Floraholic | Philodendron Jose Buono

Potsize:

15 cm

Height:

45 cm

Placement:

Partial shade, indirect light

Pet-friendly

Toxic

Thirst level

Moderate

Air-purifying:

Light

Description

The Philodendron Jose Buono is a rare variegated houseplant that instantly draws attention with her large, elongated leaves speckled with creamy white patches. Each leaf is unique: sometimes dotted, sometimes shaped like crescent moons, and occasionally almost entirely white. This variegated beauty is a true statement plant — elegant, tropical, and full of character.

What makes her so special is not just her leaf pattern, but also her robust growth. Jose Buono is a climbing plant that loves to work her way upward along a moss pole or plant support. She grows steadily and, with proper care, can reach over a meter tall. Her leathery leaves give her a luxurious look that fits perfectly in both botanical and modern interiors.

She originates from tropical South America, where she grows as an epiphyte among tree branches and foliage. You can see that reflected in her preferences: she loves light, humidity, and a bit of space to climb. Despite her rarity, she’s surprisingly approachable — a tropical diva with a gentle nature.

Care tips

Jose Buono thrives in bright, indirect light. Place her near an east- or west-facing window where she gets at least six hours of filtered sunlight a day. Direct sun can scorch her variegated leaves, while too little light may cause her pattern to fade and her growth to stretch. Rotate her occasionally to encourage even growth and a balanced display of variegation.

When it comes to watering: keep the soil lightly moist, but let the top 2–3 cm dry out between waterings. In spring and summer, water her weekly; in winter, every 7–10 days is usually enough. Use the “soak & drain” method: pour water slowly at the base until it runs through the drainage holes, then let her drain thoroughly. A light mix of orchid bark, perlite, and cocopeat is ideal to prevent root rot.

Jose Buono adores high humidity — 60% or more is perfect. Mist her regularly or place her on a tray with water and pebbles. During the growing season, feed her every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength. Want to propagate her? Take a stem cutting with at least one growth node and root it in water or sphagnum moss. Within a few weeks, you’ll have a new variegated beauty.