Burle Marx philodendron is a low-growing shrub or vine that has shiny bright green heart-shaped leaves and reddish stems. It grows in clumps about two feet tall and two to three feet wide and prefers partial sun and moderate soil moisture.

The philodendron is a plant native to the tropical jungles of Brazil where it forms large clumps that can eventually climb nearby trees and structures. This philodendron is named for the eminent Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx who championed the use of native plants in modern landscape design. Philodendrons are not hardy in Chicago but are easily overwintered as they make excellent houseplants.