Family: Araceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Philodendron giganteum, commonly known as giant philodendron, is a large tropical aroid native to the Caribbean and northern South America, ranging from the Caribbean islands to Brazil (Pará). This striking ornamental plant is prized for its enormous heart-shaped leaves, lush tropical appearance, and vigorous growth habit. It is commonly grown in shaded landscapes, botanical collections, and as a dramatic indoor or patio plant in warm climates. Like many philodendrons, it thrives in humid conditions with rich, well-drained soils and is valued for creating a bold tropical aesthetic.

Risks & Threats
Although Philodendron giganteum is not currently known to be naturalized in Hawaii, it possesses traits that are cause for concern, including rapid vegetative growth, tolerance of deep shade, and the ability to spread in favorable tropical environments. These characteristics could allow it to persist beyond cultivation in moist forested habitats or disturbed areas. While there is currently limited evidence of ecological impacts in Hawaii, ongoing evaluation is needed to determine whether this species could become invasive or negatively impact native ecosystems. Gardeners are encouraged to plant responsibly, monitor for unwanted spread, and consider low-risk or native alternatives when appropriate.

High Risk Traits:

• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Invasive in abandoned farmland
  
• All parts of plant are poisonous
  
• Shade-tolerant
  
• Can smother other vegetation
  
• Capable of spreading vegetatively
  
• Seeds potentially bird-dispersed

Low Risk Traits:

• Reports of invasiveness are from within native range. No evidence of naturalization or invasiveness outside native range reported to date
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
  
• Valued as an ornamental
  
• Not likely to form a persistent seed bank