How to Grow Philodendron

A philodendron plant makes an easy-care, ‘green’ addition to your home or office space. The name ‘Philodendron’ comes from the Greek language – a combination of “love” (philo) and “tree” (dendron). Read on for more info and tips on how to grow philodendron.

How many types of philodendrons are available?

There are approximately 480 varieties of philodendron. Some grow long, meandering vines while others grow upright. Vining philodendrons often need support to grow on, whereas upright varieties are popular for their large, lobed leaves.

Vining philodendron plants are known for their heart-shaped foliage and long, trailing vines. Therefore, this type of philodendron needs a trellis or post on which to meader and grow. However, they look especially attractive when grown in a hanging basket.

Vining philodendron varieties include:

Brasil (Philodendron Hederaceum ‘Brasil’)

Brasil has brightly-colored leaves in shades of lemon and lime-green. The variegated foliage contrasts with variegated pink and green stems.

Green Heartleaf (Philodendron hederaceum)

Features heart-shaped, dark green leaves. Green Heartleaf can be grown as either a hanging plant or as a climber. It prefers high humidity and low light conditions.

Upright philodendrons

They usually have large, lobed leaves. The foliage can grow so large that it needs support. Upright varieties grow slower than their vining cousins. Non-climbing varieties include:

Xanadu (Philodendron bipinnatifidum)

Features large, split leaves with deep lobes. Xanadu’s are large when mature and grow slowly.

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

Features large, copper-orange leaves that mature to dark green.

Blushing Philodendron (Philodendron erubescens)

Get its name because of the reddish-purple color on the underside of the leaves. Blushing Philodendron leaves are shaped like an arrowhead.

How much light do philodendrons need?

Some varieties grow well in low light, such as a bathroom. Other varieties grow best in bright, indirect light. Most philodendrons grow best in bright, indirect light.

Keep philodendrons away from direct sunlight as the leaves may turn yellow. If the stems grow long and thin with space between the leaves, then your philodendron may need more light.

How often should I water philodendron?

Wait until the top 1-inch of soil is dry before watering. Water the plant deeply, giving it a good soak. Keep plant roots consistently moist but not soggy.

Do philodendrons require humidity?

Yes. Philodendrons are native to tropical regions and need humidity to grow their best. Mist the leaves or place the container on a humidity tray.

Philodendrons grow well in the usual indoor temperatures (temperature range – 65°F to 80°F (18°C – 27°C).

What kind of soil do I need to grow philodendron?

Choose a good quality potting mix that provides adequate drainage but still retains some moisture. Although, a potting mix blend consisting of potting soil, peat moss, and perlite is ideal.

How quickly do philodendron plants grow?

Most philodendrons are fast-growing plants and require regular feeding. Fertilize plants once a month in spring and summer and every two months in fall and winter.

How long do philodendron vines grow?

It depends on the variety. A healthy Heartleaf Philodendron can produce vines up to 10 feet in length. However, many owners train the vines to meander around a window or across a wall, adding an organic look to a room.

When is the best time to prune a philodendron?

If your philodendron has grown too large or the vines have grown too long for your space, then you can trim it. It’s best to prune philodendron in spring or fall. Although, any time is fine to remove any yellowed leaves you find.

How to Prune a Philodendron Plant   

What You’ll Need: small pruning shears, sharp scissors, or a sharp knife

1. Remove any stems that are old, too long, or leggy.
2. Prune any yellowed or dead foliage, cutting at the point where the stem meets the main stalk.
3. If the stem is attached below the soil, then cut it even with the soil level.

To trim a vining variety, pinch the tips of stems with your fingers. Pinch the plant just above a young leaf (leaf node) or just above a new stem to encourage neat, healthy growth.

Tip: Sterilize your pruning tool before you trim to prevent the spread of plant disease. To sterilize tools, wipe the surface with rubbing alcohol or dip it in a weak solution of bleach and water. Then, rinse the tool and wipe it dry before use.

Can I grow a philodendron from cuttings?

Yes! Here’s how –

1. Trim a few long cuttings from the plant. Prune stems just under a leaf node.
2. Place each cutting in a container filled with a mixture of compost and sand.
3. Thoroughly water cuttings.
4. Place a clear plastic sandwich bag over the top of the container and seal with a rubber band. This will hold moisture in, creating a mini greenhouse.
5. Place the container in a spot that receives bright, filtered light.
6. Remove the plastic bag every few days to let the cutting “air out” and to keep mold from forming.
7. Put the plastic bag back over the container to continue growth.
8. Roots should appear in 3 to 4 weeks. The cutting should still look green and starting to grow.
9. Remove the plastic bag and set the plant in a location that receives bright, indirect light.
10. Finally, fertilize newly-sprouted with a liquid fertilizer monthly.

What’s the difference between a philodendron and a pothos plant?

Is it a pothos or a vining philodendron? There are several differences between the two plants, including leaf shape, leaf texture, and growth habit.

While philodendrons have thin leaves with a smooth feel, pothos has thick, waxy leaves with a slightly bumpy texture.

Young leaves on a philodendron have a pink or brownish tint, eventually darkening to true green. New pothos leaves appear in a lighter green shade compared to mature foliage.

Pothos stems are thicker than philodendron stems and are similar in color to the foliage, while philodendron stems are usually greenish-brown. New pothos stems are an orange-brown shade.

Both philodendrons and pothos can tolerate low light, but pothos is better adaptable to low light locations.

Did you know? Philodendrons can be grown in a water-filled container. Check the water level often because philodendrons can be thirsty plants.