by Evin Morrison, Extension Master Gardener
Houseplant collectors are often looking for something fun and different and that’s where philodendrons come in. Arguably one of the easiest-to-care-for houseplants, boasting hundreds of species, both naturally occurring and cultivated, no houseplant collection is complete without one (or a few) philodendrons. So maybe you want to add to your collection? Let’s take a closer look at some of the more unique species out there that you can find.
Photo © Evin Morrison
The Basics:
Philodendrons are relatively low-maintenance houseplants, and thanks to their variety, a great option for both beginners and experienced plant owners. They prefer bright, indirect light conditions, making them great for your brightly lit rooms. However, direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, so it’s best to keep them out of harsh sun. In lower-light areas, their growth might slow down, and the plant can become leggy as it tries to reach for the nearest light source. Variegated and colorful philodendrons have less chlorophyll in their leaves, so they need to be in more light than all-green varieties to thrive. On the flip side, those light-colored areas on the leaves are also more susceptible to burning in direct sun, so it’s important to find a good medium of enough light, but nothing that’s too harsh.
Photo © Evin Morrison
Photo © Evin Morrison
Water your philodendrons when the top inch or two of soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure not to overwater, as they are susceptible to root rot. In ideal conditions, philodendrons can grow quite large, so keep that in mind if you want to bring one home. Your smallish plant might not be so small at the end of the growing season! Luckily, they are very easy to propagate from cuttings, so if you need to keep the size in check don’t be afraid to chop and prop. However, before you take the scissors to your plants, remember that many philodendrons have juvenile leaves to start; then the plant can completely change in appearance when it’s large enough and the mature leaves start to emerge. The mature leaves are often the ones that make the plant “desirable”.
The Fuzzy Ones:
Philodendrons come in all shapes, sizes and colors, but some of them are also a little fuzzy. The Philodendron squamiferum has large leaves that emerge at the end of a red and green fuzzy stem. In the wild the “fuzz” helps protect the plant, but in our homes it’s just a conversation starter. Juvenile leaves are long and rounded with green stems that have very minimal fuzziness, but once the plant starts to mature you will end up with large, lobed leaves.
Photo © Evin Morrison
Photo © Evin Morrison
The Philodendron squamiferum isn’t the only fuzzy phil out there but is one of the more popular for people looking for this quirk. Philodendron verrucosum has fuzzy petioles and softer velvety leaves, so you get a bit of both. Philodendron micans, which is more of a trailing option, Philodendron melanochrysum and Philodendron gloriosum are also very well-known for their velvety leaves.
Photo © Evin Morrison
Photo © Evin Morrison
Photo © Evin Morrison
The Colorful Ones:
Variegated and colorful philodendrons really get collectors foaming at their mouths. Most variegation is white while some is different shades of green, but when you delve into the wonderful world of philodendrons you can find pinks, oranges, reds, and vibrant yellows as well.
The Philodendron ‘Ring of Fire’ just so happens to boast most of these colors all at once. The long, serrated leaves are covered in splotches and splashes of color. The juvenile leaves emerge with pink sheaths with a coppery tone that eventually matures into a deep green. This cultivated plant doesn’t appear in nature, but has become quite popular with houseplant enthusiasts because not only is every plant completely different, but every new leaf that emerges will shock you with its new design. If given a place to climb, ‘Ring of Fire’ can start to vine and grow upwards, but without the supports, it will stay lower to the ground and grow in more of a vase shape
Photo © Evin Morrison
Photo © Evin Morrison
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Looking to collect the rainbow? For a splash of pink try Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’. If you’re on the hunt for orange, Philodendron billietiae boast bright orange stems. More into the colorful foliage? Philodendron ‘McColley’s Finale’ or Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ are good options for bright orange leaves, but keep in mind that only the juvenile leaves will be colorful and then will green out as they age.
Photo © Evin Morrison
Photo © Evin Morrison
How about electric yellow? Philodendron warszewiczii is truly about as bright as you can get and for this one the color is here to stay. Looking for just a hint of color in your very green space? Philodendron subhastatum keeps its red undersides hidden unless you’re up close and personal taking a peek.
Convinced yet?
While collecting houseplants can be wildly fun and an adventure all on its own, sometimes you’re looking for a plant to fill a specific need in your home. Maybe you need a trailing plant to cascade over a bookshelf, or you want to add a splash of color. Without a doubt, there’s a philodendron out there that will fill that space, match your décor, and be a conversation starter among your plant friends next time they visit.