Philodendron

Overview

Philodendrons are among the most diverse and popular houseplants, beloved for their stunning foliage, adaptability, and relatively easy care requirements. Native to tropical regions of the Americas, primarily Central and South America, these versatile plants belong to the Araceae family and comprise over 450 species with countless cultivars and hybrids.

The name "Philodendron" comes from the Greek words "philo" (love) and "dendron" (tree), referring to their tree-loving nature as many species are climbers that attach to trees in their natural habitat. Philodendrons can be broadly categorized into two growth habits: climbing (vining) types that use aerial roots to attach to surfaces and grow upward, and non-climbing (self-heading) types that grow from a central point in a more bushy form.

Philodendrons are prized for their diverse leaf shapes, sizes, and colors, ranging from the classic heart-shaped leaves of the Heartleaf Philodendron to the dramatic split leaves of the Philodendron bipinnatifidum. Their foliage can be solid green, variegated, or even display striking colors like pink, red, or burgundy, depending on the variety.

Beyond their ornamental value, Philodendrons are also effective air purifiers, helping to remove toxins like formaldehyde from indoor air. Their combination of visual appeal, adaptability to various indoor conditions, and air-purifying qualities has made them enduring favorites among both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts.

Care Guide

Light Requirements

Philodendrons are adaptable to various light conditions, making them suitable for different areas of your home:

• Bright Indirect Light: Ideal for optimal growth and variegation
• Medium Light: Will grow well with slightly slower growth
• Low Light: Can survive but growth will be slower and variegation may fade
• Direct Sunlight: Avoid as it can scorch the leaves

For most Philodendron varieties, bright indirect light provides the best growing conditions. Place your plant near an east or north-facing window, or a few feet away from a south or west-facing window with filtered light. Variegated varieties require more light than solid green types to maintain their coloration.

While many Philodendrons can tolerate lower light conditions, they may become leggy and produce smaller leaves if light is insufficient. Rotate your plant regularly to ensure even growth on all sides.

Watering

Philodendrons prefer consistent moisture but are susceptible to root rot if overwatered:

Watering Schedule:

• Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings
• Typically water every 1-2 weeks, depending on light, temperature, and humidity
• Reduce watering in winter when growth slows
• Increase frequency during active growth in spring and summer

Watering Technique:

• Water thoroughly until it flows from the drainage holes
• Empty the saucer to prevent the plant sitting in water
• Use room temperature water
• Consider using filtered water if your tap water is heavily chlorinated or fluoridated

Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves and leaf drop, while underwatering typically causes drooping, curling leaves and brown leaf edges. Philodendrons generally prefer to be slightly underwatered rather than overwatered.

Soil

Philodendrons thrive in well-draining soil that retains some moisture:

Ideal Soil Mix:

• Commercial aroid mix
• DIY mix: 1 part potting soil, 1 part perlite, 1 part orchid bark, and a handful of charcoal
• Alternative DIY mix: 2 parts potting soil, 1 part perlite, 1 part coconut coir

The soil should be light and airy to mimic the plant's natural epiphytic growing conditions in the wild. This allows the aerial roots to breathe while still providing adequate moisture and nutrients. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0) is preferred.

Temperature & Humidity

As tropical plants, Philodendrons prefer warm temperatures and high humidity:

Temperature:

• Ideal range: 65-85°F (18-29°C)
• Minimum temperature: 55°F (13°C)
• Avoid cold drafts, sudden temperature fluctuations, and heating/cooling vents
• Keep away from cold windows in winter

Humidity:

• Prefers humidity levels of 40-60%
• Will tolerate average household humidity but thrives with higher humidity
• Increase humidity by:
  • Grouping with other plants
  • Using a humidifier
  • Placing on a pebble tray with water
  • Misting occasionally (though this provides only temporary humidity)

While Philodendrons can adapt to average home humidity levels, they will show their appreciation for higher humidity with larger, more vibrant leaves. They are particularly sensitive to cold drafts, so keep them away from doors, windows, and air conditioning vents.

Fertilizing

Philodendrons benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season:

Fertilizing Schedule:

• Apply a balanced houseplant fertilizer (NPK 20-20-20) diluted to half strength
• Feed once a month during spring and summer (growing season)
• Reduce to once every 2-3 months in fall
• No fertilizer needed during winter when growth slows

Over-fertilizing can cause salt buildup and burn the roots, resulting in brown leaf edges. If you notice this, flush the soil thoroughly with water to remove excess salts. Alternatively, you can use a slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for indoor foliage plants at the beginning of the growing season.

Propagation

Philodendrons are among the easiest houseplants to propagate, particularly the vining varieties:

Stem Cutting Propagation:

1. Select a healthy stem with at least 1-2 leaves and 1-2 nodes (the bumpy part where leaves emerge)
2. Using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, cut just below a node
3. Ensure your cutting has at least one node, as this is where new roots will form

Water Propagation:

1. Place the cutting in a container of water, ensuring the node is submerged but leaves are above water
2. Position in bright, indirect light
3. Change the water every 5-7 days to prevent bacteria growth
4. Roots should appear within 1-3 weeks
5. Once roots are 1-2 inches long (usually after 3-4 weeks), plant in soil

Soil Propagation:

1. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional but helpful)
2. Plant the cutting in moist, well-draining soil, ensuring the node is buried
3. Cover with a clear plastic bag or dome to maintain humidity
4. Place in bright, indirect light
5. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy
6. New growth indicates successful rooting (usually within 3-6 weeks)

Division (for non-vining types):

1. Remove the plant from its pot
2. Gently separate the root ball into sections, ensuring each has adequate roots and stems
3. Plant each division in its own pot with fresh soil
4. Water thoroughly and place in indirect light

Spring and summer are the best times to propagate Philodendrons when the plant is actively growing.

Common Problems

Despite being relatively low-maintenance, Philodendrons can face several issues:

Yellowing Leaves:

• Cause: Overwatering, underwatering, or natural aging of older leaves
• Solution: Adjust watering schedule based on soil moisture. If only older leaves are yellowing while new growth looks healthy, this is normal aging.

Brown Leaf Edges or Tips:

• Cause: Low humidity, underwatering, or fertilizer buildup
• Solution: Increase humidity, adjust watering schedule, and flush the soil occasionally to remove fertilizer buildup.

Leggy Growth:

• Cause: Insufficient light causing the plant to stretch
• Solution: Move to a brighter location and prune to encourage bushier growth.

Small Leaves:

• Cause: Insufficient light, nutrients, or root space
• Solution: Provide more light, fertilize appropriately, and consider repotting if the plant is root-bound.

Pests:

• Common pests: Spider mites, mealybugs, scale, aphids
• Signs: Webbing, sticky residue, visible insects, or stippled leaves
• Treatment: Wipe leaves with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or rubbing alcohol. Repeat treatments weekly until pests are gone.

Root Rot:

• Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage
• Signs: Yellowing leaves, mushy stems, foul smell
• Solution: Remove from pot, trim away rotted roots, repot in fresh soil with better drainage, and adjust watering habits.

Leaf Spots:

• Cause: Fungal or bacterial infections, often from water sitting on leaves
• Signs: Brown or black spots with yellow halos
• Solution: Remove affected leaves, avoid getting water on foliage, and improve air circulation.

Popular Varieties

The Philodendron genus includes hundreds of species and countless cultivars. Here are some of the most popular varieties for indoor growing:

Climbing/Vining Varieties:

Philodendron hederaceum (Heartleaf Philodendron)

• Classic vining philodendron with heart-shaped, glossy green leaves
• Extremely adaptable and easy to grow
• Perfect for hanging baskets or climbing up a moss pole
• One of the most common houseplants worldwide

Philodendron Brasil

• Variegated form of heartleaf philodendron
• Green leaves with yellow/chartreuse streaks down the center
• Vibrant, eye-catching foliage
• Same easy care as the standard heartleaf

Philodendron 'Micans'

• Velvety, heart-shaped leaves with a bronze to purple iridescence
• Also known as "Velvet Leaf Philodendron"
• Smaller leaves than standard heartleaf philodendron
• Stunning texture that catches the light beautifully

Philodendron scandens 'Lemon Lime'

• Bright chartreuse to yellow-green foliage
• Vining habit similar to heartleaf philodendron
• Adds a pop of color to plant collections
• Particularly striking when paired with darker foliage plants

Non-Climbing/Self-Heading Varieties:

Philodendron 'Birkin'

• Compact, upright growth habit
• Dark green leaves with fine white pinstripe variegation
• New leaves may show pink or red tones
• Relatively new hybrid that has become extremely popular

Philodendron 'Pink Princess'

• Dark green, almost black leaves with vibrant pink variegation
• Each leaf has a unique pattern
• Highly sought after and often expensive
• Requires more light than green varieties to maintain pink coloration

Philodendron 'Prince of Orange'

• New leaves emerge bright orange and mature to green
• Upright, compact growth habit
• Dramatic color changes as leaves develop
• Non-variegated but still visually striking

Philodendron 'Congo Rojo'

• Large, glossy leaves with burgundy to dark green coloration
• Upright growth habit with sturdy stems
• Can grow quite large over time
• Bold, dramatic statement plant

Philodendron bipinnatifidum (Split-Leaf Philodendron)

• Large, deeply lobed leaves that resemble Monstera deliciosa
• Can grow quite large, even indoors
• Often confused with Monstera but has different leaf structure
• Makes a dramatic statement in large spaces

With their diverse forms, easy care requirements, and beautiful foliage, Philodendrons offer something for every plant enthusiast. Whether you prefer the classic trailing varieties or the bold statement of self-heading types, these versatile plants will bring a touch of the tropics to your home while purifying your air and thriving with minimal fuss.