Plant Library
Arrowhead Plant Care Guide
Syngonium podophyllum
By the Plantshop.com Editorial Team · Updated · How we research · Report an error
The arrowhead plant (syngonium) has arrow-shaped leaves in green, cream, pink or near-white, and comes in dozens of colorful varieties. It starts bushy and later vines.
Plant profile
- Light
- Medium to bright indirect light
- Water
- When the top 1 in of soil is dry
- Humidity
- Average to medium
- Pets
- Toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA) [ASPCA]
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Size
- 1-2 ft, or vining
- Growth
- Fast
Light
Medium to bright indirect light. Rotate the pot every few weeks so growth stays even.
Water
When the top 1 in of soil is dry. Always use a pot with drainage holes and empty the saucer after watering. Plants use far less water in winter.
Humidity and temperature
Humidity: average to medium. Most houseplants prefer 60-80°F (16-27°C) and dislike cold drafts and heating vents.
Soil and feeding
Use a well-draining potting mix with bark or perlite for air. Feed lightly in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer at half strength; skip feeding in winter.
Our tip
Pinch out vining stems to keep it compact and bushy.
Common problems
- Yellow leaves: Overwatering.
- Leaves fading to green: Not enough light for the variegated types.
- Leggy vines: Normal with age; trim.
Pets
Toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA), according to the ASPCA plant list. If a pet chews it and shows symptoms, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Check any plant in our Pet-Safe Plant Checker.
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