Philodendron Lime Fiddle vs. Golden Dragon (Differences, Similarities & Growing Guide 2023)

When looking for the best plant to suit your needs, you may need to compare the philodendron lime fiddle vs. golden dragon. 

There’s no doubt that both plants will improve the outlook of your environment since they’re beautiful. But which of these plants should you go for if you’re to make a choice?

In this article, we will discuss each of the plants in detail so that you can make the best choice.

Philodendron Lime Fiddle vs. Golden Dragon

One major difference between the philodendron lime fiddle and the golden dragon is their leaves. If you look at the philodendron lime fiddle leaves closely, you’ll notice that they are glossy. On the other hand, the golden dragon leaves lack luster.

A Quick Philodendron Lime Fiddle vs. Golden Dragon Comparison

Plant	Philodendron Lime Fiddle	Golden Dragon
Leaf Color	Light to dark green	Dark green with golden-yellow speckles
Stem Color	Dark green	Deep green
Variegation	Yellow, white, and cream	White, yellow, and cream with golden speckles
Flower	White	White

Philodendron Lime Fiddle vs. Golden Dragon Differences

While the philodendron lime fiddle and golden dragon share some similarities, they’re different in many ways. We’ll be discussing the differences in their names, taxonomy, shape and appearance, color, and more.

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1. Origin and Name

The Philodendron lime fiddle is a hybrid plant that originated in Thailand. There’s a common belief that the plant was developed using a Philodendron bipennifolium Schott.

Philodendron golden dragon plants are native to South America. It is one of the most beautiful members of the philodendron family.

2. Taxonomy

Both the Philodendron lime fiddle and the golden dragon belong to the genus of plants in the family Araceae. 

However, the philodendron lime fiddle is scientifically known as the philodendron minarum. As of now, the golden dragon has no scientific name.

3. Shape & Appearance

The philodendron lime fiddle has large leaves with different shades. In addition, the leaves have a glossy appearance.

On the contrary, the golden dragon has heart-shaped leaves. Its leaves also have a less glossy surface, as opposed to the philodendron lime fiddle. 

Funnily enough, the golden dragon leaves look similar to a dragon’s head. That’s how the plant got its name.

4. Differences in Color

The leaves of the philodendron lime fiddle are variegated with green, white, and yellow shades. 

The golden dragon leaves may have mottling shades of white or yellow.

5. Leaf Size and Texture

When mature, the philodendron lime fiddle leaves can grow up to 1 ft. wide and 1-2 ft. long. They also have large glossy leaves with a leathery texture.

Golden dragon plant leaves can be 1–2 ft. long and 8 inches wide. As the plant matures, the leaves can become wider.

6. Height and Growth Rate

Under normal conditions, the philodendron lime fiddle can grow up to 6 feet tall and can spread up to 3 feet.

At first, the golden dragon can grow up to 8 to 12 inches long since they have a small size. But under more favorable conditions, the plants can grow up to 20–25 inches.

7. Temperature and Climate

Philodendron lime fiddle plants can tolerate temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 55 degrees at night. And they also prefer mild to warm tropical climate conditions.

On the contrary, the philodendron golden dragon prefers temperatures between 65 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit. As with other tropical plants, they like warm climates.

Philodendron Lime Fiddle vs. Golden Dragon Similarities

1. Sunlight

Both plant species grow well in places where they can receive bright, indirect sunlight. Too much exposure to light can cause discoloration of leaves. Preferably, keep your philodendron lime fiddle and golden dragon in an east-facing window.

2. Watering

While both plants need to be moist, only water them when the top inches of the soil are dry. Overwatering can cause root rot, yellowing of leaves, and other problems in these plants. Try not to underwater both plants too as it can cause their leaves to become dry. 

3. Potting & Soil

Use pots with drainage holes for these plants, as they don’t like to be wet for long periods. When the plants outgrow their pots, especially in spring, repot them as soon as possible.

Also, use well-draining soil for planting them. To improve drainage and aeration, you can add perlite to the soil mix.

4. Fertilizer

Use high-quality fertilizer for the philodendron lime fiddle and golden dragon during their growing period. Avoid applying too much fertilizer to the plants as it can cause a build-up of salt in the soil. During winter, do not fertilize either plant at all as they will be dormant.

Common Problems for Both Plants

The Philodendron Lime Fiddle and Golden Dragon are not immune to problems that are common to other philodendron plants. Here are some of them:

• Pest infestation
• Root rot
• Leaf discoloration
• Curling leaves
• Sunburn
• Stunted growth
• Leaf infection

Conclusion

Now that you have the answers to the philodendron lime fiddle vs. golden dragon comparison, you can make the best choice. 

While both plants differ in some ways, they make great additions to an environment. So, the next time you visit the garden and plant shop, consider purchasing the two distinct plants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Philodendron Lime Fiddle the Same as Golden Dragon?

While the philodendron lime fiddle and golden dragon plant look similar, they’re different. One main difference between the two beautiful plants is their leaves. 

Take a close look at the philodendron lime fiddle leaves, you’ll notice they have a glossy appearance.

On the other hand, the golden dragon leaves have a matte finish.

Is the Philodendron Golden Dragon a Hybrid?

Yes, the Philodendron golden dragon is a hybrid from Thailand. It is probably developed by using Philodendron bipennifolium. Sometimes, specks of gold variegation appear on its green leaves.

Is the Philodendron Golden Dragon a Climber?

Interestingly enough, the philodendron golden dragon climbs fast if it is growing under the right conditions. It is popular for its large leaves that look similar to a dragon’s head. Most of the time, these plants need a totem pole or moss to climb up.