Full Specimen Plate
Philodendron tenue
Ribbed Tenue Philodendron
Aroid Atlas Price Guide
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Pricing Data Key
Community price estimate based on limited sales history
Market Analysis
Philodendron tenue Price Guide & Auction Value
Historical eBay auction metrics and live retailer listings updated weekly.
No eBay auction history available yet. Data is collected automatically as sales appear on eBay UK.
Before You Buy
Species-specific things to check when evaluating a listing
- Check that roots are firm and white to tan — avoid plants with black, slimy, or absent roots
- Inspect leaf undersides for thrips (tiny dark specks or silvery streaking) and mealybugs (white cottony deposits at leaf axils)
- Verify the plant has at least 2–3 healthy leaves and shows signs of active growth
- For listings showing only one photo, request images of the roots, underside of leaves, and any new growth before purchasing
Philodendron tenue Morphology
About Philodendron tenue
Philodendron tenue is a climbing hemiepiphytic aroid native to the tropical wet forests of Central and South America, from Costa Rica to Ecuador. It climbs tree trunks using aerial roots, thriving in high humidity. The leaves are highly ornamental, featuring a elongated heart-shaped blade with a deeply ribbed or pleated surface due to closely spaced primary lateral veins. The foliage is glossy, dark green, and has a leathery, durable feel.
Native Range
Costa Rica
Propagation Guide
How to Propagate Philodendron tenue
Single-node cuttings root readily in moist sphagnum or water. Maintain 70%+ humidity and bottom warmth for best results.
Care Guide
Philodendron tenue Care Guide & Growing Conditions
High-porosity mix: 50% perlite, 30% orchid bark, 20% coco coir. Good aeration is essential — philodendrons are prone to root rot in dense substrates.
Water thoroughly when the top 3–4 cm of substrate is dry. Ensure free drainage and never allow to sit in water. Reduce frequency in winter.
60–80% preferred. UK tap water can cause brown tips — use rainwater or filtered water where possible.
Balanced liquid fertiliser (e.g. 20-20-20) at quarter strength every two weeks in spring and summer. Monthly at most in winter.
Every 12–18 months or when roots circle the base of the pot. Move up one pot size only — oversized pots increase rot risk.
Common Problems
Brown leaf tips
Low humidity or fluoride/chlorine in tap water
Increase ambient humidity and switch to rainwater or filtered water
Yellow leaves
Overwatering or compacted substrate
Allow substrate to dry further between waterings; check root health and repot if necessary
Leggy growth with small leaves
Insufficient light
Move to a brighter position with more indirect light
Slender Costa Rican Climber
Tenue means 'slender' or 'delicate' — an apt description of a Philodendron that grows through Costa Rica to Ecuador in a lean, elongated climbing habit. At accessible price tier. Not the most dramatic Philodendron in the collection, but worth growing for the slender habit and the way it occupies space on a climbing structure differently from the larger-leaved species. A background plant that performs a supporting role in a collection.
