10 - 15cm Rhaphidophora Tenuis Silver House Plant 10,5 cm Pot

🌿 Rhaphidophora tenuis ‘Silver’ — Silver Shingle Plant

Rhaphidophora tenuis ‘Silver’, often known as the Silver Shingle Plant, is a rare and exotic aroid native to the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia. This striking climber is prized for its narrow, elongated juvenile leaves marked with subtle silvery variegation, giving it a sleek, modern aesthetic. When grown on a support, such as a moss pole or bark slab, the leaves neatly press against the surface in a shingling growth habit, creating a layered, architectural effect. As the plant matures, the foliage may develop deeper green tones and more pronounced fenestrations, depending on the environment. Like many in the Rhaphidophora genus, it thrives in warm, humid conditions with bright, indirect light. R. tenuis ‘Silver’ is ideal for collectors and design-forward interiors where vertical greenery is desired. Its compact form and slow growth make it perfect for smaller spaces, terrariums, and feature walls.

☀️ Light Requirements

• Indoors: Thrives in bright, indirect light. Will tolerate some filtered morning sun.

• Too much direct sun: May scorch leaves or fade variegation.

• Low light: Slows growth and reduces variegation; not ideal for shingling behaviour.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Ideal temperature: 18–28°C (64–82°F)

• Minimum temperature: Keep above 15°C (59°F); sensitive to cold draughts

• Humidity: High humidity preferred (60%+). Benefits from a pebble tray, misting, or humidifier.

💧 Watering Needs

• Watering frequency: Water when the top 2–4 cm of soil is dry. Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.

• Winter: Water less often, allowing more drying between waterings.

• Water tip: Use filtered or rainwater to prevent mineral build-up.

🪴 Soil & Repotting

• Soil type: Loose, well-aerated aroid mix — houseplant compost with orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir.

• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (5.5–7.0)

• Repotting: Every 1–2 years or when rootbound. Use a tall pot with a support for climbing.

🌱 Feeding

• Growing season (spring–summer): Feed every 4–6 weeks with a balanced, diluted liquid fertiliser.

• Autumn–winter: Reduce feeding to every 6–8 weeks or pause if growth slows.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Pruning: Minimal — remove any yellow or damaged leaves to maintain a tidy shape.

• Leaf care: Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth to keep them free of dust.

• Climbing support: Provide a moss pole, cork board, or wooden plank for optimal shingling growth.

🌾 Propagation

• Stem cuttings: Take a node-bearing cutting and root in water or moist moss. Best done in spring or summer.

• Humidity is essential for successful propagation — use a propagation box or sealed container.

🐛 Pests & Problems

• Common pests: Spider mites, mealybugs, and scale — especially in dry air.

• Symptoms: Yellowing leaves, sticky residue, webbing, or visible insects.

• Treatment: Isolate and treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Improve humidity and airflow.

• Common issues:

  • Leggy growth: Usually caused by low light.

  • Leaf curl or browning tips: Typically due to low humidity or inconsistent watering.

🧤 Toxicity & Safety

• Toxicity: Toxic if ingested by pets or humans. Contains calcium oxalates which can cause irritation.

• Precaution: Keep out of reach of pets and small children.

🏡 Indoor Care Highlights

• A rare, statement-making climbing plant perfect for moss poles, walls, or terrarium backgrounds.

• Combines beautifully with other climbing aroids like Monstera dubia, Scindapsus, and Philodendron micans.

• A low-maintenance collector’s piece once established in the right environment.

• Excellent for plant walls, vertical gardens, and modern interiors where form and texture are key.

• With patience and care, it transforms into a living work of art.