Syngonium macrophyllum aka Giant Arrowhead Vine

Syngonium macrophyllum is a vigorous climbing vine that can reach 1.8-3 meters (6-10 feet) tall indoors when provided with a support structure. In its native tropical habitat, it can climb to heights of 10-20 meters up trees. The plant spreads approximately 60 cm (2 feet) wide. What makes this species distinctive is its exceptionally large leaves—they can grow over 60 cm (2 feet) long, making them up to three times larger than common Syngonium varieties. Unlike other Syngonium species, the leaves maintain their bold arrow shape and do not segment as the plant matures.

Syngonium macrophyllum thrives in temperatures between 15°C and 24°C (59-75°F), with a tolerance range of 7-35°C (45-95°F). As a tropical plant from wet rainforest environments, it is sensitive to cold drafts and should be kept away from windows or doors that allow chilly air. Temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can cause damage, and frost is fatal. Maintain consistent warmth year-round for best growth.

Syngonium macrophyllum propagates easily through stem cuttings in water, soil, or sphagnum moss. Take a cutting at least 15 cm long with several leaves and at least one node (the point where new roots will emerge). For water propagation, place the cutting in a jar with the node submerged and change water every few days—roots typically appear within two weeks. You can also propagate through division by separating the rootball during repotting. The best time to propagate is during the growing season (spring through fall) when warmer temperatures encourage faster root development.

Prune Syngonium macrophyllum in spring or summer when the plant is actively growing and can recover quickly. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to cut back stems that have grown too long or in unwanted directions. To encourage bushier growth rather than vining, cut stems back to about 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) from the base and pinch off vine tips throughout the year. Regular pruning helps maintain a compact shape and can be combined with propagation—healthy cuttings can be rooted to create new plants. Always wear gloves when pruning, as the white sap contains irritating calcium oxalate crystals.

Repot Syngonium macrophyllum every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound (roots circling the pot or growing from drainage holes). Spring is the ideal time for repotting. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one—too large a pot can lead to waterlogged soil and root rot. Use fresh, well-draining potting mix with perlite or coco coir. Handle the roots gently as they are sensitive to disturbance. Water thoroughly after repotting and keep the plant in moderate light for a few weeks while it recovers.

Syngonium macrophyllum can produce flowers, but blooming is rare in indoor cultivation. When it does flower, the plant produces the characteristic aroid inflorescence: a spadix (fleshy spike) surrounded by a spathe (modified leaf). The flowers appear in summer as green spathes that turn cream-colored, sometimes marked with red or purple. Syngonium macrophyllum is noted for producing pink flowers. The flowers are pollinated by beetles in nature, with the inflorescence heating up and releasing scent to attract pollinators. Flowering typically only occurs on mature climbing vines.

The most popular cultivar of Syngonium macrophyllum is 'Frosted Heart', also sold as 'Ice Frost'. This variety features stunning silvery-white variegation over the green leaves, creating a frosted or icy appearance. The leaves have a velvety texture and the distinctive large, heart-shaped form of the species. The standard species form has leaves with an unusual green to glaucous (silvery-blue) coloration and a rubber-like texture when mature. Both forms are prized by collectors for their dramatic, oversized foliage that distinguishes them from common Syngonium varieties.

Syngonium macrophyllum can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10-12, where temperatures remain above 10°C (50°F) year-round. In its native range from southern Mexico to Ecuador, it grows as a climbing vine in the understory of tropical rainforests, thriving in the shade of trees. Outdoors, provide a shaded location with protection from direct sun and wind. The plant needs consistent humidity and moisture. In cooler climates, it must be grown as a houseplant or moved indoors before temperatures drop in autumn.

Clean the large leaves of Syngonium macrophyllum regularly to remove dust and maintain their distinctive sheen. Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth or soft sponge, supporting each leaf from underneath to avoid damage. For thorough cleaning, give the plant a tepid shower every few weeks. Regular cleaning also helps prevent pest infestations by removing spider mite eggs and other pests. Avoid using leaf shine products, which can clog the pores (stomata) and interfere with the plant's natural processes. Wear gloves when handling, as the sap can cause skin irritation.

The most common pests affecting Syngonium macrophyllum are spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, and aphids. Spider mites cause yellowing leaves and fine webbing—increase humidity and treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Mealybugs appear as white cottony masses and can be removed with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab. Scale insects look like raised bumps on stems and leaves. Root rot is the main disease concern, caused by overwatering and poor drainage. Prevent issues by maintaining good humidity, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings, and inspecting new plants before introducing them to your collection.

Yellow leaves on Syngonium macrophyllum typically indicate overwatering, which causes root stress and prevents proper nutrient uptake. Check that your pot has drainage holes and the soil isn't staying waterlogged. Other causes include underwatering (older leaves yellow first), too much direct sunlight (causes bleaching), nutrient deficiency (feed during growing season), or natural aging of lower leaves. If yellowing is accompanied by mushy stems or foul smell, root rot may have developed—repot in fresh soil after trimming affected roots.

Brown leaf tips and edges on Syngonium macrophyllum usually indicate low humidity or underwatering. This tropical plant originates from humid rainforests and prefers humidity levels of 50% or higher. Increase humidity by misting regularly, using a pebble tray, grouping plants together, or running a humidifier. Brown crispy patches can also result from too much direct sunlight, fertilizer burn (flush soil and reduce feeding), or cold drafts. Brown spots with yellow halos may indicate a fungal or bacterial infection—remove affected leaves and improve air circulation.

Drooping leaves on Syngonium macrophyllum most commonly indicate thirst—check the soil and water thoroughly if it's dry. The plant should perk up within a few hours after watering. Paradoxically, overwatering can also cause drooping as waterlogged roots can't function properly. If the soil is wet and the plant droops, check for root rot and repot in fresh, well-draining soil. Other causes include temperature stress (too cold or hot), transplant shock after repotting, or root-bound conditions requiring a larger pot.

Caring for Giant Arrowhead Vine is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Giant Arrowhead Vine’s native range is Central America.

Giant Arrowhead Vine should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Giant Arrowhead Vine loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

To ensure optimal growth, the Giant Arrowhead Vine prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

The Giant Arrowhead Vine does not need extra humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their root system, making soil watering the best way to provide humidity to your plants.

The Giant Arrowhead Vine should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

During the cold period, it is common for Giant Arrowhead Vine to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.