The starter plant you will receive is growing in a 2.5" pot, similar to the second photo. Leaves become darker as the plant matures. Black Cardinal has glossy bronze and blackish green leaves with lush foliage . A low growing, clumping house plant, this philodendron is "self heading", meaning it does not climb or sprawl like a vine. The leaves are broadly oval or truly lance-shaped, emerging light orange or bronze. They slowly mature to a deeper, truly dark green with inclination to nearly black, and oldest leaves on the lowest part of the plant darkest and dullest. Flowers can arise during the warm months at anytime, being a blackish-red, cloak-like wrapping spathe around a white, finger-like spadix. Environment Philodendron Black Cardinal is one of the easiest of all house plants to grow. It is very vigorous grower that can take a wide range of conditions. Grow Black Cardinal philodendron in well-draining, moist, fertile soils in partial shade. Avoid alkaline soil at all cost. Too much light and the leaves become more pale or simply dry and brown. Too low humidity or soil moisture can cause leaf browning, too, but also note that philodendrons do not like soggy or cold soils. During growing, fertilize with slow-release fertilizer or use a 20-20-20 liquid fertilizer at half-strength every 2 weeks. Measurements are approximate
