[dropcap]What[/dropcap] have I got against this Philodendron and why don’t I show it much love? I don’t know – nothing really. Basically, it just doesn’t do much for me nor grab my attention. Is it wrong for me to not like or want every plant that I see? Furthermore and more importantly, I have very limited space. So, along with my experience/knowledge of the problems of having/collecting too many things, I’ve become more hesitant (and dare I say wiser) in obtaining new things, including plants. But let’s face it. If I really like a plant, I would find a space/place for it. So why not this Philodendron?
This oversized Philodendron lives outside our building at the bottom of the stairs. I have no idea who owns it or how it got there in the first place but it looks abandoned. And many years old. It lives in a biggish black plastic pot and is evidently flourishing/thriving, freely feeding on rain water, opulent sunshine and coastal fresh air. And loving it. Its vines and pretty heart shaped leaves have formed a crawling/sprawling mass around it, looking to expand its growth beyond its pot.
I’ve walked passed and brushed a hello with it many times before. I’ve also admired its vibrant green heart-shaped leaves and questioned its unusual ‘fish out of water’ existence. But I didn’t jump for joy. And that was the extent of our interaction really. It just looked a little common/ordinary, uninteresting/boring and not so special/unique. Perhaps, its unruly appearance and immediate surrounds didn’t help either. If it was a variegated Monstera deliciosa or Amorphophallus or Bat flower in bloom for example, I might have been more excited. Truth be told, I did last year take a small cutting from it with the hope of growing it on the balcony and painting it, but I ended up throwing it away and the ‘leaf in a glass of water’ composition looked too minimalist, maybe.
Anyhow, my dear friend Karma has a strange/funny way of teaching me. It seems that with things that I don’t like much (plants included), I soon end up liking them more. So after some thought/contemplation (and feeling a little guilty and sorry for the plant), I’ve decided to appreciate it more and take another cutting of it and re-adopt it back into our plant family collective/circle. Who knows, it could be the best thing I’ve done? And perhaps, it will be a good reminder for me to remember that there’s nothing wrong with being ordinary/common, simple/plain, boring and/or not so special. And that everything and everybody is special and beautiful.
Furthermore, I’ve searched Philodendron flowers online and they look amazing/exceptional. I have no idea what cultivar/variety this specimen is but hopefully one day (with much love and patience), it will bloom some extraordinary flowers which I can use/incorporate in my artworks or simply enjoy as they are. So in the end, everyone wins. I do hope it flowers.
Also, today’s my birthday. Thank you. I’m probably out there somewhere happily celebrating it with my darling partner and princess Swan. I wrote this post earlier in the week and scheduled it to be published today. Technology’s pretty amazing, huh? Have a happy and safe week yous. smile
David
Happy birthday, Ngeun!
I am somewhat the same way with things. I used to despise yucca plants and now I can’t have enough! I’ve never seen a philodendron blossom – off to google what they look like!
Enjoy your day! A toast to you, your happiness, and health!
Ngeun
Thanks very much David! The three of us had a fab couple of days. It’s funny how our tastes changes but it’s natural and the world offers so much. It’s good to go with the flow but we have to be selective too. I agree with the yucca plants – the flowers are wonderful! Best wishes to you. 😊
Cynthia and Pet
Happy birthday dear Ngeun and thank you for this beautiful post! It is a wonderful reminder of the need to appreciate all things. Sometimes the less glamorous creatures are indeed the most beautiful of them all… believe me, I know!
We wish you a wonderful year Ngeun and thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all of the joy, wisdom and love that you bring to us each week.
Love always. Cynthia and Petal xxx
Ngeun
Dearest Cynthia & Petal, thanks so much for your lovely and encouraging words as always. Yes, many times the most beautiful and wonderful things are right there in our own backyard. And it’s true – all things bright and beautiful. Though, some things are more special than others, as you two well know. Much love butternuts. ❤
lost in utensils
I just wished you a happy belated birthday in your recent post Ngeun but you can never overdo wishing someone the best. I don’t mind these plants but I’m not the biggest fan either.
Ngeun
Thanks again Jem, you’re awesome! The green leafy nature of these plants can lack excitement but the flowers are something to look forward to. Also, perhaps the glossy heart-shaped leaves will be a good component to a floral arrangement. Will give it a try. :)