Rhaphidophora Hayi, also called the shingle plant, also known as shingle vine, is one of the rare and beautiful tropical houseplants with a shingling pattern that has experienced a rise in popularity since it was made one of Costa Farm’s Trending Tropicals Collection.
In a shingle, we refer to the stems tightly arranged to the top of the climbing surface, with leaves laid flat on the surface, which is why they resemble green roofing shingles. Some other adorable shingling plants are Rhaphidophora the cryptantha, Rhaphidophora korthalsii, Rhaphidophora pachyphylla, or Monstera dubia.
We are sure you will be enthralled by its oval dark green leaves and the habit of growing shingle on this Rhaphidophora tree. It will also provide a fantastic tropical backdrop to your garden or home. Did you know that this plant also a cleaner of air?
Find out more information about R. hayi, including its description (appearance and growth habits) and how to care for it (light soil fertilizer, watering, temperature, humidity, etc.). We’ll also teach how to grow it, what it is and how it differs from Philodendron Korthalsii, and lots more.
Quick Overview Of Rhaphidophora Hayi
Table of Contents
The scientific name | Rhaphidophora hayi |
Family | The Arum family Araceae (aroids) Aglaonemas are another popular aroid monsteras, philodendrons Pothos ZZ plant species, and so on. |
The most common names | Shingle plant |
Native habitat | Queensland, New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and the Bismarck Archipelago. |
Type | Tropical, evergreen, perennial, flowering, shingling hemiepiphytes |
Size | In its natural habitat, it can grow 30 feet (10m) in height or greater. In the home, it can only reach about 5 feet |
Leaves | Shingling up to six inches of oval, dark green leaves |
Stems | Green rectangle-shaped to terete vines that have short nodes |
Light requirements | Light that is bright and indirect, however, it is possible to be tolerant of light levels that are lower. |
USDA hardiness zone | 11 to 12 |
Temperature | 60degF-80degF, but not frost-hardy |
Humidity | High (60 percent or more) however, it can tolerate lower humidity levels in the home. It will however be a fan of misting, pebble trays or humidifiers |
Rate of growth | Medium |
Soil | High organic matter, well-drained soil mix or pot mix |
Watering | Medium, let the top two to three inches of the soil feel dry |
Propagation | Cutting of the stem |
Toxicity | Toxic to animals and humans |
Care level | Easy or low |
Identification Description and appearance
Before we discuss how to care for it, let us begin by discussing the appearance of this plant’s size, shape, and growth habits.
1. Natural habitat and conditions for growth
Rhaphidophora Hayiis an emerald, tropical lowland coralline limestone, and a basalt rainforest Aroid. It is prevalent throughout Papua New Guinea, Indonesian Papua, Queensland, and Australia. Within Papua New Guinea, you can find the species within Bougainville, New Ireland, Muyua (Woodlark Island), New Britain, and so on.
This Aroid belongs to perennial, perennial, climbing Hemiepiphytes. This means that it spends a significant portion of its time as an epiphyte (grows over other species) and as a terrestrial planet, or the liana (has roots in the soil).
You’ll generally find it shingling onto trees’ branches, rocks, or any other structure. The stem grows close or close to the support’s vertical, and the leaves are laid flat against the support, creating a rich dark green shingle.
Then, the Rhaphidophora Hayi development rate remains moderate, and the growth conditions significantly impact the growth rate. It will grow significantly more quickly in an enviable warm, humid, and warm environment with moist soil.
2. Size
In the natural environment, R. Hayi can reach 32 feet (about 10 meters) or even. There is no limit to its size. In your garden or your home, it might not get that tall. You can expect it to be a couple of feet, similar to five feet.
3. The shingle leaf plant leaves
The first thing to note is that Rhaphidophora Hayi has smaller to moderate (1 5-inch) oval leaves that are dark green. When it is they are young, the leaves are smaller. But, once these aroids gain vertical support and shingle on their leaves, they grow larger.
The leaves, in addition, are short in their petioles, ascend upwards, and generally overlap, particularly when they become larger. Even though they’re smaller, they’re less tightly organized.
Another essential characteristic of this plant is that the leaves do not change in morphology between juvenile and adulthood. There aren’t any fenestrations or splits like with some Aroids. They do, however, grow more prominent.
The leaves are typically flat, pressed against the support, and don’t sway outwards like most climbing vines.
4. Stems
The shingle plant is an elongated to terete shape, with smooth green stems or vines with short internode space.
The stems also have alternately expanding leaves (distichous) and attaching aerial roots to the internodes, which are black dots as they grow.
5. Flowers
As with other aroids, Rhaphidophora Hayi is Aroid with inflorescences borne by spadix. The spadix is robust and cigar-shaped. It is yellow and has a boat-shaped spathe.
Where to plant Rhaphidophora Hayi?
Rhaphidophora Hayimake is an ideal indoor houseplant and plant for patios, gardens, parks, or ground-covering plants.
Indoors you could cultivate in pots in hanging baskets or even in Terrariums (which allows for the most effective control of humidity and other environmental conditions). They’re perfect for any space, i.e., the kitchen, dining area or office, bedroom, bathroom, or even the living room.
If you’d like them to grow taller with bigger leaves, allow them to learn to climb onto the support.
Usually, burlap-wrapped coco coir, Sphagnum moss poles, or flat boards are the most effective (porous and helps grow roots, while flat gives the best results in shingling).
, However, you can have a softwood that has not been treated, a branch, trellis, ironbark totem, or any other object you can climb on.
If they are outdoors, ensure they aren’t exposed to direct sunlight. You can put shingles on the wall, tree trunks, fences made of wood, and so on.
Rhaphidophora Hayi care and the requirement for growth
Contrary to what you have been told, Rhaphidophora hayi is an easy-to-care-for low-maintenance garden and houseplant.
The most important thing to be aware of is that as an arid, lowland rainforest plant, they thrive in humid and moist conditions. Additionally, their soil needs to be well-drained, well-rich, and well-aerated.
Here are the specifics.
USDA hardiness zone
Rhaphidophora hayi USDA hardiness zone is10 to 12. Their cold hardiness ranges from 40-50 degF (+4.4 degrees Celsius to +7.2 degrees Celsius). The people living in these areas can grow this Aroid outdoors throughout the year. However, they must fulfill other requirements for growth.
Rhaphidophora Hayi Temperature
Rhaphidophora Hayilove warm environments thrive in temperatures of 55-80 degrees Fahrenheit (13 to 27 degrees Celsius). Average household temperatures are acceptable.
Also, be aware that tropical aroids aren’t frost-resistant and can’t withstand freezing temperatures.
If you live in areas that experience cold winters, you should bring your plants indoors when temperatures drop below the 50-degree mark (10degC). If not, you can expect damage to the foliage and slow growth.
Also, do not place your furniture in areas with an unwelcome cold draft or in areas that have sudden temperature fluctuations.
Rhaphidophora hayi humidity
The ideal humidity levels for Rhaphidophora Hayiis are higher than average, usually 60% – 70% or more. In their natural habitat, they thrive in humid environments.
Although they appear to do well in regions with below average humidity, i.e., 40% or more, They will also benefit from additional. Thus, when you place them in a pot with other plants, think about misting, a pebble tray, or a humidifier if they reside in a dry area.
You can also have such plants in your kitchen, greenhouse cabinets, or terrarium. There, you can easily regulate the humidity as well as other conditions.
Finally, leaves could change color or turn yellow if they are kept in low humidity conditions. They can also curl in drought conditions.
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Rhaphidophora Hayi Light Requiremnets
Rhaphidophora hayi is a fan of direct Light with a bright glare, but it can thrive in low to medium Light.
But, they are slow to grow or leggy in poor lighting conditions. The leaves could turn yellow in extreme circumstances. The dark places require the usage of growing lights. These plants aren’t afraid of artificial lighting.
But, you shouldn’t place your plants in direct sunlight. The scorching sun could be able to burn or bleach the leaves, i.e., make their edges and tips dry and brown.
When deciding the best place to put your plants, ensure they receive enough bright indirect Light without allowing direct sunlight.
If you want to grow Rhaphidophora Hayi outside in the shade, choose a location (filtered by Light) and a 30- to 40 percent shade cloth. Amazon is full of.
Rhaphidophora hayi soil Mixture
Rhaphidophora Hayisoil is best suited to well-drained soil, somewhat acidic (pH 6.0-6.5) with high organic matter or nutrient-rich. These plants aren’t so demanding, and you can use loamy soil that is well-drained or potting mix, such as soilless.
All you need to ensure is that your potting mixture is well-drained, aerated, and has a high content of nutrients.
Therefore, you can search for Aroid mixes, sphagnum LECA, coco peat, or make your own. For instance, you could mix equal parts of perlite/pumice potting mix and peat moss. Peat moss is a great way to increase pH and add humus-rich soil, while perlite will increase drainage.
Rhaphidophora Hayi Watering
Rhaphidophora Hayi has moderate water requirements. They are fond of moist soil, but not too that it is soggy or wet that it could lead to root decay. Also, do not let it get too dry, as it can hinder growth and cause curls to leaves.
It is important to water these shingle plants whenever the top 2-3 inches of the soil feel dry. It is typically within a week or so during the growing season (spring and summer).
The exact timing will be determined by indoor conditions, such as the temperature, humidity, lighting, etc.
In non-growing seasons, limit the watering frequency to once twice a week. You can do this until the entire soil is almost dry. This shouldn’t be a major problem.
After watering, soak them in water until the excess is released from drain holes. If the excess water dries on a saucer or bowl, remove it.
If you own a sphagnum-moss pole, you just mist it frequently.
Overwatered Rhaphidophora hayi
A pot that is too big or soil that is not draining correctly or overwatering can result in overwatering. If it is not addressed early enough, it can cause root rot, which can cause the plant to die.
Signs of a deficiency in water Rhaphidophora Hayi and shingle vines can be seen in the form of green leaves and soil feeling soggy and wet.
Other indicators to be aware of include a mushy stem base, the potting mix being spongy, and the leaves are the leaves falling and the leaves wilting.
Underwatered Rhaphidophora Hayi
When underwatered, R. Hayi leaves can curl, change color, or appear with crisp edges or tips that are brown. The soil will also dry, and the plant will grow slowly
Rhaphidophora Hayi Fertilizer
Fertilizers and plant food can help to increase the growth rate and ensure that your plant’s shingle looks lush. So, you should fertilize your Rhaphidophora Hayi biweekly throughout the growing season by using an all-purpose fertilizer available for your houseplants.
Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food indoor Plant Food All-Purpose House Plant Fertilize or any other good brand can do the job. Follow the directions. Some individuals prefer a slow-release formula. It’s okay as well. You can use it for the springtime period.
But, in winter or autumn (non-growing seasons), Don’t fertilize your plants. Don’t overuse fertilizers that can cause reduced growth, burnt and dry leaf edges, wilting, or even death.
Rhaphidophora Hayi Grooming and pruning
Most shinglings don’t require pruning unless they remove dead, sick, diseased, or yellow ones. This will help to boost the growth by allowing Light to get to more leaves.
You can also trim the plant to maintain its shape or size. But, you shouldn’t cut more than 30 percent from the plants at any moment. If you cut too much, you’ll reduce its strength.
When pruning, use an unsterilized pruning knife, scissors, or shears to avoid spreading diseases.
Additionally, in addition to pruning, it’s best to clean the leaves regularly to enhance their appearance and deter pests.
Rhaphidophora Hayi Potting and Repotting
They don’t have huge root balls and do not require regular repotterization. So, you should repot your Rhaphidophora Hayi at intervals of 2 to 3 years or after they’re root bound.
Report in the spring, and look for a pot 2 to 3 inches bigger than the previous one and has sufficient depth.
Rhaphidophora hayi propagation
Rhaphidophora Hayi proliferates by cutting the stem in either the form of a potting mix/soil or in water. However, the seed’s propagation is feasible, but it is not as expected.
We recommend using the potting mix for soil propagation because it has a better success rate. As with other plants, grow the shingle plant in the spring.
Propagation of soil
To promote soil growth for soil propagation, you will require these things:
- Sterilized pruning knives, shears, or knife
- Plastic bag (optional). It will, however, assist in keeping humidity and moist soil and aid in faster growth and rooting.
- Rooting hormone (optional)
- Aerated and well-drained potting mix Sphagnum, coco coir soils, a mix of Aroid, etc.
- Small pot
Stems from being observed
- Put the potting mix in your growing pot and thoroughly moisten it.
- With your pruning knife, choose and cut approximately 4 inches of the healthy stem with at least two nodes.
- Get rid of the lower leaves to leave the upper few or even two.
- Dip the cut part into the rooting hormone. We use HydroDynamics Clonex Rooting Gel. But, Garden Safe Brand TakeRoot The hormone that helps root is also effective. This is not required but can help speed up rooting.
- Create a hole in your soil, then plant the stem cutting. Be sure that at least two nodes cover the potting mix.
- Mist lightly the cutting, then protect it with a transparent plastic bag, leaving air to breathe. Make sure that the paper bag doesn’t contact your cutting foliage.
- Put your cut in a location with a direct, bright light at a temperature between 70-75 F (21 to 24 degrees Celsius).
- Keep the soil damp and mist it as required. Also, regularly take the plastic bag off for a short period to let the plant breathe.
The roots will begin to grow after two weeks, and you could observe new growth approximately. The exact timing will depend on the conditions that you set.
If you own greenhouse cabinets, buying an empty plastic bag is not necessary. Gardman offers a compact and beautiful indoor greenhouse that doesn’t occupy all of your space. Also, you can try IKEA.
You can transplant the cut to a planter pot if it is strong enough. Then, you will begin taking care like you normally.
Proliferation in water
Instead of planting Rhaphidophora Hayiin water, put it in a jar. Make sure to change the water every couple of days.
How do you make Rhaphidophora hayi?
If you’re the first person to use a shingle plant, the process of mounting might seem daunting. It’s quite simple.
If you have previously mounted it, but it’s grown too large for the mount or has another reason, you’d like to alter the pole that you are mounting first, remove it. After unmounting, gently take the plant off the mounting, making sure you don’t cut off any roots attached to the aerial.
Then, gently shimmy, shake or shimmy the pole in the pot, and then take it out. Be sure not to damage the roots of your plant.
Then, examine the roots of your tree for organic matter. If it is present, break them loose and eliminate organic matter adhering to them by hosing the roots with water. The plant will not stick to the new mounting easily If it is left with organic matter.
Then, you can install the new pole and gently place the plant, so the stem is within it. Use floral tape or string to attach the stem to the mount. It can be removed after the mount is attached.
Make sure to tie only the stem, not the leaves to prevent rot when you mist your plants. Make sure you don’t pull the tape or string excessively. It could cause the stem to choke.
If you have employed a sphagnum-moss board or pole, spray it with mist before mounting and then regularly. The sphagnum’s moisture will promote faster roots and better attachment.
Toxic for humans and pets
Rhaphidophora Hayi is poisonous or toxic for dogs, humans, cats, and other pets due to its insoluble calcium oxalates, also known as raphides.
If your pet chews on this plant, these sharp, insoluble needle-like raphides can be found in the mucous membranes of the oral gastrointestinal. Some signs to look out for are.
- Extremely painful burns and irritation of the mouth.
- Lips swelling and redness mouth, tongue, and mouth
- Pawing
- Drooling
- Unwillingness to eat
Additionally, this plant could cause contact dermatitis in the skin’s sensitive areas. Therefore, ensure that your pets or children don’t have access to the beautiful shingling plant.
Pests
If it is grown indoors, with adequate treatment, this plant will not likely be infected with insects. But, your shingle plant may have mealybugs, aphids, mites, or even scale.
Use insecticidal soaps to isolate the plant, trim heavily infested leaves, or spray the plant to remove the insects. The remedy or treatment you choose will depend on what pests your plant is afflicted with.
Conditions and diseases
When it is grown indoors, your shingle plants could suffer from root decay (fungal or bacteria) resulting from excessive watering or a contaminated potting mix. Make sure to purchase premium brands.
Other common diseases for Rhaphidophoraspecies include a mosaic virus, botrytis, southern blight, or the red leaf spot. Ensure you wash your hands before washing or handling your houseplant, and use sterilized pruning tools.
In addition to the disease that is common in these plants are the following:
Rhaphidophora Hayi leaves are becoming yellow
The yellow-colored leaves on Rhaphidophora Hayi signify that you are not adequately watering your plant. Also, it could be caused by the following reasons:
- Underwatering
- Low Light
- Direct sunlight (look bleached, with burned edges, and the point)
- Low humidity or dry air
- Pests and diseases
- Insufficient or excessive fertilizer
Why Is My Rhaphidophora Hayi Curling leaves
Curling leaves usually indicate that you’ve submerged your plant’s shingle. It could also be caused by very low humidity, pests, cold drafts, or even diseases.
Rhaphidophora hayi variegated
Apart from the typical plant, you could also opt for the extremely expensive and rare Variegated Rhaphidophora, which has beautiful dark green leaves and mint-colored variation. But, it will cost up to around $200 or so. Wildpretii.com is the best place to find it.
Rhaphidophora hayi Vs. Korthalsii
Rhaphidophora hayi and Rhaphidophora Korthalsii are two distinct species of shingling aroids belonging to the identical Genus. They share a close resemblance.
However, R. Hayi has dark green oval leaves. Rhaphidophora korthalsii’s leaves range from green to blueish-bluish and oval or heart-shaped.
Additionally, although R. Hayi has a juvenile appearance to its leaves, R. Korthalsii’s adult leaves appear distinct. The leaves get bigger, and the leaves are fenestrated.
Rhaphidophora Korthalsii Adult leaves and juvenile leaves
Frequently asked questions
Is Rhaphidophora hayi rare?
Yes. Rhaphidophora hayi is one of the scarce houseplants, and many people do not yet have it. But, since it became one of Costa Farm’s Trending Tropicals Collection, the plant is now becoming increasingly available, and many customers are purchasing it.
Where can I purchase Rhaphidophora hayi that is on sale?
The best place to purchase Rhaphidophora Hayi can be found on Etsy.com and Costa Farms and at any of the Costa Farms outlets, including Amazon, Costco, Ikea, Sam’s Club, Sprouts, Lowe’s, and Walmart. You can also try Home Depot, Lowes, and so on.
Then, look up the local specialty nurseries and Facebook groups. It is also available at Etsy.com, tropical-botanical.com, pistilsnursery.com, and plant circle. Co (Berlin German).
Also, check Root-houseplants.com and picclick.co.uk within the UK, foliahaus.ca in Canada or Sagegarden.ca in Canada, and Greenmyspace.com.au in Australia, as others.
How much is Rhaphidophora Hayi’s price?
Rhaphidophora Hayi’s cost ranges from between $10 and $50. Some sellers offer a higher price, while others offer less than $10. But, the mint variant can be very costly, ranging upwards of $500.
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