Meet the Philodendron family

An introduction to Philodendrons

Philodendrons are loved by plant enthusiasts worldwide for their lush, green foliage and easy-going nature. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a newbie looking to add a touch of greenery to your space, Philodendrons are a fantastic choice.

Let’s explore the Philodendron family, and ideal environments for these plants, and offer essential care tips to keep your Philodendrons thriving.

Background, symbolism and variants we love

The Philodendrons are part of the broader Araceae (Arum) family that originates from Central and South America (Caribbean, Colombia, and Venezuela). The first discovery of Philodendrons was around 1644 while the name was only given in 1829. Philodendron is derived from the Greek ‘Philo’ which means love or affection, and ‘Dendron’ which means tree. The plant symbolises health, peace, joy, and abundance. 

Did you know that Pablo Picasso incorporated a Philodendron in his ‘Woman in the Garden’ sculpture?

Picasso: Woman in the Garden

The Philodendron family is vast, with over 480 species accepted by most bodies and over 600 by Plants of the World Online, varying in shape, size, and growth habits. Most in the family start out as vines and then grow into epiphytes (plants that live upon other plants)

Here are a few popular variants that we love:

Philodendron hederaceum (Heartleaf Philodendron)

Known for its heart-shaped leaves and vining growth, the Heartleaf Philodendron is a classic choice for indoor spaces. This plant is particularly favored for its ability to thrive in a variety of indoor conditions, making it an excellent option for both beginners and experienced plant owners. Its trailing vines can be displayed beautifully in hanging baskets or allowed to climb up trellises and moss poles.

Heartleaf Philodendron, Source: House Beautiful

Philodendron erubescens (Prince of Orange)

This variant stands out with its reddish stems and dark green, sometimes reddish, leaves. It’s a climber, making it perfect for trellises or poles. The vibrant foliage adds a pop of color to any room, and its climbing nature means it can create an impressive vertical display. The Philodendron Erubescens is known for its robust growth, provided it receives adequate support and care.

Philodendron bipinnatifidum (Lacy leaf Philodendron)

A larger variant, the Lacy Leaf Philodendron features deeply lobed leaves and can grow quite large, making it a great statement plant. This species is perfect for spacious indoor areas where it can have room to spread. Its dramatic, sculptural leaves create a tropical ambiance, and it’s a favorite for those looking to make a bold statement with their indoor greenery.

Lacy Leaf Philodendron, Source: Gardener’s Path

Philodendron gloriosum

With its velvety leaves and prominent white veins, the Philodendron Gloriosum is a stunning, creeping variant that grows horizontally. This plant’s unique growth pattern and striking foliage make it a conversation piece in any collection. It’s ideal for tabletops or lower shelves where its crawling habit can be fully appreciated.

Philodendron Gloriosum, Source: The Spruce

Philodendron birkin

The Philodendron Birkin boasts striking dark green leaves with creamy white pinstripes. It is known for being a compact plant that’s perfect for tabletops and shelves. The Birkin’s unique variegation pattern has made it a popular plant in recent years, and its relatively small size makes it versatile for various indoor settings.

Philodendron Birkin, Source: The Spruce

Philodendron xanadu

This variant has glossy, deeply dissected leaves and grows in a compact, bushy form. It’s ideal for adding a tropical touch to any indoor space. The Philodendron Xanadu’s lush, dense foliage makes it an excellent choice for filling in gaps in plant displays or creating a green backdrop for other, more colourful plants.

Philodendron Xanadu, Source: Gardenia

Environments where Philodendrons thrive

Philodendrons are native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, thriving in humid, warm environments with dappled light. Here’s where they generally thrive:

Indoors: They are well-suited for indoor conditions where they receive bright, indirect light. They can adapt to lower light conditions, but growth may slow down. Creating a spot that mimics their natural habitat will help them thrive. This means placing them in well-lit rooms but away from direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves.

Greenhouses: These provide the perfect humid and warm environment that mimics their natural habitat. In a greenhouse, Philodendrons can reach their full potential, exhibiting lush growth and vibrant colors. The controlled environment allows for optimal humidity and temperature, crucial for their development.

Outdoors in tropical/subtropical regions: In regions that don’t experience frost, Philodendrons can thrive outdoors in shaded areas. They can be planted under the canopy of larger trees or in protected garden spots where they receive filtered sunlight. Outdoor Philodendrons can grow larger and more robust than their indoor counterparts, given the right conditions.

How to care for your Philodendrons

Light requirements: Philodendrons prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can result in leggy growth and smaller leaves. Place your Philodendron near a north or east-facing window. If the light is too intense, you could use a sheer curtain to lessen the impact. Consistent lighting conditions help maintain their vibrant green colour and overall health.

Source: Bob Vila

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, a common issue with Philodendrons. You should water when the top of the soil feels dry to the touch, and in winter, due to the plant growth slowing down, consider cutting back on watering frequency. Using pots with drainage holes is crucial to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom, which can lead to root rot.

Humidity and temperature: Philodendrons love humidity and temperatures between 18-27°C. They can tolerate lower humidity but may develop brown leaf tips. To combat this, use a humidifier or consider placing the plant on a tray filled with pebbles and water (as this helps increase humidity). You should avoid placing your Philodendron near cold drafts or heating vents/heaters. Maintaining a stable, warm environment will keep your Philodendron happy and healthy, and misting the leaves occasionally can also help maintain the required humidity.

Soil and fertilization: Use a well-draining, aerated soil mix. A good combination of potting soil, peat moss, and perlite is recommended. Try to fertilize during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Feed your Philodendron every 4-6 weeks from spring to early Autumn. Similarly to watering instructions, you should avoid fertilizing during Winter as the plant growth slows down. A nutrient-rich, well-draining soil mix promotes strong root development and overall plant health.

Pruning and propagation: Philodendrons are easy to propagate through stem cuttings. To propagate, cut a healthy stem with at least two nodes, remove the lower leaves, and place it in water or moist soil until roots develop. Proper pruning and propagation techniques can lead to a fuller, more vibrant plant.

Common problems and colutions

Philodendrons are generally hardy plants, but they can encounter a few common issues:

Yellowing leaves: This is often a sign of overwatering and/or poor drainage. Ensure the soil is draining properly, and allow it to dry out slightly between waterings. You could also try to adjust your watering schedule and check that the pot has adequate drainage.

Source: Plantly

Brown leaf tips: These are typically caused by low humidity. To increase humidity you could use a humidifier or pebble tray (see humidity & temperature above). Regular misting can also help, but avoid over-wetting the leaves, which can lead to fungal issues.

Pests: Philodendrons can attract pests like aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Regularly inspect your plant and treat any infestations as soon as possible with insecticidal soap or neem oil. To prevent the spread to other houseplants you should isolate affected plants.

Leggy growth: This occurs when the plant stretches towards light, indicating it’s not getting enough light. Move your Philodendron to a brighter spot, but avoid direct sunlight. See our light requirements above for further insight. 

Decorative uses of Philodendrons

Philodendrons are not just easy to care for but also incredibly versatile in terms of decor. Here are a few ideas on how to incorporate these beautiful plants into your home:

Hanging baskets: Trailing varieties like the Heartleaf Philodendron look stunning in hanging baskets. Their vines can grow long and cascade down, adding a touch of elegance to any room.

Vertical gardens: Use climbing varieties like Philodendron Erubescens to create a vertical garden. This can be an eye-catching feature in your living room or office space.

Centrepieces: Compact varieties like the Philodendron Birkin can serve as attractive centerpieces on dining tables, coffee tables, or desks.

White Knight Philodendron, Source: Cost Farms

Room dividers
Large varieties such as the Philodendron Bipinnatifidum can be used as natural room dividers, bringing a piece of the outdoors inside and providing privacy.

Conclusion

Caring for Philodendrons can be incredibly rewarding. Their ability to adapt to various indoor conditions and their stunning foliage make them a favourite among plant enthusiasts. By following these care tips, you can ensure your Philodendrons remain healthy and vibrant, bringing a touch of nature’s beauty into your home.