Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight, also known as the Sterling Silver, is a species of aroid plant that belongs to the Araceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia and is prized for its beautiful, heart-shaped leaves that are variegated with silver and green.
With its unique and stunning appearance, Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight is a popular indoor plant that adds a touch of sophistication and beauty to any room. However, caring for this plant can be a challenge for those who are new to gardening. That’s why a comprehensive guide on Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight is necessary, so you can keep your plant healthy and beautiful for years to come.
Origin of Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight
Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight is native to Southeast Asia, specifically in the countries of Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia. The plant grows in the wild in tropical rainforests and is known for its aerial roots that allow it to climb up trees and receive adequate sunlight.
The plant was first discovered in the late 19th century and was named after the Dutch botanist, Melchior Treub. It wasn’t until the 21st century that Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight became popular as an indoor plant in Western countries, where it quickly gained popularity due to its beauty and low maintenance requirements.
Unique Features of Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight
The leaves of Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight are its most recognizable feature. They are large, heart-shaped, and variegated with silver and green. The leaves can grow up to 10 inches long and 8 inches wide, giving the plant a lush, tropical appearance.
Another distinctive feature of Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight is its aerial roots, which are roots that grow above the soil and allow the plant to climb. These roots not only provide the plant with support but also absorb moisture and nutrients from the air.
In addition to its leaves and roots, Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight is also known for its striking appearance. The plant has a vine-like habit, with long stems that can grow up to several feet in length. When grown in ideal conditions, the plant will produce small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom year-round.
Care Tips for Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight
Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight Sunlight Requirements
Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, causing them to yellow and fade. If you want to keep your plant healthy and vibrant, place it near a window that receives plenty of natural light but is shaded by a sheer curtain. If you don’t have access to natural light, you can use fluorescent lighting to supplement your plant’s needs. However, make sure to avoid placing the plant in a room that has low light, as this can cause the leaves to become smaller and the plant to grow spindly.
Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight Soil Requirements
Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. A good potting mix for this plant would be a combination of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, and should have good aeration to allow for proper root development. When potting the plant, make sure to use a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from standing in the soil for too long. You may also want to add a layer of coarse sand or gravel to the bottom of the pot to improve drainage.
Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight Water Requirements
Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight prefers to be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. To avoid overwatering, make sure the soil drains well and only water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. A good rule of thumb is to water the plant once a week, but adjust the frequency depending on the humidity and temperature in your home. During the winter months, you may need to water the plant less frequently, as the plant will slow its growth and use less water.
Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight Humidity Requirements
Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight prefers a high level of humidity, as it is native to a tropical rainforest environment. If you live in an area with low humidity, you can increase the humidity around your plant by placing a humidifier near it or by misting the leaves regularly. You can also place a tray of water near the plant and add rocks to the tray to raise the plant up, creating a humid microclimate. Make sure the bottom of the pot is not in direct contact with the water, as this can lead to root rot.
Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight Temperature Requirements
Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight is a relatively hardy plant that can tolerate a range of temperatures. Ideally, it should be kept in an environment with temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 30°C). However, it can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) and as high as 90°F (32°C) for short periods of time.
It is important to keep in mind that sudden changes in temperature can stress the plant, so it’s best to avoid exposing it to drastic temperature fluctuations. Additionally, if the temperature in your home is consistently below 60°F (15°C) or above 90°F (32°C), it’s best to provide additional protection, such as placing the plant near a window or using a grow light, to help it thrive.
Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight Fertilizer Requirements
Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight benefits from regular feeding during the growing season, which is typically from spring to fall. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 formula, can be used every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. It’s best to dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength and apply it after watering the plant. During the winter months, when the plant is dormant, you can reduce the frequency of fertilization or stop altogether. Over-fertilizing can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which can be harmful to the plant.
Pruning Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight
- Gather your tools: Before you begin pruning your Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight, gather a pair of clean, sharp pruning shears and a small trash bag or compost bin.
- Identify which stems to prune: Look for stems that are yellowing, browning, or have become leggy. These stems can be removed to encourage new growth and maintain the plant’s shape.
- Make the cut: Using your pruning shears, make a clean cut just above a leaf node (the point on the stem where leaves grow). Make sure the cut is just above the node to encourage new growth from that point.
- Repeat as necessary: Continue to remove yellowing, browning, or leggy stems until you’re satisfied with the shape and appearance of the plant.
- Clean up: Place the pruned stems in your trash bag or compost bin and dispose of them properly.
- Water the plant: After pruning, water the plant to help it recover and promote new growth.
Note: It’s best to prune your Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight during the growing season when the plant is putting energy into new growth. Pruning during the dormant winter months can slow down new growth and weaken the plant.
Repotting Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight
Repotting your Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight is important to ensure its continued health and growth. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to repot your plant:
- Gather materials: To repot your Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight, you will need a new, larger pot, fresh potting mix, and a soil moistening agent (such as perlite or peat moss).
- Water the plant: Water the plant thoroughly several hours before you plan to repot it. This will make it easier to remove the plant from its current pot without damaging its roots.
- Remove the plant from its pot: Gently turn the pot on its side and gently squeeze the sides to loosen the roots. Then, carefully remove the plant from the pot.
- Check the roots: Examine the roots of the plant to see if any are diseased or damaged. If so, gently trim them away with clean, sharp pruning shears.
- Fill the new pot with soil: Fill the new pot about a third of the way with the fresh potting mix. Then, add a layer of the soil moistening agent to the bottom of the pot.
- Place the plant in the new pot: Place the plant in the new pot, making sure that the top of the soil in the old pot is level with the top of the soil in the new pot.
- Fill the pot with soil: Fill the pot with the remaining potting mix, gently firming it around the roots of the plant. Be sure to leave enough room at the top of the pot for water to be added.
- Water the plant: Water the plant thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Be sure to allow the water to drain away from the pot to prevent root rot.
- Place the plant in bright, indirect light: Place the repotted Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight in bright, indirect light. Gradually increase the amount of direct sunlight it receives over the next several days.
By repotting your Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight every 1-2 years, you can ensure that it continues to grow and thrive.
Propagating Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight
- Gather materials: To propagate your Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight, you will need a healthy stem cutting, a rooting hormone, a clean container, and a well-draining soil mix.
- Take stem cuttings: Choose a healthy stem that is at least 6 inches long and has several leaves. Cut the stem just below a leaf node using clean, sharp pruning shears.
- Apply rooting hormone: Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone to encourage root growth.
- Fill container with soil: Fill your container with the well-draining soil mix and make a hole in the center.
- Plant the stem cutting: Place the stem cutting into the hole in the soil, making sure that the cut end is buried about an inch deep.
- Water the cutting: Water the cutting lightly to settle the soil around it. Be careful not to over-water, as this can cause the cutting to rot before it has a chance to root.
- Create a humid environment: Place a plastic bag over the container to create a humid environment for the cutting. This will help to keep the soil moist and encourage root growth.
- Monitor for growth: Keep an eye on the cutting for the next several weeks and water it as needed. You should see new growth appearing in 4-6 weeks, indicating that the cutting has rooted successfully.
- Remove the plastic bag: Once the cutting has rooted and new growth is visible, remove the plastic bag and place the container in bright, indirect light. Continue to care for the cutting as you would a mature Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight plant.
Where to Buy?
You can find an affordable option by visiting Etsy, there you can find also cuttings. I get most of my plants from there. You can check out the prices and sellers’ reviews and decide if you want to try this option instead of other places where you will be paying much more.                                   Â
Common Pests & Ilnesses of Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight
Like many other plants, Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight can be susceptible to a variety of pests and illnesses. Some of the most common include:
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny spider-like pests that feed on the sap of plants. They can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves and stunted growth. To control spider mites, regularly rinse the plant with water or use a pesticide specifically designed for spider mites.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, cottony pests that feed on the sap of plants. They can cause yellowing of the leaves, stunted growth, and a sticky residue on the leaves and stem. To control mealybugs, use a pesticide specifically designed for mealybugs or try wiping the pests off the plant with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
- Root Rot: Root rot is a common illness that occurs when the plant is overwatered or grown in soil that doesn’t drain well. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and a mushy texture to the roots. To control root rot, improve the soil drainage and reduce the frequency of watering. In severe cases, the plant may need to be removed and the soil replaced.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal illness that causes a white, powdery growth on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can cause yellowing and stunted growth. To control powdery mildew, provide good air circulation around the plant, water it at the roots, and use a fungicide specifically designed for powdery mildew.
By being vigilant and taking care of your Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight, you can help prevent and control these common pests and illnesses.
Is Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight Toxic?
Like many other plants in the Araceae family, Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can be toxic to humans and animals if ingested. Symptoms of calcium oxalate poisoning include oral irritation, burning, and itching of the mouth, lips, and tongue, as well as difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
In pets, ingestion of this plant can cause more severe symptoms, including drooling, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting. In severe cases, it can lead to respiratory distress and even death.
It’s important to keep Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight out of reach of children and pets, especially if they have a tendency to put plants in their mouths. Additionally, it’s a good idea to wash your hands after handling the plant to avoid any skin irritation or contact with the calcium oxalate crystals.
Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight FAQ
Water your Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. It is best to water the plant thoroughly, allowing the water to drain away from the pot, and then allowing the soil to dry out before watering again.
Your Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight should be placed in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it is best to protect the plant from direct sun.
Fertilize your Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. In the winter, when the plant is not actively growing, you can reduce the frequency of fertilization.
Repot your Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight every 1-2 years, or when it has outgrown its pot.
Common pests that can affect your Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Common diseases include root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
Scindapsus Treubii Moonlight can be propagated by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in water or moist soil.
You may want to read these posts:
How to Grow Dill Indoors
When it comes to choosing the right container for indoor dill growth, there are a few factors to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to ensure that the container has adequate drainage holes at the bottom. Dill plants don’t like sitting in waterlogged soil, so good drainage is essential for their overall health and growth.… Read More »
How to Grow Lemongrass Indoors
When it comes to planting lemongrass, there are a few basic steps you need to follow. First and foremost, choose the right pot for your lemongrass plant. Make sure it has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging. A pot that is 12-16 inches in diameter should be sufficient for one plant.… Read More »
How to Grow Lemon Balm Indoors
When it comes to choosing the right pot for your lemon balm plant, size does matter. Lemon balm has a tendency to spread and grow vigorously, so it’s important to provide enough space for its roots to develop. Opt for a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has drainage holes at the bottom. This will ensure that excess water can escape and prevent root rot.… Read More »
How to Grow Rosemary Indoors
When choosing the right location for your rosemary plant, it’s important to consider its natural habitat. Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean region, where it thrives in warm and sunny climates. Therefore, it’s best to place your rosemary plant in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. This could be a south-facing window or a sunny spot on your patio or balcony.… Read More »
How to Grow Thyme Indoors
When it comes to choosing the right thyme variety for indoor growth, there are a few factors to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to select a variety that is well-suited for container gardening. Compact varieties such as ‘French,’ ‘English,’ or ‘Creeping’ thyme work best in small spaces. These varieties have a bushy growth habit and can tolerate being grown in pots.… Read More »
How to Grow Cilantro Indoors
When it comes to growing cilantro indoors, choosing the right container is crucial for its successful growth. The container should be spacious enough to accommodate the roots of the plant and allow for proper drainage. A good option is a pot with drainage holes at the bottom, which will prevent water from accumulating and causing root rot. Additionally, consider using a lightweight container that can be easily moved around to provide optimal sunlight exposure.… Read More »
- How to Grow Dill Indoors - September 14, 2023
- How to Grow Lemongrass Indoors - September 14, 2023
- How to Grow Lemon Balm Indoors - September 14, 2023
