Philodendron Micans Care: The Velvet Leaf Philodendron

Philodendron micans (also called velvet leaf philodendron) is one of the most beautiful trailing plants you can grow. The leaves are soft and velvety with a deep green color that shifts to bronze, copper, and burgundy depending on the light.

It is also ridiculously easy to care for. Micans tolerates lower light, forgives missed waterings, and grows fast. If you want a trailing plant that looks expensive but behaves like a beginner plant, this is it.

Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect light (tolerates medium light)
• Water: When top 2 inches of soil are dry
• Humidity: Normal household humidity is fine
• Growth habit: Trailing vine
• Biggest mistake: Overwatering

Light

Philodendron micans does best in bright, indirect light but tolerates medium light surprisingly well.

Best light:

• East-facing window
• A few feet back from a south or west window
• North-facing window works but growth will be slower

Signs of too little light:

• Leggy growth (long stems, fewer leaves)
• Leaves lose the bronze/burgundy tones
• Slower growth

Signs of too much light:

• Faded leaves
• Brown, crispy edges

Watering

Water when the top 2 inches of soil are dry. Micans likes consistent moisture but does not tolerate soggy soil.

How to water:

1. Stick your finger into the soil
2. If the top 2 inches are dry, water thoroughly until it drains
3. Empty the saucer

Typical schedule:

• Spring and summer: Every 5 to 7 days
• Fall and winter: Every 10 to 14 days

Micans is forgiving if you forget to water occasionally. The leaves will droop slightly when thirsty, then perk up after watering.

Soil and Pot

Use well-draining soil.

Best soil:

• Standard potting mix with perlite (2:1 ratio)
• Or aroid mix (potting soil, orchid bark, perlite)

Pot requirements:

• Must have drainage holes
• Hanging basket, shelf, or pot with room to trail

Temperature and Humidity

Micans is not fussy.

• Temperature: 60 to 85 F
• Humidity: Normal household humidity (40 to 60 percent) is fine

Higher humidity encourages larger leaves and faster growth, but it is not required.

Fertilizer

Feed during the growing season.

• Fertilize every 4 weeks in spring and summer
• Use balanced liquid fertilizer (diluted to half strength)
• Skip fertilizing in fall and winter

Pruning and Training

Micans grows fast and can get leggy over time. Prune to keep it full and bushy.

How to prune:

1. Cut back long, leggy stems
2. Remove yellowing or damaged leaves
3. Use clean, sharp scissors

Pro tip: Prune just above a node to encourage branching.

You can also train micans to climb a moss pole if you prefer an upright look instead of trailing.

Propagating Philodendron Micans

Micans propagates easily from stem cuttings.

How to propagate:

1. Cut a stem with at least 2 to 3 leaves and a node
2. Place in water or moist soil
3. Keep in bright, indirect light
4. Roots develop in 2 to 4 weeks
5. Transplant to soil once roots are 2 to 3 inches long

Micans roots so quickly you can propagate a single plant into a whole collection in months.

Common Problems

Leggy growth

Not enough light or needs pruning. Move to a brighter spot and prune to encourage bushier growth.

Yellow leaves

Overwatering or natural aging. Check soil moisture and drainage.

Brown tips

Underwatering or low humidity. Water more consistently.

Pests

Micans is pest-resistant but can attract spider mites or thrips. Wipe leaves regularly to prevent infestations.

Why Philodendron Micans Is Perfect for Beginners

• Tolerates lower light
• Forgiving if you miss a watering
• Grows fast
• Easy to propagate
• Pest-resistant
• Gorgeous, unique color

If you want a trailing plant that looks special but acts low-maintenance, micans is the answer.

What To Do Next

• If you love micans, propagate it and fill a hanging basket for a fuller look
• If you want another easy trailing plant, try Scindapsus pictus (satin pothos)
• If your micans is getting leggy, prune it back and propagate the cuttings