Where to Plant Philodendron
Philodendrons prefer indirect light, which is readily available in most homes. Position them near a window but shield them from direct sunlight.
Varieties with variegated leaves can tolerate slightly more indirect light than all-green types. If the leaves begin to turn yellow, it may be a sign that the plant is receiving too much sunlight.
Before acquiring a new plant, make sure your environment meets its needs. Not every plant will do well in every location.
Philodendron Care Tips
Philodendrons are among the easiest houseplants to care for. They can thrive in low-light conditions and moderately dry soil.
They are suitable for hanging planters or for decorating the tops of shelves. Because philodendrons are toxic, keep them where children and pets cannot easily access them.
Light
Philodendrons originate from tropical rainforests, where they naturally climb trees beneath dappled sunlight. At home, they grow best in indirect or filtered light.
Upright types can tolerate brighter light but still prefer partial shade. Colorful varieties need sufficient light to maintain their vibrant colors, as their foliage can become dull when kept in excessive shade.
Soil and Water
Use a well-draining potting mix to prevent waterlogging. Philodendrons prefer evenly moist soil without being overly wet.
Upright varieties can tolerate short dry periods but generally perform best with consistent moisture. Use a pot with drainage holes to maintain proper soil conditions.
Fertilizer
Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the active growing season, particularly in spring and summer. Liquid fertilizer or slow-release pellets can be used.
During fall and winter, reduce feeding to once every two months.
Potting and Repotting Philodendron
Refresh the soil approximately every two years to help prevent salt buildup, which can cause browning or yellowing at the leaf tips and edges.
To flush accumulated salts from the soil, run water through the potting mix until it drains clearly from the bottom.
Regular repotting helps keep the plant healthy and growing well.
Pests and Problems
Philodendrons are generally resistant to pests indoors but can sometimes attract aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites.
These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the product directions.
Vining philodendrons can become long and leggy as they grow. They tolerate pruning well, so excessive growth can be cut back. Pruning encourages new shoots to develop from the cut area.
How to Propagate Philodendron
Climbing philodendrons are easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Their nodes contain preformed roots, allowing new growth to develop quickly.
- Cut a 5-inch section of stem containing at least one leaf and one node.
- Place the cutting in water, making sure the node is submerged.
- Allow roots to develop before transferring the cutting to soil.
Alternatively, the cutting can be planted directly in potting soil. Dip the bottom end containing the node in rooting hormone and place it in a pot with drainage holes.
Keep the soil evenly moist. New roots and leaves should develop within a few weeks.
Types of Philodendron
'Brasil' Philodendron
Philodendron 'Brasil' is a hybrid that resembles a combination of heartleaf philodendron and pothos. Its leaves feature a variable broad central band of chartreuse.
Elephant Ear Philodendron
Philodendron domesticum has glossy green, spade-shaped leaves that can grow up to 2 feet long. It is also known as spade leaf philodendron (Philodendron hastatum).
Fiddle-Leaf Philodendron
Philodendron bipennifolium has violin-shaped leaves that can reach up to 10 inches long. It is a climbing vine that can grow up a support pole.
Heartleaf Philodendron
Philodendron hederaceum oxycardium is a durable vining houseplant with slender stems and heart-shaped leaves.
It grows well in hanging baskets, can be trained to a moss pole, or can be allowed to drape over the edge of a shelf.
Red-Leaf Philodendron
Philodendron erubescens has reddish-purple stems and large coppery-red leaves.
Split-Leaf Philodendron
Philodendron bipinnatifidum, also called lacy tree philodendron, has large, deeply lobed leaves that grow from a central stem.
It can spread up to 6 feet wide and reach about 8 feet tall.
Tree Philodendron
Philodendron bipinnatifidum is also known as split-leaf philodendron. This tropical plant has a semi-upright growth habit and can reach approximately 10 feet tall and wide in warm regions.
When grown as a houseplant, it provides glossy foliage and a strong vertical form.
Velvet-Leaf Philodendron
Philodendron hederaceum hederaceum resembles the heartleaf philodendron, but its leaves are covered with fine, velvety hairs. New growth is bronze in color.
'Xanadu' Philodendron
Philodendron 'Xanadu' is a hybrid that grows about 3 feet tall and wide. It prefers bright light and does not form aerial roots like some other philodendrons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do philodendrons like to be root-bound?
Philodendrons tolerate being root-bound better than many plants, but it is not their preference. Regular repotting as the plant grows helps maintain healthy growth.
Do philodendrons clean the air?
Philodendrons can filter toxins such as formaldehyde. However, the practical impact of using houseplants for air purification is uncertain, so they are best enjoyed primarily for their attractive foliage.
