philodendron plant types

Discover Beautiful Philodendron Plant Types

Imagine turning your home into a lush, tropical paradise with just one plant. The philodendron is a fascinating group with over 450 species. They come in many shapes, colors, and growth patterns. These plants are great for indoor spaces because they’re easy to care for, clean the air, and look amazing.

But with so many philodendron varieties out there, picking the right one can be tough.

In this guide, we’ll show you the most beautiful and unique philodendron types. We’ll talk about their special features, how they grow, and what they need to thrive. Whether you want a plant that cascades, a compact bush, or a tall one, we’ve got you covered. Find the perfect philodendron to make your indoor space stunning and feed your love for plants.

Key Takeaways

  • Philodendrons are a diverse genus with over 450 species and varieties.
  • These tropical plants offer a wide range of leaf shapes, sizes, and colors to suit any indoor space.
  • Philodendrons are known for their easy care, air-purifying abilities, and stunning visual appeal.
  • From climbing vines to compact, upright plants, philodendrons come in a variety of growth habits.
  • Discover the most unique and captivating philodendron types to transform your home into a lush, tropical oasis.

Introduction to Philodendron Plants

What are Philodendrons?

Philodendrons are tropical plants from the Americas. The name “philodendron” means “tree lover” in Greek. This is because many species climb or trail on trees in the wild. Yet, there are also types that are perfect for indoor spaces.

Philodendron’s Unique Characteristics

Philodendrons have lush, varied leaves that can be heart-shaped or deeply lobed. They often show off vibrant colors like green, yellow, pink, and black. Plus, they can create stunning floral displays with their spathe and spadix.

  • Around 450 species of Philodendron plants exist in the genus Philodendron.
  • Philodendrons are native to tropical America.
  • Some species of Philodendron begin as vines and then become epiphytes.
  • Philodendrons are popular potted plants for homes and offices due to their adaptation to low light levels.
Philodendron Characteristic Description
Leaf Color Philodendrons vary in leaf color, which can be green, coppery, red, or purplish.
Fruit The fruit of a Philodendron is a white to orange berry.
Growth Habit Philodendrons are climbers, with most growing upward by wrapping their roots around tree trunks. They can transform into epiphytes once they reach the canopy.

“Philodendrons are popular potted plants for homes and offices due to their adaptation to low light levels.”

Types of Philodendron Plants

The philodendron genus has over 480 species. This offers a wide range of plants for indoor gardeners. From vines to upright plants, they come in many sizes, shapes, and colors. We’ll look at some popular and unique philodendron types.

The Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) is well-known. It can grow up to 3 feet wide and 13 feet long. The Brasil Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum ‘Brasil’) has bright green leaves with a yellow-green stripe. The Philodendron Micans (Philodendron hederaceum var. Hederaceum) has velvety leaves, growing up to 8 inches tall and 24 inches long.

The Lemon-Lime Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum ‘Lemon-Lime’) adds a citrus touch with its vibrant leaves. They can grow up to 6 feet long. The Philodendron Birkin (Philodendron ‘Birkin’) is a hybrid with white-striped green leaves. It grows up to 3 feet tall and wide.

Philodendron Variety Mature Size
Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) 1-3 ft. wide, 3-13 ft. long
Brasil Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum ‘Brasil’) 6-36 in. tall, 12-36 in. wide
Philodendron Micans (Philodendron hederaceum var. Hederaceum) 8 in. tall, 24 in. long
Lemon-Lime Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum ‘Lemon-Lime’) 12 in. tall, 6 ft. long
Philodendron Birkin (Philodendron ‘Birkin’) 3 ft. tall, 3 ft. wide

philodendron plant types

Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)

The heartleaf philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) is a well-known philodendron variety. It has small, heart-shaped, jade green leaves. It grows as a vine, perfect for hanging baskets and planters.

Appearance and Growth Habits

The heartleaf philodendron has medium to small, glossy green leaves shaped like hearts. It can grow several feet long. Its leaves are arranged alternately along the stems.

Its compact size and trailing nature make it great for indoor spaces. It can be trained to climb or cascade from hanging baskets.

Care Requirements

Heartleaf philodendrons thrive in bright, indirect light. They should be watered when the soil is dry. This variety is easy to grow and low-maintenance.

Regular fertilization and occasional pruning help keep it healthy. They promote new growth.

The heartleaf philodendron is popular for its beautiful foliage and versatile growth. It adds natural elegance to any indoor space. Its easy care makes it perfect for both new and experienced plant lovers.

Brasil Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum ‘Brasil’)

The Brasil philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum ‘Brasil’) is a special type of heartleaf philodendron. It stands out with its lime green to yellow leaves. It’s easy to care for, needing bright, indirect light to stay colorful.

This philodendron can grow up to 4-6 ft. tall and 1-6 ft. wide. It does best in USDA hardiness zones 10-12. It comes from Central America and the Caribbean. It grows fast and needs a balanced fertilizer every month in spring and summer.

Propagating the Brasil philodendron is easy. You can do it with stem cuttings, which root in 2-4 weeks. It might need some pruning to keep it from getting too big. Prune it in spring or early summer.

To keep its leaves bright, the Brasil philodendron needs plenty of indirect light. If leaves curl, it might not have enough water. Brown tips on leaves mean it’s too dry or getting too much sun. Repot it every 1-2 years to keep it healthy.

Brasil Philodendron

Watch out for pests like mealybugs, scale, spider mites, and fungus gnats. Giving it a moss pole or trellis helps it grow better. It loves to climb.

The Brasil philodendron is a favorite for its beauty and easy care. It’s easy to find and not expensive. It keeps its striking leaves looking great with a little care.

Philodendron Micans (Philodendron hederaceum var. Hederaceum)

The Philodendron micans is a stunning philodendron variety. It has small, velvety dark green leaves and grows in a trailing way. It’s a beautiful addition to any indoor space.

Unique Velvet-Textured Leaves

The Philodendron micans has unique velvety leaves that are 8-12 inches long. These leaves are heart-shaped and dark green, giving the plant a lush look. The soft, fuzzy feel of the leaves comes from their special structure.

Growing Conditions

Philodendron micans thrives in medium to bright indirect light and needs watering when the soil is almost dry. It’s a cultivar of the heartleaf philodendron and needs similar care. Right watering and light are key for its vibrant leaves and healthy growth.

The Philodendron micans is a captivating and easy-to-care-for plant. It’s perfect for hanging baskets or climbing up trellises. Its stunning leaves and low maintenance make it a favorite among plant lovers.

Lemon-Lime Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum ‘Lemon-Lime’)

The lemon-lime philodendron is a special type of heartleaf philodendron. It has bright neon green and yellow leaves that make any room look better. This plant loves to grow up and looks great in hanging baskets or on tall shelves.

It needs bright, indirect light to keep its colors bright. The leaves can be yellow to chartreuse, and the stems can grow up to 12 feet. Make sure not to overwater, as it can cause yellow leaves. Underwatering might make leaves turn brown.

Philodendrons like medium to bright indirect sunlight. They can also do well in lower light. During the growing season, use a diluted fertilizer every two weeks. It’s also important to remove any dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy.

Lemon-Lime Philodendron Care Essentials Recommendations
Light Medium to bright indirect sunlight
Watering Allow top 50% of soil to dry before watering
Fertilizer Diluted liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks during growing season
Grooming Regularly remove dead, discolored, damaged, or diseased leaves and stems

All parts of the lemon-lime philodendron are toxic to humans, dogs, and cats. This is because of the insoluble calcium oxalates in it. So, it’s crucial to handle it carefully.

lemon-lime philodendron

The Philodendron hederaceum species, which the lemon-lime philodendron comes from, is found in South America, Central America, and parts of the Caribbean. It has been grown indoors for hundreds of years. People used to smuggle cuttings to Florida and then share them with more people.

Philodendron Birkin (Philodendron ‘Birkin’)

Philodendron Birkin (Philodendron ‘Birkin’) is a trendy new hybrid. It has medium-sized leaves that are deep green with white pinstripes. These plants grow by climbing and are slow-growing, needing bright, indirect light.

Trendy Hybrid Variety

Philodendron ‘Birkin’ is a favorite among plant lovers. Its unique variegation takes time to develop. With over 500 Philodendron species, ‘Birkin’ stands out for its medium-sized leaves.

Care and Maintenance

To keep your Philodendron Birkin happy, use a well-draining potting mix. Water it when the top inch of soil feels dry. With the right care, it can do well indoors. It’s best to buy ‘Birkin’ plants when they’re available, as they’re in high demand.

Here are the key care tips for Philodendron Birkin:

  • Bright, indirect light
  • Well-draining, acidic to neutral potting mix
  • Watering when the top inch of soil is dry
  • Fertilizing every two months during spring and summer
  • Repotting when roots grow out of the drainage holes

By meeting these needs, your Philodendron Birkin will stay beautiful and healthy indoors.

“Philodendron ‘Birkin’ is a popular and sought-after plant among enthusiasts.”

Philodendron Erubescens

The Philodendron erubescens is a robust climbing philodendron with large, emerald-green leaves. It’s also known as the blushing philodendron because of the red and pink undertones on its leaves. This adaptable plant can grow between 3 to 6 meters in height, depending on its environment. It typically takes about 5 years to reach full maturity.

This plant can produce beautiful deep red flowers in its natural habitat. However, cultivated varieties like the Pink Princess philodendron, Philodendron ‘Imperial Green’, and Philodendron ‘Imperial Red,’ are more common in homes and gardens.

Cultivars and Varieties

The Philodendron Erubescens Ruby, Erubescens Red Emerald, Erubescens Green Emerald, and Erubescens Gold are also popular cultivars. The Philodendron Erubescens Red Emerald is particularly striking with its red petiole, midrib, and veins.

Cultivar Mature Size
Pink Princess 4-5 feet tall, 2-4 feet wide
Erubescens Imperial Red 3-4 feet tall, 2-3 feet wide
Erubescens Red Emerald 3-4 feet tall, 2-3 feet wide
Erubescens Green Emerald 3-4 feet tall, 2-3 feet wide
Erubescens Gold 3-4 feet tall, 2-3 feet wide

The Philodendron Erubescens requires medium indirect light. It prefers not to be placed in a south-facing window. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is indicated by yellow leaves. To keep this plant healthy, it’s essential to maintain proper watering and provide a humid environment.

Philodendron erubescens

Philodendrons, including the Erubescens, thrive in humid conditions. They can benefit from grouping plants together to increase humidity. The ideal room temperature for the Philodendron Erubescens ranges from 15 to 28 degrees Celsius. Monthly fertilizing can also help this plant produce large, healthy-looking leaves and be more disease-resistant.

Imperial Green Philodendron (Philodendron erubescens ‘Imperial Green’)

The imperial green philodendron has large, deep green leaves. It usually has five to six leaves at once. Each leaf can reach up to 18 inches long. It thrives in bright, indirect light.

Many people love this plant for its beautiful leaves and easy care. It needs bright, indirect light to grow well. Direct sunlight can burn its leaves.

How often to water this plant depends on the environment and soil. The top inch of soil should dry out before watering again. This prevents root rot. Keeping the air around it humid helps it grow well, especially in dry places.

Use a potting mix that drains well for this plant. A mix with peat moss, perlite, and pine bark works great. Feed it a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks in spring and summer. Stop fertilizing in winter.

Trim this plant to keep it looking good. Remove dead or damaged leaves. Cut long stems to make it bushier or to start new plants. It’s easy to grow more plants from cuttings.

Watch out for pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. If you see them, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of them. This keeps your plant healthy.

Philodendron Black Cardinal (Philodendron erubescens ‘Black Cardinal’)

The philodendron black cardinal (Philodendron erubescens ‘Black Cardinal’) is easy to care for. It has large, changing leaves. New leaves start burgundy, then turn green and black as they grow.

This plant is loved for its dramatic look. It’s perfect for those who want a bold addition to their home.

Color-Changing Leaves

The philodendron black cardinal’s leaves change color. They start burgundy, then turn green and almost black. This change happens because of the light it gets.

For the best color, give it bright, indirect light. A bit of direct sun in the morning and evening makes its black color pop.

Growing Tips

This plant likes bright, indirect light. It also enjoys some direct sun in the morning and evening. It grows up to 3 feet tall indoors.

It needs well-drained soil and regular watering. The soil should dry a bit between waterings. Keeping the humidity high, around 60-80%, helps it thrive.

The philodendron black cardinal is a stunning plant. It’s easy to care for and has beautiful, changing leaves. Its compact size makes it great for many indoor spaces.

Philodendron Black Cardinal

Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ (Philodendron erubescens ‘Prince of Orange’)

The ‘Prince of Orange’ is a stunning Philodendron erubescens cultivar. It gets its name from its golden-orange leaves. New leaves start yellow, then turn orange, and finally bright green.

This self-heading philodendron can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide. Its leaves can be up to 12 inches long. It needs bright, indirect light to keep its colors vibrant.

Some key facts about the Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’:

  • Typically reaches around 24 inches tall, with some plants growing up to 30 inches tall when conditions are optimal.
  • Falls under hardiness zones 9-11 (USDA).
  • A patented hybrid plant (patent number 6797).
  • Still a relatively rare philodendron variety.
  • Philodendrons, including the ‘Prince of Orange’, are toxic to pets and people if ingested.

The Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ comes from the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Its striking color and unique growth habits make it a highly sought-after addition to any plant enthusiast’s collection.

“The Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ is a true showstopper, with its vibrant hues and impressive size. It’s a testament to the beauty and diversity of the philodendron genus.”

Whether you’re an experienced plant parent or just starting, the Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ is a captivating choice. It’s sure to add a touch of tropical elegance to your living space.

Pink Princess Philodendron (Philodendron erubescens ‘Pink Princess’)

The pink princess philodendron is a rare and sought-after plant. It has bright pink variegation on deep green or maroon leaves. This climbing philodendron needs special care to keep its beauty.

Rare and Coveted Variety

This plant is a favorite among plant lovers. Its pink variegation is unique, making each plant special. In the past, mature plants could cost over $2,000.

Now, you can find them for $30 to $60. But, single-leaf cuttings can still cost hundreds online.

Care for Vibrant Variegation

To keep the pink princess looking good, it needs the right conditions. It likes high humidity and bright, indirect light. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep the soil well-draining and let it dry a bit between waterings. The best temperature for it is between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C).

Unlike the white knight philodendron, the pink princess grows slower. But, with proper care, it can become a treasured part of your indoor plants.

Pink Princess Philodendron

philodendron plant types

Philodendrons are fascinating tropical plants with over 450 species. They come in many shapes, sizes, and growth habits. You can find everything from trailing vines to compact, upright plants. They’re perfect for any indoor space and style.

These plants love warm, humid places. They have leaves that are glossy, heart-shaped, or have cool patterns. You can get plants like the Philodendron Micans or the Philodendron Xanadu, which is compact and doesn’t spread out.

Philodendrons are tough and can grow well in different light conditions. The Philodendron Brasil, for example, does great in bright light or more shaded areas. This makes it a great choice for many indoor spots.

If you’re looking for something special, the Philodendron genus has rare and beautiful plants. The Philodendron Pink Princess and the Philodendron White Knight are highly sought after. They have unique patterns that make them stand out in any collection.

Whether you’re new to plants or have been growing them for years, philodendrons are exciting to explore. They offer endless possibilities for your indoor garden. Your only limit is your creativity.

In summary, philodendrons come in many forms, from vines to upright plants. They have a wide range of leaves and colors, making them great for indoor gardens. Whether you want something easy to care for or a rare find, there’s a philodendron for you.

Tree Philodendron (Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum)

The tree philodendron, also known as Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum or the philodendron selloum, is a large-leafed philodendron variety. It has a self-heading growth habit. This plant is native to the rainforests of South America, mainly Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay.

As it matures, it develops a long, bare trunk with aerial roots. These roots reach towards the ground for support.

Indoors, the tree philodendron can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide. Its leaf stalks can reach up to 3 feet long. Outside, in zones 9-11, it can grow up to 15 feet tall.

It thrives in bright, indirect light. It prefers well-drained, acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5.

Tree philodendrons are budget-friendly, with a 2-gallon specimen costing around $17. They adapt well to typical household conditions, making them popular for indoor gardens.

Propagation is done through stem cuttings. Each cutting needs 2-3 leaves and a couple of nodes. Place them in water to root. Rooting starts in a couple of weeks, and repotting follows once roots are established.

Despite their size, they can get pests like spider mites, fungus gnats, aphids, and mealybugs. Regular checks and quick treatment are key to keeping them healthy.

tree philodendron

In 2018, the tree philodendron was reclassified from Philodendron to Thaumatophyllum. This change was due to its size and DNA. It’s one of nearly 500 philodendron varieties, many of which are popular houseplants.

Philodendron Xanadu (Thaumatophyllum Xanadu)

Philodendron Xanadu is a compact, bush-like plant with medium to large, deeply lobed oblong leaves. It is now formally classified under the Thaumatophyllum genus, but is still commonly referred to as a philodendron. Philodendron Xanadu appreciates bright, indirect light and consistent watering to thrive.

This perennial plant typically grows 3-5 feet tall and wide, thriving in partial shade conditions. It prefers acidic to neutral soil pH and can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. Philodendron Xanadu is native to South America and is known to be toxic to both humans and pets.

To care for Philodendron Xanadu, water the plant infrequently but deeply, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season in spring and summer. Propagation is easy using stem cuttings with nodes, and repotting is typically required every one to two years.

Philodendron Xanadu is susceptible to common houseplant issues such as yellow leaves due to under- or overwatering, and brown leaves from lack of light or humidity. Additionally, pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips may occasionally affect the plant, along with the risk of root rot.

Characteristic Details
Plant Type Perennial
Mature Size 3-5 ft. tall and wide
Sun Exposure Partial
Soil pH Acidic, neutral
Hardiness Zones 9-11 (USDA)
Native Area South America
Toxicity Toxic to humans, toxic to pets

Golden Goddess Philodendron

The golden goddess philodendron is also known as the philodendron malay gold or lemon-lime philodendron. It’s often mixed up with the heartleaf lemon-lime cultivar. This plant has a climbing habit and its neon green and yellow leaves brighten any room.

This philodendron can grow up to 6 feet tall as it matures. ‘Malay Gold’ and ‘Lemon Lime’ are special types of this philodendron. It loves warm, bright spots and does well in humid environments, but can handle home humidity levels too.

Watering should be based on the pot’s weight, not a set schedule. Fertilize every 4 to 6 weeks when it’s growing fast. But be careful not to overfertilize, as it can cause problems.

It needs well-draining, clean potting soil and should be repotted when it starts to grow aerial roots. A moss pole or trellis will help it climb once it’s ready.

Golden Goddess Philodendron

The golden goddess philodendron comes from Central, South America, and the Caribbean. It can grow outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 9b-11b. If it has yellow leaves, check for signs of stress, soil moisture, and environmental factors.

In summary, the golden goddess philodendron grows fast and is easy to care for. It thrives in many indoor settings. With the right care, it brings a tropical vibe to any room.

Conclusion

Philodendrons come in many stunning types for indoor gardeners. They range from trailing vines to compact, upright plants. These tropical beauties fit any indoor space with their variety of sizes, shapes, and colors.

They offer vibrant variegation, dramatic color changes, or lush, low-maintenance options. The philodendron genus has something for every plant lover. With proper care, these houseplants can thrive indoors and add a touch of the tropics to your home.

There are over 500 philodendron species to choose from. This means endless possibilities for plant lovers. From the classic heartleaf philodendron to the rare pink princess, these plants can enhance any indoor space.

By understanding each variety’s unique needs, you can pick the perfect plant for your home. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or new to the hobby, philodendrons offer a wide range of options.

Explore the many types, find your favorites, and enjoy the benefits they bring to your indoor space. With the right care and dedication, philodendrons can flourish and bring a piece of the outdoors into your home.

FAQ

What are Philodendrons?

Philodendrons are over 480 species of tropical plants. They belong to the family Araceae. These plants are known for their lush leaves in various shapes, sizes, and colors.

What are the key characteristics of Philodendrons?

Philodendrons have lush, diverse foliage. Their leaves can be heart-shaped or deeply lobed. They also show vibrant variegation, with leaves in shades of green, yellow, pink, and black.Moreover, they produce striking floral displays. Flowers emerge from a spathe and spadix.

What are some of the most popular Philodendron plant types?

Popular Philodendron types include the Heartleaf Philodendron and Brasil Philodendron. There’s also the Philodendron Micans and Lemon-Lime Philodendron. Other favorites are the Philodendron Birkin, Philodendron Erubescens, and Imperial Green Philodendron.Other notable types are the Philodendron Black Cardinal, Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’, and the Pink Princess Philodendron.

How do I care for a Heartleaf Philodendron?

The Heartleaf Philodendron loves bright, indirect light. Water it when the soil is dry. It’s easy to grow, making it great for both new and experienced gardeners.

What are the unique features of the Philodendron Micans?

The Philodendron micans has small, velvety dark green leaves. It has a trailing growth habit. It’s a cultivar of the Heartleaf Philodendron.

How do I care for the Philodendron Birkin?

The Philodendron Birkin needs a well-draining potting mix. Water it when the top inch of soil is dry. It requires bright indirect light to keep its variegation.

What are the key features of the Philodendron Erubescens?

The Philodendron erubescens is a robust climber. It has large, emerald-green leaves with red/pink undertones on the backs. Popular cultivars include the Pink Princess Philodendron, Philodendron ‘Imperial Green’, and Philodendron ‘Imperial Red’.

How do I care for the Pink Princess Philodendron?

The Pink Princess Philodendron needs high humidity and bright, indirect light. This helps maintain its stunning pink variegation.

What is the Tree Philodendron?

The Tree Philodendron, also known as Philodendron selloum, is a large-leafed variety. It has a self-heading growth habit. It develops a long, bare trunk with aerial roots.

How do I care for the Philodendron Xanadu?

The Philodendron Xanadu is a compact, bush-like plant. It prefers bright, indirect light and consistent watering to thrive.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top