PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN NEInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Not Evaluated — not yet assessed against the IUCN Red List criteria.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Philodendron radiatum
Radiated Philodendron
Schott
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A large, vigorous tropical climbing vine or hemiepiphyte. It features spectacular, deeply lobed or pinnatifid leaves that can reach immense sizes, growing in a starburst or radiating pattern. Strong aerial roots emerge from thick stems to anchor it securely to host trees.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Liliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Alismatales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Araceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Philodendron
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.Schott
Record Completeness
85%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Unknown
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
Herbivore
Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
--
Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
Native to the dense tropical rainforests of Mexico, Central America, and parts of northern South America. It thrives in hot, highly humid environments, typically climbing trunks and large branches in the lower to middle forest understory under filtered light.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
It behaves as an aggressive vertical climber. Once the root system is well-established, it quickly ascends its host tree toward better light layers, shifting its foliage morphology from small entire leaves to deeply divided adult blades.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
300.0 - 900.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
The deeply incised segments of the large leaf blades allow heavy tropical downpours and strong understory drafts to pass through without tearing the delicate foliage, while maintaining a large surface area for photosynthesis.
Develops a multi-layered aerial root system: some act as strong anchors to latch onto tree bark, while others grow long downwards until they reach the forest floor to absorb additional nutrients and water.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Habitat fragmentation and widespread deforestation within its native tropical zones due to commercial logging, highway building, and clear-cutting for livestock pasture.
Poaching of mature specimens directly from protected tropical areas to supply the high-end exotic ornamental plant market.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
When a juvenile plant emerges from the dark forest floor, it exhibits skototropism, growing toward the deepest shadow in its surroundings, which safely guides it toward the base of the nearest large tree trunk.