Philodendrons are easily some of the most recognizable and popular plants for your home. This is most likely because of how easy they are to care for. Most philodendron types are low maintenance and require little attention. And, in return, they will produce a gorgeous display of delicate flowers and intricate leaves.
There are so many philodendron types in the one family though (over 480 types of philodendron plant). So, how do we choose the best ones as our indoor plant companions? In this article, we look at 5 Beautiful Philodendrons for Your Home. And we’ll detail easy steps for taking care of them, as well as some general information on these lovely plants.
What are Philodendrons?
Philodendrons are a genus of plants with large leaves and long roots. They belong to the class of plants called aroids and can thrive in both warm climates and outdoor environments. And of course, they are also suitable as a houseplant. This versatility makes them popular among beginners and experts alike.
Aside from their flexibility, philodendrons are also known to be excellent air pollutant filters. Their large leaves act as air purifiers that nullify pollutants and convert them into fresh, clean air. Furthermore, they’re robust plants that can grow up to three meters with the minimum requirements of indirect, bright light.
The 5 Beautiful Philodendron Types for Your Home
1. Philodendron Erubescens
This plant is native to Columbia and the rainforests of South America. It’s also known as the Blushing Philodendron, the Pink Princess Philodendron, and the Red Leaf Philodendron. It is an exotic-looking and beautiful type of philodendron and can climb up to 5 feet inside our homes.
It comes in shades of dark green or black with pink. Note that the sections of pink leaves lack chlorophyll, so it’s important to keep the right balance between the colors. You can do this by only exposing your plant to indirect light. When found in its natural environment, it has long leaves, with red or pink undercovers and highlights.
2. Philodendron Hederaceum
This is one of the most popular kinds of philodendron plants. It’s also known by the names Sweetheart, Heartleaf, and P. Scandens Philodendron. It hails from the Caribbean and Central America, where it can climb or trail up to four feet in height. The Philodendron Hederaceum is an easy-going plant and doesn’t require you to have a green thumb for it to flourish.
Because of this, it can be given as a gift to either beginner or expert indoor gardeners. As suggested by its name, this plant has a display of green and glossy heart-shaped leaves. The leaves are a stunning addition to any room. If your Heartleaf gets excessively long, snip the stem near a node (using sharp plant scissors) to promote new growth.
3. Philodendron Selloum
This philodendron is a tropical plant that doesn’t climb, so it’s grown as a floor plant in temperate climates. Native to South America, it is known by other names, such as split-leaf, Horsehead PhilidendronP, and Lacey Tree. Because it can grow up to five feet in width, you’ll need a spacious room to fully showcase its beauty.
Its leaves, on the other hand, are also quite large and dramatic with deep lobes. These leaves love light and turn to face their light source. So, it’s best to regularly rotate the plant away from direct sunlight. In this way, you can keep its position correct and give its foliage a balance in colors.
4. Philodendron Xanadu
The Philodendron Xanadu is native to Brazil and is also known as P. Winterbourne. The Xanadu is a compact yet large houseplant that can be even wider than it is tall. It forms a dense cluster of beautiful lobed leaves and can grow between 2 to 4 feet tall.
In the wild, they are known to reach a width of up to 4 to 6 feet, however, when grown as a houseplant, they may grow to be smaller. The Philodendron Xanadu is, without a doubt, a gorgeous plant. However, take care where you put it in your home, as it can be toxic to dogs and cats.
5. Philodendron Brasil
Another philodendron of the heartleaf variety, this plant has green, heart-shaped leaves. The leaves have a cream, white, or lime-colored section that runs down the center of the leaf. Native to the Caribbean and Central America, it is also known as P. Silver stripe and P. Cream splash.
In addition to its pretty leaves, its stems can also have a pink coloration, giving it more even beauty. While it does grow best in medium to bright lights, the Philodendron Brasil can survive in low-light growing conditions. However, the display and color may not be as vibrant in a low-light philodendron.
Plant Care Tips for All Philodendron Types
Caring for your philodendron is easy, as it can effortlessly adapt to indoor environments. Philodendrons typically grow well in a southeast or west window and can thrive during any time of the year. Their hardiness makes them perfect indoor plants. Below, is all you need to know to ensure your plant stays healthy, wherever it is in your home.
Sunlight Needs
As mentioned above, philodendrons thrive in bright to medium indirect sunlight. While this plant’s leaves will turn yellow naturally over time, if you ever notice that too many leaves are yellow at any one time, it could be an indication that your plant is overexposed to the sun. They can also tolerate low light. However, if its stems become leggy, with several inches between leaves, it’s best to move the plant somewhere brighter.
Water
These plants aren’t demanding when it comes to water, so avoid overwatering them. Too much water can cause root rot. Therefore, only water when the top of the soil feels dry. If its leaves are falling off and browning, this is a signal that it’s lacking in water. On the other hand, if your philodendron has droopy leaves, it may be getting too much or too little water. Either way, your plant should become healthy again once you address the issue.
Temperatures Philodendron Types Like
For your plant to grow healthy, keep it within its ideal temperatures during the day. Philodendrons prefer temperatures between 65° – 78° F (18° – 26° C) and 60°F (16° C) at night.
Toxicity
This plant shouldn’t be consumed by humans or animals, as many philodendron types are poisonous to dogs and cats. Before placing one of these in your home, make sure to do research first. That’s the best way to avoid potential accidents while you care for your beautiful plant.
Pests and Problems in Philodendron Types
While philodendrons aren’t prone to insects, you may encounter mealybugs and aphids. To get rid of them, simply use cotton balls infused with rubbing alcohol, and wipe them off. Another way to get rid of them is by showering your plant periodically with water and then applying insecticidal soap.
Philodendron Types for Your Home – The Wrap-up
So, that’s our list of the 5 Beautiful Philodendrons for Your Home, with tips and tricks included. Even if you don’t consider yourself to have a green thumb, this plant will readily adapt to its environment to make the job much easier for you. All it needs is light, warmth, and moisture for you to see success as an indoor gardener. And, in return for your efforts, philodendrons will give you fresh, clean air and provide your home with the natural beauty of a jungle.
