederaceum with heart-shaped leaves that shimmer bronze-green with a soft, velvety sheen, and new leaves often unfurl in a warm pinkish blush.

Native to the tropical forests of Central and South America and the Caribbean, it's a natural climber that's just as happy spilling from a shelf or hanging pot. Give it a moss pole and the leaves tend to size up as it matures; let it trail and you'll get long, graceful vines that catch the light every time you walk past.

Care snapshot

• Light: Bright, indirect light brings out the best velvet shimmer. It tolerates medium light, just with slower growth.
• Water: When the top inch or two of soil is dry. Use a well-draining, airy mix so roots never sit wet.
• Difficulty: Beginner. Forgiving, fast-growing, and quick to tell you (with a droop) when it's thirsty.
• Pet-safety: Toxic to cats and dogs if chewed or eaten; best kept out of reach.

What you'll receive

Plants are living things, so the Philodendron Micans you receive will have its own character and may vary slightly from the photo. Leaf colour and vine length shift with light and season, and that's part of the charm.

Soft to the eye, easy to keep happy, and endlessly trailable. Philodendron Micans is a lovely first plant and a quiet showstopper in any collection. Give it a home and watch it thrive.