Rhaphidophora 'Cryptantha' (Shingle Plant)

🔥🪴 Rhaphidophora ‘Cryptantha’ / Rhaphidophora cryptantha (rah-FID-oh-for-uh krip-TAN-tha) 🪴🔥

Also known as: Shingle Plant, Shingle Vine

A true collector’s treasure, Rhaphidophora ‘Cryptantha’ is a rare shingling aroid with small, round, deep green leaves etched in silver veining. Unlike typical climbers, this species grows tightly pressed against its support, “shingling” up wood or stone in a perfectly overlapping pattern that looks like living tiles. Native to Papua New Guinea, it’s a striking way to bring a piece of the rainforest canopy into your home.

💡 Care Tips:

☀️ Light – Thrives in bright, indirect light. Too little light reduces its silver veining, while too much direct sun can scorch the leaves.
💧 Water – Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly before watering again. Requires excellent drainage to prevent root rot.
🌡️ Humidity – Prefers high humidity (60%+). Dry air can cause leaves to curl or stunt. Best in temps of 65–85°F (18–29°C).
🌱 Growth – Shingling climber. Needs a rough vertical surface (like wood, cork bark, or a moss board) to flatten and display its shingle effect. Indoors, vines can stretch several feet long with patience.

📊 Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced (thrives with specific conditions; not a beginner’s plant).

🐾 Pet Safety: Toxic if ingested. Like other aroids, it contains calcium oxalate crystals which can irritate the mouth, throat, and stomach. All pets are unique and reactions may vary in symptoms and severity.

🌟 Collector’s Tip:
Give this plant a rough, vertical board or mossy slab to climb — watching the leaves flatten and overlap into a perfect shingle pattern is half the fun. Without a proper surface, it tends to trail and lose its unique look. Pair it with a humidifier and a grow light, and you’ll have one of the most mesmerizing living wall effects in your collection.

Photos do not depict the exact plant you will receive; colors and size will vary. You will receive the healthiest and best-looking plant from your size selection.