An endemic species in Brazil found in forests placed at the borders of rivers and lakes of the Federal District and the state of Goiás. Commonly present in banks and streams, it can also be found growing in limestone outcrops. This plant is easily reproduced through stem cuttings, that can be simply placed in loose, damp soil. The name Philodendron mayoi pays homage to Simon Mayo, an important botanist and researcher of the arum family.