Fivefingers

Fivefingers

Syngonium angustatum

Family: Araceae

Easy-Medium

Fivefingers (Syngonium angustatum) is a climbing plant from the Araceae family. Easy care.

IndoorToxic to pets Air Purifying
Light
Medium light
Water
Every 6 days
Size
12" tall
Difficulty
2/5

Complete Care Guide

Light Requirements

Thrives near east-facing windows or a few feet back from south/west windows. Needs consistent but not intense light.

Watering

Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Consistent moisture is preferred but brief dry periods are tolerated.

Typical schedule: every 6 days (adjust for season and environment).

Humidity

Average household humidity (40-50%) is usually fine. Misting occasionally or grouping with other plants can help during dry winter months.

Temperature

Keep between 5580°F (1327°C). Avoid cold drafts, heating vents, and sudden temperature changes.

Size & Growth

Mature size: approximately 12 inches tall × 4 inches wide. Growth rate is slow. Habit: climbing.

Difficulty Level: 2/5

Easy to moderate care. Forgiving of minor mistakes but benefits from consistent attention. Good for beginners ready for a small step up.

Quick Tips

  • Water every 7 days
  • Prefers medium light
  • Humidity: medium

Common Problems & Solutions

Brown leaf tips

Cause: Low humidity, inconsistent watering, or mineral buildup from tap water

Fix: Increase humidity with a pebble tray or humidifier. Use filtered water. Water on a consistent schedule.

Scorched or bleached leaves

Cause: Too much direct sunlight burning the foliage

Fix: Move away from direct sun. This plant prefers filtered or indirect light.

Drooping or wilting

Cause: Usually underwatering or sudden temperature change

Fix: Water thoroughly and ensure consistent moisture. Avoid cold drafts and heating vents.

Toxic to Pets

Fivefingers is toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion may cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep this plant out of reach or consider a pet-safe alternative.

Browse pet-safe alternatives →

Where to Buy

We may earn a commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Fivefingers safe for cats and dogs?

No — Fivefingers is toxic to both cats and dogs. If ingested, it may cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of pets or choose a pet-safe alternative.

How often should I water Fivefingers?

Water approximately every 6 days, but always check the soil first. Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Consistent moisture is preferred but brief dry periods are tolerated. Adjust frequency based on season — less in winter, more in summer.

How much light does Fivefingers need?

Fivefingers prefers medium light conditions. Thrives near east-facing windows or a few feet back from south/west windows. Needs consistent but not intense light.

How big does Fivefingers get?

Indoors, Fivefingers typically reaches about 12 inches (30 cm) tall with a spread of around 4 inches. Growth rate is slow. Size depends on pot size, light, and care.

Is Fivefingers good for beginners?

Yes! With a difficulty rating of 2/5, Fivefingers is very forgiving and suitable for beginners. It tolerates imperfect conditions and bounces back from mistakes.