Philodendron sp. 96898 is a rare, unidentified or not-yet-formally-described Philodendron, often referred to by its collection or accession number. Many plants in the Araceae family are distributed under collection numbers before they are fully classified, and this makes them especially desirable among serious aroid collectors.

This Philodendron is admired for its unusual foliage, which typically features large, glossy leaves with deeply lobed or elongated shapes (appearance may vary depending on growing conditions and the exact collection). The leaves are a rich green with pronounced venation, giving the plant a bold, tropical presence. As the plant matures, the leaf size and lobing become more dramatic, making it an excellent statement species.

Like many Philodendrons, sp. 96898 is a climbing variety, producing aerial roots and thriving when given a moss pole or climbing board. Mature specimens in the right environment can produce impressive foliage that sets it apart from more common Philodendron varieties.

Philodendron sp. 96898 – Care Guide

Light

Requires bright, indirect light. Too little light will slow growth and reduce leaf size, while direct sunlight may scorch the leaves.

Watering

Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry. Keep evenly moist in the growing season but avoid waterlogging. Reduce watering slightly in autumn and winter.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Thrives in 18–28°C. Avoid prolonged exposure below 15°C.

• Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity (60–80%). Mist occasionally or use a humidifier in dry environments.

Soil and Potting

Use a chunky, well-draining aroid mix – peat-free compost combined with orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir. Repot every 1–2 years in spring to refresh the mix and allow for healthy root growth.

Feeding

Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every 4 weeks in spring and summer. Stop feeding in winter when growth slows.

Pruning and Maintenance

Prune lightly to control shape and encourage branching. Remove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base.

Growth and Maturity

A moderately fast grower. With a moss pole or climbing support, it produces increasingly larger and more defined leaves as it matures.

Common Issues

• Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.

• Leggy growth: Insufficient light.

• Brown edges: Low humidity or inconsistent watering.

• Pests: Occasionally thrips, mealybugs, or spider mites.

Background and Benefits

Philodendron species are widely distributed across tropical America, and new forms or hybrids are frequently introduced into cultivation under numbers like 96898. These identifiers often come from botanical collections, research stations, or growers, and represent plants that may not yet have a formal scientific description. Collectors prize them for their rarity, mystery, and potential uniqueness.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect; avoid direct sun

• Water: Keep lightly moist; let topsoil dry slightly

• Temperature: 18–28°C; avoid below 15°C

• Humidity: Moderate to high (60–80%)

• Soil: Chunky, free-draining aroid mix

• Feed: Monthly in spring/summer

• Growth: Climbing Philodendron with large, glossy, lobed leaves