Arrowwood (Nephthytis) Vine

Arrowwood vine in Biltmore Conservatory, Asheville, NC

Arrowhead vine (Syngonium podophyllum), often called nephthytis, is a easy to grow trailing or vertical climbing house plant. It is indigenous to the Central and South America tropics and is botanically related to philodendron. Its 5-7 inch long leaves are arrowhead shape, with a dull pointed tip (apex) and two basal lobes. Foliage of modern day varieties come in more color choices, including silvery white, cream, and pale pink variegation. Plants grow more compact and foliage is disease resistant.

Arrowhead tolerates low winter light inside the home. Grow in a east facing window with room temperatures between 60-75°F and with moderate room humidity. Plant in a potting media having good drainage and keep media moist. Water less frequently in winter and periodically mist the foliage. Every 1-2 years, repot in early spring so plant never becomes root-bound.

If moved outdoors over the summer, keep arrowhead vine under heavy tree shade and adequately watered. In early fall move all tropical plants indoors before night temperatures fall below 40°F. From spring through fall, feed plant(s) every 2 weeks with a balanced house plant fertilizer such as Peters®, Daniels®, or Miracle-Gro® diluted by half the recommended package rate; do not fertilize over the winter months.

Arrowheads are constantly growing new leaves and shedding older ones. Prune out old straggly shoots and dying foliage at any time. At start of summer, cut older vine(s) back at least by two-thirds to refreshen their appearance. Use prunings to start new plants. To propagate, take a terminal stem tip cutting or stem segment containing a healthy node, leaf and petiole.

Newly purchased plants start out trailing. Within 6-12 months some developing stems turn upright and are easily trained as a climbing vine to a pole fashioned from osmunda fiber.

Caution: Sap of this plant may be toxic to pets and cause skin irritation. Wear protective gloves when working with arrowhead vine.