Philodendron rugosum Aberrant

Philodendron rugosum 'Aberrant' or aberrant form Philodendron rugosum is also affectionately nicknamed "Pig Skin" due to the thick, distorted texture of its highly unusual leaves. Provide it with a support or climbing structure, and watch as its leaves twist and curl. This houseplant thrives in moderate light without direct sunlight, high humidity, and a well-draining substrate.

Belonging to the Araceae family, Philodendron rugosum 'Aberrant' is a form of the P. rugosum species, native to Ecuador (though the aberrant form may originate from Asia). It grows in subtropical or tropical mountain rainforests. While P. rugosum produces rough, monochrome leaves, 'Aberrant' develops very large, smooth leaves at maturity, shaped like spikes, with all the wrinkles and ridges of a pig's ear. The mature leaves are extremely thick, leathery, and distorted, slightly elongated with a very visible wavy margin. The centre is light green along the central vein, fading to a darker green towards the outer edge. As the young plant matures, the leaves may develop fenestrations or holes along the edges. This climbing plant reaches 60 cm to 1 m in height. Like many philodendrons, it is toxic if ingested due to calcium oxalate crystals.

Philodendron rugosum 'Aberrant' should be trained on a sphagnum moss pole or trellis. To enhance its peculiar aesthetic, pair it with plants sharing similar needs, such as Alocasias or Syngoniums, also members of the Araceae family.