Philodendrons

Origins

Philodendrons, which are part of the Araceae family, are a wide variety of plants with varied and decorative foliage and are rather easy to care for houseplants. They are native to Central and South America for the most part, but some varieties also come from Asia. There are several hundred species, all of which have in common that they come from tropical forests and grow under the canopy in their native habitat.

From the Greek philo (friend) and dendron (tree), philodendron is the plant "that loves trees", referring to certain climbing species that attach themselves to trees, using them as stakes to grow and achieve better light by gaining height.

 

Botanical viewpoint

Philodendrons are both evergreen shrubs and woody climbers. They are perennial plants in their natural habitat (but do not endure our Quebec winters), terrestrial, saxicolous (live on rocks) or epiphytic (use other plants as support), very often climbing and lianascent (having the appearance of a liana). Many philodendrons have long aerial roots.

This is a species that comes in many sizes and shapes and can have a variety of colors. Most philodendrons have green leaves, but some can be reddish-copper, orange, lime green, almost black, have creamy variegation or reddish veins, etc. Often the leaves are colorful, red, yellowish or orange when they are growing and then turn greener as they mature.

The philodendron is a fascinating plant in terms of the shape of its leaves. They can be cordate (heart-shaped), sagittate (arrow-shaped), oval or long and narrow. Some varieties have deeply lobed blades (the edge is cut inwards), making them simply spectacular. The foliage can be of very varied size according to the varieties.

Flowers are not the main attraction of philodendrons, but philodendrons do bloom. Their tiny flowers are white, yellow or cream and are assembled on a spadix (a spike), which is surrounded by a spathe (a leaf-like bract), which can vary in color depending on the species. The fruits produced, when there are any, are called berries.

 

Growth conditions

Brightness

Due to their native conditions, philodendrons like moist, shady locations. Easy to grow, they are tolerant of low light, but exposure to brighter light will give them more colorful leaves and stronger stems. The important thing to remember is that while they are tolerant of darker locations and also like good light, it is important not to expose them to direct sunlight, which can burn their leaves. A west-facing window would be a good exposure for philodendrons.

 

Watering and relative humidity

During the growing season (March-October), water regularly, letting the substrate dry on the surface between waterings. Avoid excess water and do not leave stagnant water in the saucer. Philodendrons are very sensitive to root rot. But at the same time, they like to have a slightly humid soil at all times. So you have to be very careful. If you see leaves turning yellow and falling off, it may be a sign of too much water. In winter, reduce watering, while avoiding letting the substrate dry out completely.

It should be noted that watering with water that is too cold can cause brown spots on the leaves. It is therefore recommended to water with water at room temperature, preferably having rested 24 hours.

Since philodendrons appreciate high relative humidity, some recommend misting them with tempered water if your environment is dry. Placing a humidifier nearby is an even better solution, as the moisture particles are so fine that they are better absorbed by the plants and you also avoid getting water droplet stains on your leaves.
 

Fertilization

It is recommended to fertilize about once a month during the growing season (March-October) with a balanced fertilizer, type 1-1-1. Gaïa Green's all purpose fertilizerfor example, is perfect for the needs of philodendrons. 

You can also add Earthalive Soil Activator to your watering water, a natural fertilizer composed of beneficial bacteria that allow for better availability of nutrients in the soil.
Elongated, thin stems and increasingly sparse leaves may indicate a lack of nutrients or light. Therefore, it will be appropriate to place the plant in a brighter room and to fertilize.

 

Substrate

Your philodendrons will do well in a draining, aerated, slightly acidic substrate rich in organic matter. A potting soil for tropical plants will be perfect (for example: Connaisseur Potting Soil, Promix Potting Soil or our home-made mix).

You can also amend your substrate to increase the organic matter. For this, different options are available to you, such as adding insect droppings or worm compost to your potting soil, which will be an excellent source of organic matter in addition to acting as a long-term fertilizer.

 

Potting

Concerning repotting, you must be careful not to repot in pots that are too big because, generally speaking, philodendrons like it when they are cramped in containers. For large plants that do not want to change containers, but that show signs of nutrient deficiency, you can do a topdressing: remove a layer of the old soil and replace it with new soil. When watering, the nutrients will be incorporated into the substrate and eventually reach the root system.  

 

Plant Care

Some varieties of philodendrons have aerial roots that can become quite large. It is recommended not to cut them off, as they are moisture collectors in the air and participate in the growth process of the plant. 

It is normal that some leaves will eventually dry out, just cut them off. Pinching the stems of the climbers will encourage their branching and help to have a denser plant.

To clean philodendrons, they can be placed under the shower and rinsed with a moderate, warm stream or cleaned with a damp sponge.

As for pests, philodendrons can be susceptible to mealy bugs and thrips, among others. It is suggested to watch for their appearance, especially during hot and dry conditions, and to treat to prevent pests from damaging your plant.

 

Toxicity

Be careful if you have children or pets, as all philodendrons are poisonous when ingested.

 

Varieties

There are climbing philodendrons and non-climbing philodendrons. Let's take a closer look at these differences.

 

Climbing varieties

Climbing varieties, such as Philodendron hederaceum and its varieties (Philodendron hederaceum Brasil, Micans, Aureum) are often grown in hanging baskets, in totems (staked) or for plant walls. They are in fact climbers if you put a support for them to climb, but you can also say that they are creeping or drooping depending on where you place them. In general, the higher they climb, the larger the leaves. In their native habitat, climbing philodendrons can reach up to 6 meters in length. In our homes, they can be pruned regularly to control growth and stimulate branching.

 

 

Non-climbers

Non-climbing varieties, such as Philodendron bipinnatifidum (or Philodendron selloum) and Philodendron 'Mccolley's Finale have a rather tree-like habit and are grown in pots. Most of them can grow to a good size, so keep this in mind when purchasing.

 

Our favorite non-climbing philodendrons

Philodendron 'Birkin'

Philodendron 'Birkin' has a shrubby, fairly compact habit and dark green leaves with light yellow or cream variegation. Each leaf will be different from the last. A hybrid from a mutation of Philodendron 'Rojo Congo', it is not found in the wild. It is a little smaller in size than other philodendrons and is rather slow growing. Philodendron 'Birkin' is more tolerant of dry air than other philodendrons and adapts to a wide variety of lighting conditions. It will, however, need bright indirect light to maintain its beautiful variegation.

 

 

Philodendron 'Prince of Orange'

The Philodendron 'Prince of Orange' was named after its leaves which have the singularity of changing color a few times before their maturity. The '"Prince of Orange' is a beautiful species with intense orange-bronze leaves that later turn salmon. Over time, the leaves turn golden, then light green, and when mature they turn dark green. You can find all these colors at the same time on one plant! This makes it a very special ornamental plant.

 

 

Philodendron billietiae

Philodendron billietiae is endemic to two regions, one near the Rio Oiapoque in French Guiana and the other in Brazil near the Rio Negro. In its natural habitat, this variety has been seen growing at ground level near rocks or as an epiphyte on trees. The leaves of this specimen are robust, rather triangular, long and narrow, and can reach an impressive length of 3 feet (90 cm). Philodendron billietiae produces dark, semi-bright leaves on the upper surface but much paler and slightly shiny on the lower surface. The leaf edges are wavy and the petioles are orange-yellow, giving it a really special look.

 

 

Philodendron 'Black Cardinal

The Philodendron Black Cardinal', sometimes called 'Blushing Philodendron or Philodendron erubescens 'Black Cardinal', has a shrubby habit and large, oval, glossy blackish green leaves. When new leaves emerge, they are rolled in a burgundy sheath and are initially burgundy red. As they mature, they become dark green and with time, they will become almost black. This philodendron can reach 3 feet (90 cm) high.

 

 

Philodendron 'Moonlight

Philodendron 'Moonlight' is a bright philodendron with lanceolate (spear-shaped), lime-yellow, almost fluorescent foliage. As the leaves age, they become a little darker. It has a shrubby habit and is rather slow growing. It is not a climber, strictly speaking, but it may need a stake eventually to better hold itself. At maturity, Philodendron 'Moonlight' reaches a maximum height of 20 to 24 inches (50-60 cm) and a width of 20 to 26 inches (50 to 66 cm).

 

Philodendron 'Kathleen 

Philodendron 'Kathleen' (or 'Cathaline') is a clever blend of 'Prince of Orange' and 'Mccolley's Finale'. With its 'Prince of Orange' look and the bright reddish coloring of 'Mccolley's Finale', it is a wonder of fall colors. In the post-shrub stage, this philodendron has tapered lanceolate leaves that emerge in shades of red and gradually fade to green.

 

 

Philodendron melinonii 'Green 

The Philodendron melinonii 'Green' is non-thrifty and has large, dark green oblong-triangular waxy leaves with clearly defined veins that can easily grow to 19" (48 cm) long and are supported by a thick petiole that can vary in color from coppery red to pale green. In its natural habitat, it can be seen atop trees like a crown, making it a philodendron that can tolerate direct sunlight a bit more than others. It should not be overused, however, as the foliage can yellow and burn. This plant, will grow quite large (4 to 6 feet - 1 to 1.8 m.) in width and height) if conditions are optimal, so allow for space, but also know that you can prune it without any problem to control it.

 

 

Philodendron goeldii

The Philodendron goeldii is also known as 'Finger Leaf' because of the really singular shape of its leaves. Indeed, this plant has a very particular foliage: with spiral stems, the leaves are spread out like the fingers of a hand, and when they are big, it gives it a palm tree look. This makes it a spectacular plant. It is a medium-growing, non-climbing philodendron that can reach 6 feet (2 m.) in height. Botanists have recently classified it in the genus Thaumatophyllum Spruceanuma, rather than in the Philodendrons following some discoveries.

 

Our favorite climbing philodendrons

Philodendron erubescens 'Pink Princess'

ThePhilodendron erubescens'Pink Princess' is undoubtedly one of the most popular plants of the moment. With its glossy, dark green, almost black foliage and beautiful light pink variegation, it is not called 'Pink Princess' for nothing. The leaves ofPPP, as it is sometimes called, are indeed a dazzling contrast to the splashes of pink. This variegation is not constant, so each new leaf will be a surprise. ThePhilodendron erubescens are climbers by nature, so be sure to give it a trellis or pole to climb on. As it grows, gently attach the vine to the support structure. 

The combination of green and pink colors is necessary for your'Pink Princess' to thrive. The green parts are essential for photosynthesis. So, if too many leaves start to turn pink, your plant will have trouble feeding and may die. On the other hand, if you have too much green, you lose what makes your plant a 'Pink Princess '. If you notice new leaves growing in pure pink, prune the stems just above the node (the place where your new variegated leaves will grow). Ideally, you try to keep one last leaf on the stem with a balanced variegation.

 

  

Philodendron erubescens 'White Knight'

Philodendron erubescens 'White Knight' has oval, glossy leaves and looks very similar to 'Pink Princess', but with white variegation rather than pink.Philodendron erubescens are climbers by nature, so be sure to give it a trellis or post to climb on. As it grows, gently attach the vine to the support structure. The leaves will grow in size when grown vertically.

The variegation will differ from leaf to leaf. One leaf may emerge with little or no variegation and the next leaf may emerge with little or no green. This is all part of the charm of this houseplant, but be aware that good light will promote variegation development. The combination of green and white colors is necessary for your White Knight thrives. The green parts are essential for photosynthesis. So if too many leaves start to turn white, your plant will have trouble feeding itself and may die. On the other hand, if you have too much green, you lose what makes your plant a White Knight'. If you notice new leaves growing in pure white, prune the stems just above the node (the place where your new variegated leaves will grow). Ideally, you try to keep one last leaf on the stem with balanced variegation.

  

  

Philodendron imbe

The Philodendron imbe is a rare variety. It is a fairly fast growing plant that can produce stems extending to nearly 16 feet (5 m.). The large, glossy, green leaves are quite leathery and have a cordate-sagittate shape. These stems dropping from hanging baskets, climbing trellises or twisting on stakes will give a truly exotic look to your decor. This philodendron is not fussy about lighting. It can handle bright, indirect light as well as low light. That said, if the leaves are getting smaller and the stems lack vigor, it's a sign that it's not enough.

 

 

Philodendron 'Ring of Fire

The Philodendron ''Ring of Fire', previously called Philodendron 'Henderson's Pride' has large, deeply serrated leaves that grow in shades of orange, red, cream and green, giving it the look of a burning fire. It is a very slow growing climbing specimen. As it climbs, we suggest you attach it to a sphagnum moss stake. In wetter environments, it is normal to see many aerial roots forming. If you want stronger variegation, move your plant to a location that receives brighter light (but not direct sunlight). Allow the soil to dry out more between waterings during winter seasons.

 

 

 

Philodendron 'Florida Ghost'

Philodendron 'Florida Ghost', named for the ghost-like shape of its leaves, is a rare tropical plant that is highly prized by collectors. Also known as 'White Ghost', this climbing cultivar produces unique leaves, up to nearly a foot long (30 cm), that emerge white, then slowly turn to cream and then various shades of green until they reach a dark green at full maturity. Each climbing stem bears several large leaves that continue to grow as the vine expands. This plant, which can grow to 8 feet (nearly 2.5 m.) in the wild, will reach 2 to 4 feet (60 to 120 cm) tall in your homes. Because it is slow growing, it will take about 10 years before it reaches this size. It will do well in a north facing window.

 

 

Philodendron 'Narrow

Philodendron 'Narrow' (sometimes called 'Tiger Tooth' or 'Jungle Boogie') has beautiful, long, narrow, heavily serrated green leaves. Its leaves can reach 2.5 feet (75 cm) in length. Coming from tropical rainforests, it is a variety of philodendron yet able to withstand an environment with lower relative humidity than most philodendrons. It will need to be supported with a stake and can develop long aerial roots. Allow for space if you adopt a 'Narrow' Philodendron, as it is fast growing and can take up a lot of room if it is happy. And it doesn't take much to make it happy.

 

Philodendron 'Jose Buono'

Philodendron 'Jose Buono' (sometimes called Philodendron 'Jose Bueno') has large, paddle-shaped variegated leaves with white patterns that vary considerably from plant to plant. Growing up to 2 feet (60 cm) long, the leaves of 'Jose Buono' are sure to add an exotic flair to your environment. It is a vigorous climber and can reach 12 to 20 feet (3.5 m. to 6 m.) in height, but it will require patience, as this philodendron is slow growing. And if it becomes invasive, it will bear pruning well. 

 

 

Philodendron mamei 'Silver Cloud'

Philodendron mamei 'Silver Cloud' is creeping and although it grows as a ground cover, it is also epiphytic and can climb trees. It has large green cordate (heart-shaped) leaves with heavy silver variegation. The leaves of Philodendronmamei 'Silver Cloud' are thinner than those of many other species and their deep veins give the leaves a slightly wrinkled appearance. The petiole (which connects the stem to the leaf) is dark reddish brown. The mature size of this philodendron can reach 3 feet (90 cm) and its leaves can be up to 18" wide in the wild. In your home, expect leaves to be more like 5-8" wide (12-20 cm). Climbing it to a stake will encourage leaf size development.

 

 

Philodendron Red Sun

Philodendron 'Red Sun', sometimes called Philodendron 'Sun Red', is a very decorative, fairly fast growing climbing variety. It is a good climber, with vines that can get quite long (6 feet - 1.8 m.), so a stake is needed. Its glossy, color-changing foliage is simply spectacular. Its new oval leaves emerge in shades of very bright red, turning to burgundy and eventually turning green. The different leaves that grow and develop at different times make this plant beautiful and attractive.

 

Philodendron 'Golden Goddess'

The Philodendron 'Golden Goddess', also called Philodendron 'Malay Goldis a fast growing, climbing variety, easy for beginners. With its light green foliage, extremely bright, this philodendron adds a lot of contrast when put through other plants. It can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 m.) high if it is in a suitable environment. This philodendron can survive in low light conditions, but if you want to see truly golden yellow leaves, place it in a location with more intense light, but without direct sun.

 

Philodendron melanochrysum

The Philodendron melanochrysum is sometimes called the Philodendron andreanumBlack Gold', 'Black Gold Philodendron or 'Velvet' Philodendron Philodendron. When the heart-shaped leaves of this vigorously climbing philodendron first unfurl, they are a lighter green with yellow-brown undertones. Eventually, they darken to a beautiful dark green, are velvety and have yellowish veins running through them. Melanochrysum means "black gold" and aptly describes the tiny golden sparks sometimes seen when the velvety blackish-green blades of mature plants are exposed to light. Like many other Philodendrons, the leaves change shape and lengthen as the plant climbs. They can grow to about a meter (100 cm) in length. This Philodendron can get very large, but it will handle pruning well if you need to control it.

 

Philodendron 'Splendid'

Philodendron 'Splendid', sometimes also called Philodendron 'Glorious', is a cross betweenPhilodendron verrucosum andPhilodendron melanochrysum. It has large velvety (its heritage from melanochrysum) and veined (its heritage fromverrucosum) leaves that are breathtaking. The lanceolate (spear-shaped) or cordate (heart-shaped) leaves have light green veins and each leaf is covered with a soft fuzz that gives it a shiny satin look. In addition, the underside of the leaves is a mixture of red and green colors. The large leaves can grow up to two feet (60 cm) long. The 'Splendid' is relatively fast growing and if it climbs on a stake, it will develop larger leaves. In its natural environment, this philodendron can reach 10 feet (3m.) high. It is a philodendron that has a rather imposing root system, so it needs a container that is perhaps a little larger than most other philodendrons. Given its rarity, it will probably be small when you buy it, but you should know that if you make it happy, you need to have enough room, because it will grow huge.

 

Philodendron 'Fuzzy Petiole'

The Philodendron Fuzzy Petiole', also called Philodendron nangaritenseis aptly named. As the stems and leaves mature, they change in appearance to red hairy stems (covered with thick, unruly hairs) and more ribbed, larger leaves. Immature plants do not show pubescence. While the cordate (heart-shaped) leaves look rather ordinary when they first grow, as the plant grows, they emerge dark pink, changing to dark green, and take on a stunning leathery texture over time. The contrast between the green of the leaf and the red petiole is striking and makes this species a must have for any collection. This is a philodendron that likes to crawl in its natural environment, so it may be worth giving it a chance to do so. Alternatively, it can also be climbed to a stake or trellis to watch it flourish.

 

Philodendron squamiferum

The Philodendron squamiferumalso known as 'Hairy Philodendronhas thick, leathery, dark green foliage and pubescent stems covered with red hairs. This philodendron really changes its appearance as it grows. In its juvenile state, the leaf is barely lobed (oak leaf shape), but as the leaf gains size, up to about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm), the lobes become more distinctive. The truly singular shape of the glossy leaves makes it a prime plant for collectors. The Philodendron squamiferum has a rather average growth, is climbing and can reach nearly 6 feet (1,8 m.). You can prune it without any problem if you need to control its growth.

  

Philodendronwarszewiczii'Aurea Flavum

Philodendron warszewiczii (or Philodendron warscewiczii, also known as the 'Snowflake Leaf' Philodendron) has large, semi-glossy, exotic-looking sagittate (arrow-shaped) leaves that are highly serrated (their blade is cut into several segments). No leaf is exactly the same as the other. In its natural environment, this philodendron frequently grows on rocks, but it is also found as an epiphyte as a climbing species. In its natural environment, its leaves can grow up to 30" (78 cm) long and 24" (60 cm) wide. The warszewiczii is rather fast growing, and gets very large. This is to be expected if you adopt it.

The Philodendron warszewiczii 'AureaFlavum' is the golden version of this beautiful plant. It will add a lot of light to any setting. It requires the same care as the traditional version, but be sure to give it enough light to keep that bright color (not too much sun which can burn the leaf).

 

As you will have noticed, philodendrons are quite easy to care for and their great diversity makes them a plant of choice for any gardener. There is bound to be one that can be integrated into your decor. Which one should you choose?