Types of Philodendrons: How to Care for the Tropical Plant

A philodendron is a tropical plant that belongs to the Araceae family; it’s native to warm climates, such as the rain forests of Central and South America. The leaf shape depends on the species, and foliage comes in various colors. Propagation is easy with stem cuttings.

Indoor philodendron plants rarely flower, but if they do, a spathe encloses the tiny white blossoms, and they transform into red or orange berry-like fruits. Philodendrons, sometimes confused with pothos plants, may be vining or non-vining. You can plant climbing plants in hanging baskets so the vines cascade down, and you can use a moss pole or trellis to support them. Non-climbers or self-heading plants grow broad and upright, similar to a shrub.

There are many philodendron types, including:

1. 1. Heartleaf philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum or Philodendron scandens): Named for its shiny, heart-shaped leaves, this vining species has glossy green leaves that are two to five inches in size. Common cultivars include Philodendron 'Brasil', which has lime green streaks on a dark green leaf; 'variegatum,' with variegated light green and cream colored leaves; and 'aureum,' which has bright yellow-green leaves.
2. 2. Velvet-leaf philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum, var. hederaceum): This variety of philodendron is a climbing plant with dark-green leaves and a velvety texture that mature into a greenish-bronze color with a reddish-brown underside.
   
3. 3. Red-leaf philodendron (Philodendron erubescens): Also known as ‘Pink Princess,’ this vining plant has reddish-purple leaf stems and triangular green foliage. New leaves are pink-tinged, maturing into green leaves with a reddish underside.
4. 4. Fiddleleaf philodendron (Philodendron bipennifolium): This mid-sized vining philodendron has shiny, leathery leaves. The foliage is typically bright or olive green, though some varieties have gray-blue leaves.
5. 5. Spade-leaf philodendron (Philodendron domesticum): This trailing philodendron has large leaves that look like spades or elongated hearts. The leaves are green or variegated and can grow up to a foot long indoors.
6. 6. Silver sword philodendron (Philodendron hastatum): Native to Brazil, this climbing variety has striking blue-gray or silver-green leaves that are smooth and elongated. You may be able to find this plant through speciality growers.
7. 7. 'Moonlight': A hybrid of the vining heartleaf species, this cultivar grows upright. The philodendron ‘Moonlight’ has bright, vibrant green leaves.
8. 8. 'Prince of Orange': This self-heading, hybrid cultivar features elongated oval leaves that are copper-orange, maturing into a green color.
9. 9. Tree philodendron (Philodendron bipinnatifidum or Philodendron selloum): This upright species is best suited for commercial spaces because of its size. It grows twelve to fifteen feet in height and has lobed leaves with a tooth-like appearance.
10. 10. 'Xanadu': Philodendron ‘Xanadu’ is hybrid of the tree philodendron, this non-climbing cultivar is suitable for indoor gardening, reaching up to three feet in height.

Philodendrons are hardy and forgiving, but optimal conditions help them to thrive.

• Keep the right temperature. Philodendrons prefer warm temperatures ranging from 65–85 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep them away from heaters, air conditioners, and drafts.
  
• Use indirect light. Place philodendrons in indirect, but bright light. Direct sunlight can cause the leaves to yellow. This plant is highly adaptable and tolerates artificial indoor light, making it a popular choice for business and commercial settings. It grows more slowly in low-light conditions.
• Water your plant regularly. Water your philodendron every five to seven days or when the top quarter of soil in the pot feels dry. Keep the soil moist but not wet, and use a loose, well-draining potting mix that prevents the roots from getting waterlogged. Drain excess water that runs off into the saucer as soon as possible. While philodendrons are low-maintenance plants, you should water it regularly.
• Raise the humidity. As a tropical plant, philodendrons thrive when it's humid. Use a pebble tray or mist the leaves for larger leaf growth.
  
• Feed regularly. Philodendrons benefit from regular feedings. Use a houseplant fertilizer that dissolves in water. Mix it at half-strength and apply it twice as often or use a time-release fertilizer. Apply fertilizer when the soil is moist.

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