Philodendron plants have become popular indoor greenery for many homeowners. With over 450 varieties to choose from, there is a philodendron suited for any indoor space. Their attractive leaves and low maintenance needs make them appealing options. These plants are known for their easygoing nature—they don’t require much fuss to stay looking their best.
This guide will introduce readers to different philodendron types and provide care tips shared by experienced plant parents. Learning about each variety’s traits can help one select ones fitting their home and lifestyle. Whether a good place for children or pets is needed, or low light rooms must be dressed up, philodendrons may have just the solution. Keep reading to find guidance on selecting and keeping philodendrons happy and healthy for years of enjoyment.
Key Takeaway
- Philodendrons come in two main types – climbing and upright.
- They thrive in bright, indirect light and prefer their soil to dry out between waterings.
- Many varieties are low-maintenance, making them suitable for beginners.
Types of Philodendron House Plants
Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
The heartleaf philodendron is a favorite among plant parents because of its cute heart shaped leaves. These leaves are dark green and small, perfect for hanging baskets or in living rooms. This climber grows well in different light areas in homes, from bright to not as bright light. With the right care, its vines can grow several feet long [1].
This plant is good at cleaning indoor air with photosynthesis, which is helpful for people’s health. It does well when the soil dries out before watering again. Cutting back long vines keeps it bushy and helps it grow more. It forgives you if you forget to water sometimes. Overall, this is a good first plant even for busy people. With a little care, this philodendron can be your plant friend for a long time.
Split-Leaf Philodendron (Philodendron bipinnatifidum)
Also called the monstera-like plant, the split-leaf philodendron gets really tall, up to 10 feet, in warm areas. Its big leaves have cool cuts in them so they look unique. This plant grows upright instead of hanging, so it takes up more floor space when it’s full grown. It likes bright light that’s not direct and needs lots of water, especially in summer.
The split-leaf philodendron is perfect if you want a plant that really stands out. Its height and cool leaves make it the center of attention in a room. It also helps clean indoor air by filtering out toxins, so it’s a healthy choice.
Growing this plant requires some work. It needs a sturdy pot because it gets so tall. Watering regularly is important, more so during the warmer months when it’s growing. But be careful not to water too much – that can make the roots soggy and gross.
Philodendron Brasil
The philodendron brasil is known for its cool green and yellow patterned leaves. It’s easy to care for, making it great for beginners. This plant does well in different light but likes bright light that’s not direct best. Regular water keeps the roots healthy and it can grow up to 3 feet tall.
The philodendron brasil’s bright colors make it a happy addition to any indoor garden. It adds fun colors without needing hard care. This plant is also tough, so it’s a good choice for people new to growing plants at home.
To keep the brasil healthy, check the soil moisture regularly. Water when the top inch is dry so the roots don’t sit in soaked soil for too long. Fertilizer every few months helps the leaves stay vibrant and the plant grow well.
Philodendron Gloriosum
The philodendron gloriosum has big, pretty heart-shaped leaves with cool veins. It thrives best in humidity and light that’s not direct. Use a soil that drains water well while still holding moisture. With the right care these plants can get really big in homes.
Many plant parents love the gloriosum for how dramatic it looks. The huge leaves make wherever you put it feel tropical. It’s also not too hard to care for since the plant will let you know when it’s thirsty.
Keeping humidity around it is important. Put pebbles and water under the pot to boost moisture levels. Water regularly making sure the soil isn’t soggy. This balance helps the leaves stay beautiful and the plant healthy. With some attention, the gloriosum can impress anyone with its cool leaves!
Philodendron Lacerum
The philodendron lacerum is known for its deeply cut leaves. It can grow really tall, so often needs help standing up from the weight of the leaves. This plant likes bright light that’s not direct. Water when the top of the soil feels dry. In nature, it gets up to 70 feet, but indoors it still gets big [2].
This variety is great for those wanting an unusual plant. The cut leaves add interesting texture. Its growing style works well in larger rooms with space.
Caring for the lacerum involves giving it support. Use a moss pole or trellis for it to climb. Check the soil moisture regularly too. Make sure the plant pot has holes on the bottom so water can drain well and the roots don’t get soggy.
Philodendron Micans
The philodendron micans has unique velvety leaves that look really cool. They are deep green and it grows by hanging down, so it’s great for hanging baskets or trailing along shelves. This plant likes bright light that’s not direct and dry soil between waterings. It grows quickly in homes.
This philodendron adds soft texture to any plant collection. The leaves catch the light beautifully. Micans is also not too hard to get more of because you can grow new plants easily from cuttings.
To care for it, keeping humidity levels up helps the leaves stay lush. Pruning some vines encourages bushier growth. Like other philodendrons, let the soil dry out before watering again. This balanced care helps the micans thrive indoors.
Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’
The pink princess philodendron is very pretty with its pink and green leaves. This plant draws attention in any room because of its unique look. It likes plenty of bright light that’s not direct. Water regularly but check the soil so you don’t overdo it – too much can create problems for the roots.
People seek out this variety for its unusual coloring. Each leaf has different amounts of pink, making no two exactly alike. Plantkeepers enjoy caring for it because it can be particular about its environment.
To care for the pink princess, it needs lots of bright light for the colors to really pop. Making sure the soil dries before watering again prevents root issues. Using a soil that drains well also supports healthy growth. With some care and attention, you can have this striking plant as a decoration for many years.
Philodendron ‘White Wizard’
The white wizard philodendron has cool white lines on its dark green leaves. It grows slowly and needs bright light that’s not direct. This plant likes moist soil but can get sick if you water too much. Checking the soil regularly helps keep the white wizard healthy.
People love this plant because of its unique looks. The white veins popping against the dark leaves make it stand out from other plants. The white wizard could make others want to learn more about plants too.
To keep it thriving, giving it the right light is important. Make sure water can drain well from the pot too. Checking the soil moisture stops overwatering. Fertilizer in warmer months also helps the plant grow nicely. With the right care, this beautiful plant can last a long time.
Philodendron ‘Thai Sunrise’
The thai sunrise philodendron has interesting leaves that change colors as they grow. New leaves start bright green then get darker. It likes lots of bright light that’s not direct and consistent moisture. This plant makes any indoor garden more colorful.
People favor this plant for its changing leaf color over time. Watching the colors develop and shift can make plant care more exciting. The thai sunrise also adjusts well to different home conditions, making it a versatile choice.
Proper care of the thai sunrise involves proper light. Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Using soil with drainage prevents root problems. Checking on the plant now and then helps it stay happy. With some attention, this colorful plant is sure to brighten up any space.
Philodendron ‘Burle Marx’
The burle marx philodendron has unique lobed leaves that add interesting texture. It grows well in bright light that’s not direct, and also does okay with a bit less light. Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. This plant can reach 3 feet tall.
Plant lovers like the burle marx for its distinct leaf shape and pattern. The lobed leaves give it a fun look, making it a pleasant addition. This plant also adapts to different indoor setups well.
To care for it, provide enough light indoors without sun exposure. Water more in warmer months when it’s actively growing. Check the soil moisture to avoid overwatering, which can harm the roots. With regular care, the burle marx’s cool leaves will brighten up any space for years.
Philodendron ‘Dark Lord’
The dark lord philodendron has cool dark green to black colored leaves, making it a striking choice. It likes lots of bright light that’s not direct and keeps its soil moist. With good care, this plant can grow very tall.
This philodendron stands out for its dramatic dark leaves that make a bold statement wherever you put it. The dark lord is also not too difficult to care for, making it suitable whether you’re new or experienced with plants.
Taking care of the dark lord involves keeping up with light and moisture needs. Check the soil regularly so it doesn’t dry out fully. Using soil with drainage keeps the roots healthy too. Fertilizer especially in warmer months promotes nice growth. This unique plant is sure to liven up any space given the right conditions.
Care Tips for Philodendrons
Here are some helpful tips for caring for philodendron plants:
Light – Most kinds do well in bright light that’s not direct from windows. This helps them grow nice and green.
Water – Let the soil dry out a bit between waterings. Check the soil before adding more – if the top inch is dry, it’s time to refill.
Humidity – Philodendrons enjoy moisture in the air. You can use a pebble tray under the plant or a humidifier to keep humidity levels up.
Soil – The soil needs good drainage so it doesn’t stay soggy. Choosing a soil with holes on the bottom helps prevent root problems.
Support – For vines that climb, give them something like a moss pole to grow on. This encourages the plant to get taller.
Philodendrons are known for cleaning indoor air too. With some simple care, they reward you with healthy growth for many years. Keeping plants happy is also nice for your home.
FAQ
How tall can climbing plant varieties like philodendron florida ghost and florida green grow when grown indoors?
When grown indoors, climbing philodendron varieties can reach impressive heights of 6-8 feet high. With proper support and care, species like florida ghost and florida green can thrive indoors, creating a tropical feel in your space. Their aerial roots help them climb naturally.
Which philodendron varieties offer striking colors beyond green foliage, like white knight and ring of fire?
Several philodendrons bring stunning colors to your home. The white knight shows off creamy white and green variegation, while ring of fire features bright red and lime green leaves as they emerge. Other eye-catching varieties include black cardinal with its dark foliage and red congo with deep burgundy leaf stems.
What are some popular large dark philodendron varieties like black gold and imperial green that create a dramatic tropical feel?
For dramatic impact, try growing black gold or imperial green philodendrons. These fast growing varieties feature large green, glossy green leaves that can reach several feet in length. The hope selloum, with its impressive elephant ear shaped foliage, is another stunning option for creating bold tropical vibes.
How do you grow and care for delicate varieties like silver sword and lacy tree philodendron?
These elegant plants need high humidity and moist well-draining soil. The silver sword shows off light green to silver leaf surfaces, while the lacy tree has intricate foliage. Both thrive indoors with proper care. Keep them in low light to moderate light areas and maintain warmth for best results.
What are some easy-care philodendron varieties from South America like green princess and green congo?
Native to South American rainforests, these sturdy indoor plants are ideal for beginners. The green princess and green congo feature emerald green leaves and are fast growing. They adapt well to indoor conditions and can be easily propagated through stem cuttings. You can find them at most garden center locations.
How big do statement philodendrons like bright red rojo congo and silver leaf varieties get?
These showstopping plants can spread 3-4 feet wide with leaves growing ten inches or longer. The rojo congo develops bright red new growth, while silver leaf varieties add elegant shimmer. As the plant matures, it creates an impressive display perfect for larger spaces.
What’s the best way to care for rare varieties like lemon lime and red bristle philodendrons?
These unique varieties need similar care to common philodendrons but require extra attention to humidity. Lemon lime types show off bright yellow to lime green leaves, while red bristle varieties feature distinctive coloring. Many rare varieties are now available through specialty growers like costa farms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, philodendrons are favored houseplants for good reasons. Their range of types like climbers or upright plants have something to suit any space. Easy to care for, philodendrons offer gorgeous leaves that brighten up indoor areas. Whether a beginner or more experienced, philodendrons thrive with just the right light, watering, and soil care. Their natural beauty and low demands help explain their popularity over many years.
References
- https://www.thespruce.com/types-of-philodendron-5224436
- https://www.gardeningchannel.com/philodendron-varieties-to-consider/
Related Articles
- https://knowngarden.com/full-grown-pink-princess-philodendron/
- https://knowngarden.com/brasil-philo/
- https://knowngarden.com/upright-philodendron/