The Care Tips for Philodendron Varieties

Philodendrons include hundreds of species, which have made a notable presence in the field of houseplants. Characterized by broad, glossy, green leaves, these plants bring unmistakable tropical elegance to your living space.  Not only do they provide aesthetic beauty, but philodendrons are also celebrated for their air filtering abilities, making them an invaluable addition to your home in improving air quality.

Characteristics of philodendron plants

Characteristic	Description
Common Name	Philodendron
Botanical Name	Philodendron spp.
Family	Araceae
Plant Type	Perennial
Mature Size	1–20 ft. tall, 1–6 ft. wide
Sun Exposure	Partial
Soil Type	Loamy, well-drained
Soil pH	Acidic
Hardiness Zones	9–11 (USA)
Native Area	Central America, South America
Toxicity	Toxic to pets, toxic to people

The Philodendron genus, a prominent member of Araceae family, encompasses a myriad of perennial plant species native to the tropical regions of the Americas. They are often recognized by their distinctive, large, shiny leaves and their unique growth habits, which can range from trailing or vining to upright and bushy.  The name “Philodendron” itself originates from the Greek words “philo” meaning “love” and “dendron” meaning “tree,” alluding to certain species’ proclivity to climb trees.

Philodendron varieties exhibit a remarkable morphological diversity. Most species are evergreen and can be broadly classified into two categories based on growth habits: vining and non-vining (or self-heading). The vining species, like Philodendron hederaceum (previously known as Philodendron scandens), tend to display longer stems and smaller leaves, while the non-vining types possess shorter stems and often, much larger and occasionally lobed or pinnately split leaves.

The leaf arrangement of Philodendron is typically alternate, and the leaves themselves can vary significantly in terms of shape, size and color. Some possess variegated patterns, while others can be entirely green or imbued with hues of red or purple. A significant morphological feature of many Philodendron species is the presence of an aerial root system, which in vining types aids in attachment to supporting structures.

One of the hallmarks of the Araceae family, and hence the Philodendron genus, is the inflorescence structure known as the spathe and spadix. The spadix is a fleshy axis often packed with tiny flowers, while the spathe, which can be mistaken for a flower, is a modified leaf that encases the spadix.

Originally endemic to the tropical climates of Central and South America, these plants have now found their way into many households and gardens worldwide due to their adaptability and aesthetic appeal. In their natural habitats, philodendrons are often found in rainforests, where they can live as epiphytes (growing on other plants but not parasitizing them), hemiepiphytes (starting as seedlings in the ground and climbing upwards), or terrestrial plants.

Philodendrons have grown in popularity as ornamental plants, primarily due to their striking appearance and relatively minimal care requirements.  They are typically cultivated for their decorative foliage rather than their inflorescences. In domestic settings,  philodendrons prefer indirect light, well-draining soil, and regular watering, though they can tolerate periods of drought. Furthermore, they have found a place in phytoremediation research, wherein certain species have demonstrated an ability to absorb and concentrate heavy metals, thereby purifying the surrounding environment.

The different types of philodendron varieties

The Philodendron genus encapsulates a multitude of diverse varieties, each flaunting its distinct morphology and aesthetic appeal. Delving into the intricacies of this genus, one discerns that the different varieties of philodendrons are primarily demarcated based on their growth habits and leaf morphologies.

1. Vining Philodendrons:  These varieties display elongated, trailing stems, making them ideal for hanging baskets or as climbing plants.

• Philodendron hederaceum ‘Brasil’: This variety is discernible by its variegated leaves, which brandish vibrant stripes of yellow and lime green. Its resilience makes it a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts.
• Philodendron micans: Exhibiting velvety, heart-shaped leaves that shimmer with hues of purple, bronze, and deep green, this variety is revered for its textured foliage.

2. Large-leaf Philodendrons: These varieties are celebrated for their expansive and often lobed or split leaves.

• Philodendron bipinnatifidum (also known as Philodendron selloum): Renowned for its deeply lobed, large leaves, it is a self-heading variety that can assume a tree-like appearance with age.
• Philodendron gloriosum: Flaunting broad, heart-shaped velutinous leaves with striking white veins, this terrestrial variety is a testament to the genus’s morphological diversity.

3. Rosette-forming Philodendrons: These varieties grow upright without the need for support and tend to have a bushy appearance.

• Philodendron ‘Moonlight’: This self-heading hybrid variety manifests luminescent, pale-green leaves, which become darker as they mature.
• Philodendron ‘Congo’: Possessing large, shiny, and leathery leaves, this variety can be found in an array of colors, including green, red and purple.

4. Rare and Exotic Varieties:  With the surge in houseplant enthusiasm, several rare philodendrons have gained prominence among collectors.

• Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’: Pink princess philodendron is coveted for its dark green leaves interspersed with pink variegation. The pink can manifest as blotches or full leaf coloration.
• Philodendron ‘White Knight’: Another hybrid variety, it exhibits dark green leaves marbled with white variegation, making it a prized possession for many enthusiasts.

How to care philodendron

Philodendrons have solidified their position as quintessential houseplants, owing predominantly to their inherently low-maintenance nature. However,  for optimal growth and vitality, it is imperative to adhere to specific care guidelines that aim to emulate their native tropical habitat. By ensuring these conditions, you not only bolster the plant’s health but also accentuate its ornamental value.

Light

When catering to the lighting requirements of philodendrons, you must approach with an understanding rooted in their native habitats.  In their indigenous tropical locales, philodendrons flourish under the sheltered ambience of a forest canopy, which filters the sun’s rays and offers them a resplendent milieu of dappled light. Consequently, your endeavor should be to replicate this semi-luminous environment to ensure the plant’s optimal growth and vitality.

1. Ideal Lighting Condition: Philodendrons inherently seek partial sunlight. The key is to strike a balance that mirrors the gentle, interspersed light they would encounter beneath a tropical canopy. To achieve this, you should position your philodendron near a window that permits an influx of bright yet indirect sunlight.
2. Consequences of Imbalanced Lighting: It’s imperative to maintain vigilance over the lighting your philodendron receives. Insufficient light can be detrimental, leading to elongated, leggy growth characterized by expansive spaces between leaves.  Conversely, an overexposure to light, especially direct sunlight, can usher in its own set of complications. If you observe multiple leaves concurrently adopting a yellow hue, it’s indicative of excessive light exposure. However, an occasional yellowing of a few leaves can typically be ascribed to the plant’s natural aging process and not an anomaly in light provision.

Reference more: Importance of Natural Light for Houseplants

Water

Watering practices, when caring for philodendrons, necessitate precision and regular observation. Philodendrons’ water needs are influenced by factors such as soil type, atmospheric conditions and the specific variety of the plant. As you take on the responsibility of maintaining the hydration needs of your philodendron, you must to adhere to the following guidelines:

1. Watering Frequency Determination:  Instead of adhering to a rigid watering schedule, you must familiarize yourself with the plant’s individual needs by regularly inspecting the soil. Philodendrons signal their readiness for watering when the top inch of the soil has desiccated. By practicing this tactile method of checking soil dryness, you can gauge the ideal watering frequency.
2. Optimal Soil Moisture: Philodendrons gravitate towards a state of moderate soil moisture. While they are adaptable plants, their health can be compromised if they are consistently subjected to either overly saturated or excessively dry conditions. Therefore, maintaining a balanced moisture level is paramount.
3. Assessment of Plant Needs: Relying solely on the plant’s foliage as a barometer for its watering needs can be misleading. While drooping leaves can indeed be symptomatic of both overwatering and underwatering, it’s more accurate and effective for you to determine the plant’s hydration needs based on soil dryness.
4. Avoiding Soggy Soil: Ensuring that your philodendron doesn’t remain in waterlogged soil is of utmost importance.  Such conditions are not only adverse for the plant’s overall well-being but also pave the way for root rot, a detrimental condition that can jeopardize the plant’s survival.
5. Variety-Specific Needs: You should be cognizant of the fact that different philodendron varieties exhibit varied drought tolerances. For instance, non-climbing philodendron varieties generally demonstrate a higher resilience to drought compared to their vining counterparts.
6. Seasonal Adjustments: During the winter months, particularly for indoor philodendrons, their metabolic activities tend to slow down. As a result, their water requirements decrease. You must calibrate your watering schedule accordingly, reducing the frequency to prevent overhydration.

Soil

Soil composition plays an instrumental role in ensuring the well-being and vigorous growth of philodendrons. Given their tropical origins,  these plants exhibit specific preferences when it comes to soil conditions. As you cater to the needs of your philodendron, meticulous attention must be devoted to the soil’s characteristics and maintenance.

1. Soil Composition: At the forefront, philodendrons have an affinity for potting soil that is both acidic and abundant in organic matter. Such a mix facilitates healthy root growth and ensures that the plant can absorb essential nutrients efficiently. It is imperative for you to ensure that the soil remains loose and well-aerated to encourage these processes.
2. Drainage: Equally pivotal is the soil’s drainage capability. Philodendrons are averse to waterlogged conditions, which can precipitate root rot and other complications. Thus, you must ensure that your selected potting mix offers exceptional drainage, preventing the accumulation of excess moisture around the plant’s roots.
3. Soil Replacement: Over time, even the most nutritive soil can become depleted of its beneficial constituents. Moreover, philodendrons demonstrate sensitivity to accumulated salts, a byproduct of regular watering. This accumulation can manifest as leaf browning and yellowing – signs of distress in the plant. Consequently, it is prudent for you to replace the soil enveloping your containerized philodendron approximately every two years. This not only rejuvenates the nutrient content but also alleviates the concerns of salt buildup.
4. Salts Flushing: Between the intervals of soil replacement, you can adopt a proactive measure to counteract salt accumulation.  By watering your philodendron copiously, to the point where water drains out from the container’s base, you facilitate the flushing out of some accumulated salts. This practice, performed periodically, can forestall the negative repercussions of salt buildup.

Temperature and Humidity

Temperature and humidity play integral roles in the health and vitality of philodendrons. As these plants hail from tropical environments, they possess specific preferences regarding climatic conditions. As you navigate the journey of philodendron care, your attentiveness to these two factors will be paramount.

1. Temperature Guidelines: Philodendrons, across their diverse species, generally demonstrate intolerance to temperatures falling below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Subjecting them to temperatures below this threshold can induce stress and hinder their growth. While they are resilient plants, it is essential to ensure they remain within their preferred temperature range.
2. Indoor Temperature Maintenance:  If your philodendron is housed indoors, it’s crucial to protect it from potential cold drafts. These drafts, which can emanate from sources such as open windows or air-conditioning vents, can inadvertently expose the plant to sub-optimal temperatures. You must remain vigilant in positioning the plant in a location where such drafts are non-existent or minimal.
3. Humidity Requirements: Inherent to their tropical origins, philodendrons exhibit a pronounced preference for high humidity. Their metabolic and physiological processes thrive in humid conditions. Therefore, if you reside in an area characterized by dry climatic conditions, it becomes imperative to artificially enhance the surrounding humidity for your plant.
4. Boosting Humidity: There are multiple methods you can employ to augment the humidity around your philodendron.  A straightforward approach involves misting the plant’s leaves with water from a spray bottle at intervals of a few days. This not only increases the ambient humidity but also offers the added benefit of keeping the foliage free from dust.
5. Alternative Humidity Enhancement: Another efficacious method to elevate humidity involves the strategic use of a pebble tray. Fill a tray with pebbles and add water until it’s just below the top of the pebbles. Place the philodendron container atop this tray. As the water from the tray evaporates, it increases the immediate humidity. However, a cautionary note: Ensure that the container’s base doesn’t come into direct contact with the water. This can create a waterlogged environment conducive to root rot.

Fertilizer

Optimal fertilization is a quintessential aspect of philodendron care, underpinning the plant’s growth, vigor, and overall health. These tropical plants have specific nutrient requirements that must be judiciously catered to.

1. Selection of Fertilizer: A balanced liquid fertilizer is the preferred choice for philodendrons. Such fertilizers ensure that the plant receives an equal proportion of the primary nutrients – nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium – which collectively support leaf growth, root development and flowering, respectively.
2. Fertilization Frequency:  In the growth-intensive periods of spring and summer, you should administer the liquid fertilizer on a monthly basis. This regularity ensures that your philodendron has a consistent supply of essential nutrients during its most active growth phase.
3. Product Label Adherence: It is imperative for you to meticulously adhere to the instructions delineated on the fertilizer product label. These guidelines are specifically crafted to ensure the optimal well-being of plants. Using the correct amount as prescribed prevents the risks associated with both under-fertilization and over-fertilization.
4. Adjustments for Dormant Periods: During the fall and winter months, the metabolic activity of philodendrons tends to decrease, leading to reduced nutrient requirements. Consequently, you should recalibrate your fertilization schedule, extending the interval between feedings to every six to eight weeks.
5. Monitoring Plant Health: Regular observation of your philodendron can offer insights into its nutritional state. A plant that is receiving suboptimal nutrition might exhibit symptoms such as stunted growth or the emergence of smaller-than-usual leaves. Should you observe such signs, it might necessitate a reevaluation of your fertilization practices.

How to propagate philodendron plants

Philodendrons can be effortlessly propagated using several methods. This capacity to reproduce ensures that aficionados can expand their collection or share these magnificent plants with others. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the propagation processes:

Propagating Philodendrons from Stem Cuttings:

1. Preparation: Initiate the process by gathering the necessary tools: sterilized pruning shears or heavy-duty scissors, potting mix, a container, and optionally, a rooting hormone.
2. Taking the Cutting: Isolate a 6-inch section of the stem. Upon extraction, immerse this section in a container filled with water, thereby facilitating the genesis of roots.  While the incorporation of a rooting hormone (as per its specific instructions) can enhance the probability of successful rooting, philodendrons typically root without the need for such supplements.
3. Maintenance: As water levels diminish due to evaporation, replenish the container. Should the cutting remain in stagnant water for over two to three weeks, it’s prudent to replace the water entirely. This averts potential complications such as bacterial or algal proliferation.
4. Transitioning to Soil: Upon the emergence of several roots, which typically occurs within a fortnight, the cutting is ready to be transplanted. Introduce it into a pot containing moistened soil, ensuring a seamless transition from its aquatic environment.

Dividing Philodendrons:

1. Identifying Plantlets: Over time, philodendrons may sprout plantlets. Once these offshoots attain a length of several inches, they become viable candidates for division.
2. Pre-division Care: A day preceding your division endeavor, irrigate the plant generously. Division, while a natural process, can be stressful for the plant; hence, ensuring the plant is well-hydrated is paramount.
3. Equipment: For this procedure, arm yourself with a sharp knife, fresh potting mix, and a new container.
4. Executing the Division:  Extricate the philodendron from its existing pot. Positioning it on a stable surface, gently disentangle the root ball using your fingers. Isolate the plantlet, ensuring its roots remain intact. In instances where the roots are particularly dense, a knife may be employed to facilitate the separation.
5. Replanting: Post-division, promptly transplant the plantlet into a pot filled with moist potting mix. Concurrently, consider rejuvenating the parent plant by introducing it to fresh soil or rehousing it in a marginally larger container.

How to grow philodendron from seed

Growing philodendrons from seeds, although a more protracted approach than utilizing stem cuttings, remains a viable method for those interested in observing the full life cycle of this magnificent plant.

1. Selecting the Growing Medium: Begin by choosing a rich soil, which provides the essential nutrients and environment conducive to germination. Given that philodendrons hail from tropical regions, a medium enriched with organic matter will closely mimic their natural habitat.
2. Sowing the Seeds:  Opt for a 6-inch pot to initiate the seeding process. Space each seed 2 inches apart to prevent overcrowding and ensure they have ample room to expand. Deposit the seeds approximately 1/3 of an inch deep within the soil. Contrary to certain plants, philodendron seeds do not necessitate pre-soaking.
3. Creating a Humid Environment: After sowing, envelop the pot with a plastic cover. This replicates the high humidity conditions inherent to the philodendron’s natural tropical habitat, creating a mini-greenhouse effect. Periodically, it is essential for you to momentarily remove the plastic covering, thereby ensuring an influx of fresh air, which is pivotal for seed respiration.
4. Maintaining Moisture: Regular misting of the soil is a non-negotiable step. Utilizing a spray bottle, ensure that the soil remains consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Remember, philodendron seeds are reliant on moisture for germination.
5. Temperature Regulation: Temperature plays an instrumental role in seed germination. Aim for a soil temperature bracket between 68 and 73 degrees Fahrenheit. This thermal range creates an optimal environment, expediting the germination process.
6. Monitoring Germination: Patience is paramount. Depending on various factors, philodendron seeds may require anywhere between two to eight weeks to germinate. Observing the emergence of seedlings is a testament to your meticulous care.
7. Transplanting Seedlings: Once these seedlings manifest and attain a degree of sturdiness that makes them amenable to handling, the next phase involves transplantation. Gently move each seedling to its individual pot. This relocation fosters robust root development, ensuring each philodendron seedling establishes itself as an independent, thriving plant.

Potting and repotting philodendrons

The process of potting and subsequently repotting philodendrons is a vital practice to ensure the plant’s optimal growth and longevity.  Just as you would be attentive to the nutritional needs and environment of this tropical perennial, it is imperative for you to understand and adeptly execute the nuances of this procedure.

Initial Potting:

1. Choosing the Right Container: As you begin, it’s essential to select a container slightly larger than the philodendron’s current root ball. Ensure the container possesses adequate drainage holes to prevent water stagnation, which can lead to root rot.
2. Plant Placement: Position the philodendron within this new container such that its roots are comfortably spaced out, allowing for uninhibited growth.

Repotting:

Repotting is a necessary measure when the philodendron’s growth is restricted by its current confines. Here’s how you ascertain the need for repotting and how to execute it:

1. Identifying the Need: If you observe roots emerging from the surface of the soil or protruding from the drainage holes, it’s an unequivocal sign that the philodendron seeks a more spacious abode. This phenomenon indicates that the root system has outgrown its current confines.
2. Optimal Timing:  The late spring or early summer marks the most suitable period for repotting. During this season, the plant is in its active growth phase, and transitioning to a new pot will be least disruptive to its developmental rhythm.
3. Pot Selection: When choosing a new container, you should ideally opt for one that is a size larger than the current one. This ensures that the philodendron has adequate room for expansion, both above and below the soil.
4. The Repotting Process: Gently extricate the philodendron from its current pot, ensuring minimal disturbance to its root system. In the new container, introduce fresh soil at the base, positioning the plant centrally. Subsequently, fill around the plant with more soil, ensuring the roots are well covered yet not overly compacted.
5. Post-repotting Care: Once the plant has been successfully relocated, it’s essential to water it thoroughly. This ensures that the fresh soil is well settled and that any air pockets around the roots are effectively eliminated.

Common problems with philodendron varieties

While philodendrons are renowned for their resilience and minimal care requirements, they are not entirely free from challenges. As you delve into the realm of philodendron care, you might encounter a range of common issues that can affect your plant’s vitality.  Recognizing these issues and addressing them promptly can be a pivotal aspect of maintaining the health and appearance of your philodendron.

1. Pests & Plant Diseases: Although philodendrons generally face minimal threats from pests, they can sometimes attract common houseplant adversaries such as aphids, mealybugs, scale, thrips, and spider mites. Should you detect these pests, it’s advisable to treat them with a solution composed of water and dish soap, natural insecticidal soap, or horticultural oil. Specifically, for a homemade remedy, mix 1 tablespoon of dish soap with a quart of water and thoroughly spray your plant, covering all surfaces.

Additionally, philodendrons can be vulnerable to the mosaic virus.  Characterized by yellow patterns or lesions on the leaves, you should promptly isolate your plant to prevent this virus from spreading. During warmer seasons, it’s beneficial to position the affected plant outdoors, excise the impacted leaves, and rinse the remaining foliage to remove dust or contaminants. Fortifying the soil with a diluted, nitrogen-rich fertilizer can aid the plant’s recovery and rejuvenation.

2. Yellowing Leaves: Several factors can precipitate leaf yellowing in philodendrons, including the use of excessively cold water, inadequate sunlight, or overexposure to intense light. Notably, if the plant’s older leaves exhibit a yellow hue, it might be indicative of underwatering.  Conversely, if the younger leaves near the base turn yellow, overwatering could be the culprit. To rectify this, adjust your watering regimen and monitor the plant’s response.

When using fertilizers, it’s imperative to first moisten the soil, introduce a diluted fertilizer solution, and subsequently water again. This sequence ensures the roots remain unscathed by potential chemical burns, which could cause leaf yellowing.

3. Yellowing with a Rotting Odor: Rapid yellowing of leaves, accompanied by a decayed smell, often signals root rot. If identified early, it’s possible to salvage the plant. Examine the root system; if you discern blackened or mushy sections, these need to be excised. Preserve and replant the healthier white or yellow root segments in fresh soil within a sanitized container.

4. Browning Leaves: Leaf browning can arise from several reasons. Using water that’s too cold can shock the plant, leading to brown leaf edges. If these leaves begin to feel soggy, overwatering is likely the cause. Conversely,  brown and curling leaf edges might signify a need for increased hydration and reduced sun exposure. Moreover, brown leaf tips surrounded by yellow halos suggest heightened humidity is necessary. To enhance humidity, consider misting your plant or positioning its container atop a tray laden with pebbles and water, ensuring the base remains just above the waterline.

5. Droopy Leaves: Both overwatering and underwatering can lead to droopy leaves. It’s essential for you to strike a balance in your watering regimen. Always touch the soil and ensure it’s moderately moist, not overly saturated or bone dry.

6. Leggy Growth: If your philodendron is growing tall and spindly with significant spaces between leaves, it may be receiving inadequate light. While these plants don’t require direct sunlight, bright, indirect light is optimal. If you find the growth pattern leggy, consider moving the plant closer to a natural light source.

7. Stunted Growth: If your philodendron seems to be growing at an unusually slow pace or its leaves appear smaller than usual, it might be receiving insufficient nutrients. To combat this, introduce a balanced liquid fertilizer to its regimen, especially during its active growth phases in the spring and summer.

FAQ

Are philodendrons toxic to pets?

Yes, philodendrons contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can be harmful if ingested. They can cause irritation to the mouth, lips, and throat of pets and humans. It’s crucial to keep philodendrons out of reach from pets, especially cats and dogs.

How fast does philodendron grow?

Philodendrons, revered for their lush foliage and adaptability to indoor environments, exhibit a remarkable growth rate.  If you are keen on observing the growth trajectory of this popular houseplant, you will find that philodendrons can achieve a growth of up to 4 inches every week during their prime growing periods in the spring and summer. It’s essential for you to provide them with the right conditions – proper lighting, well-draining soil, and consistent moisture – to witness this impressive growth rate.

Can philodendrons be grown outdoors?

While philodendrons are commonly grown as houseplants, they can also thrive outdoors in warm, frost-free climates. However,  they should be planted in a location where they will receive indirect sunlight and should be brought indoors if temperatures are expected to drop below 55 degrees Fahrenheit.