Add a touch of tropical flare to your home with the stunning variegated foliage of Syngonium aurea! Here’s an easy care guide for you!
A rare exotic species—Syngonium aurea is a must-have addition if you want to flaunt your exclusive houseplant collection. The best part—the plant is low demanding and will sit gracefully in small places as well. If this is something that excites you, read on to learn everything about growing Syngonium aurea indoors!
- Botanical Name: Syngonium podophyllum ‘Aurea’
- Family: Araceae
- Attains a matured height of 2-3 feet indoors
- Prefers bright, indirect light
- Thrives in a temperature range of 60 to 85ºF (16 to 29ºC)
- Toxic to pets and humans
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Syngonium aurea Plant Profile
Popular as Golden Butterfly, Syngonium aurea is characterized by arrow-shaped leaves, variegated with shades of green, yellow, and cream. The leaves have a glossy finish that exudes a subtle sheen under bright, filtered sunlight. The plant grows long, sturdy stems as it ages that climb and trail gracefully up the trellises and around nearby surfaces.
The plant suits both as a compact potted houseplant or a vining specimen, depending on how you want to display it. With its striking appearance and easy-care requirements, Syngonium aurea is a popular choice for indoor plant parents.
Ideal Pot Size
To get the ideal pot size for Syngonium aurea, start with a small pot that is slightly larger than the plant’s root ball. A 4-6 inch pot is sufficient for a young plant, but as it grows, it will require a larger container to allow its roots to spread out and access more nutrients.
When repotting, choose a container that is one size larger than the previous pot. Ensure that the pot has proper drainage to prevent overwatering and root rot. Additionally, as Syngonium aurea is a vining plant, you may grow it in a hanging basket or train on a trellis or moss pole.
Syngonium aurea Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Syngonium aurea is via stem cuttings. Get a healthy, disease-free plant and follow the following steps to grow a baby plant within a couple of weeks:
- Select a robust stem and make a cut just below the leaf node using sharp, sterile clippers to get a 4-6 inches long cutting.
- Remove the lower leaves from the stem, leaving at least one or two leaves at the top.
- Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder or liquid, which can help promote root growth.
- Plant the stem cutting into a pot filled with moist potting mix, making sure to bury the node in the medium.
- Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or wrap to create a humid environment that can encourage root growth.
- Place the pot in a bright, indirect light location, and mist the medium regularly to retain moisture.
Check the cutting after a few weeks to see if roots have formed. Once roots have developed, remove the plastic cover and let the plant acclimate to the environment.
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Syngonium aurea Growing Requirements
Light
Syngonium aurea thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it near a window with filtered light, such as a north or east-facing window, to ensure optimal growth. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, leading to browning and discoloration. However, inadequate light may result in leggy growth and loss of variegation.
If natural light is insufficient, consider using artificial grow lights to maintain the plant’s vibrancy and growth rate.
Soil
The ideal soil mix for Syngonium aurea should be well-draining, lightweight, and rich in organic matter. Combine equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and potting soil to provide an excellent balance of drainage, aeration, and nutrient retention. The pH level should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging between 5.5 and 6.5.
Ensuring proper soil conditions will promote healthy root development and prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Water
Syngonium aurea requires consistent moisture but will not appreciate a soggy medium. Water the plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch, which may be every 7-10 days, depending on environmental conditions. Reduce watering frequency during winter months, as the plant enters a dormant period.
Use room-temperature water to prevent root shock and ensure proper drainage to help prevent root rot.
Temperature
Golden Butterfly grows best in temperatures ranging from 65-85°F (18-29°C). Although the plant can tolerate short periods of cooler temperatures, prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause stress and damage.
Avoid placing the plant near drafty windows, doors, or heating and cooling vents to prevent fluctuations in temperature. Consistent, moderate temperatures will encourage healthy growth and prevent yellowing or dropping leaves.
Humidity
Syngonium aurea appreciates higher humidity levels, ideally between 60-80%. Place the plant on a tray filled with water and pebbles, or regularly mist the plant with tepid water to boost the atmospheric moisture on drier days. Grouping plants together also helps.
Syngonium aurea Care
Fertilizers
Feed the Syngonium Gold Butterfly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, every 4-6 weeks from spring to early fall to promote its vibrancy. An NPK ratio of 20-20-20 is recommended for optimal results.
Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause leaf burn and root damage. Withhold fertilization during the winter months, as the plant’s growth slows down and it requires minimal nutrients.
Pests and Diseases
Syngonium aurea is relatively resistant to pests and diseases but can be infested by mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. Regularly inspect the foliage and treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. You may also wipe the foliage with a cotton cloth damped in a soapy solution to remove the dust accumulation.
Overwatering and poor drainage are the major culprits, leading to root rot. So, you better keep a check on them.
Common Troubleshooting Tips
- Yellowing leaves: A sign of overwatering; ensure the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry before watering, and always use a well-draining soil mix. They might also indicate insufficient light; ensure the plant receives bright, indirect light to maintain vibrant foliage.
- Leggy growth: If you notice long, leggy stems and sparse leaves, it may not be receiving enough light. Move the plant to a brighter location or use artificial grow lights to encourage compact, bushy growth.
- Brown leaf tips: Often caused by low humidity; place a humidifier nearby, or mist the plant regularly with tepid water. Ensure the plant is not placed near heating or cooling vents, which can cause dry air.
- Dropping leaves: Sudden leaf drops can be a result of temperature fluctuations or drafts. Place the plant in an area with consistent temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C), away from drafty windows or doors.
- Slow growth or pale leaves: Insufficient nutrients cause slow growth or pale leaves. Feed your Syngonium aurea with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, and withhold fertilization during winter months.
- Leaf curling: Inadequate water or a pest infestation can cause leaves to curl. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule as needed. Inspect the plant for pests and treat it accordingly.
Where to Buy Syngonium aurea?
Local nurseries and garden centers often carry a selection of houseplants, including Syngonium aurea, and can provide expert advice on care and cultivation. Additionally, home improvement stores and larger retailers with garden sections may also stock Syngonium aurea for Sale.
For a wider variety of options, including different sizes and cultivars, consider browsing online plant shops, specialized houseplant retailers, and e-commerce platforms such as Etsy, Amazon, or eBay. Ensure to research the seller’s reputation, read customer reviews, and ensure that the plant is shipped with proper packaging to avoid damage during transit.
