What Are the Different Types of Philodendron Plants? - Plant Care Guide

Bringing lush, tropical greenery into your home often leads to a delightful discovery: the vast and varied world of aroids. Among the most beloved and diverse genera in the plant kingdom are the Philodendron plants, celebrated for their striking foliage, adaptability, and relatively easy care. From their native rainforests of Central and South America, these plants have captivated enthusiasts with their incredible range of leaf shapes, sizes, and colors. Understanding the different types of Philodendron plants opens up a world of possibilities for enriching your indoor jungle with stunning botanical beauty.

What Defines a Philodendron Plant?

The genus Philodendron is one of the largest genera in the Araceae family (Aroids), encompassing hundreds of species. The name "Philodendron" comes from the Greek words "philo" (love) and "dendron" (tree), reflecting their common growth habit of climbing trees in their native habitats.

What are the Common Characteristics of Philodendrons?

While incredibly diverse, most Philodendron plants share several common characteristics that help define them:

1. Unique Foliage: This is their most striking feature. Philodendron leaves come in an astonishing array of shapes (heart-shaped, lobed, deeply cut, arrow-shaped), sizes (from tiny to enormous), and colors (various shades of green, red, pink, orange, copper, and variegated forms). Many species have glossy or velvety leaf textures.
2. Aerial Roots: Most Philodendrons produce aerial roots (roots that grow from the stem above ground). These roots help them cling to trees or other structures when climbing, and they also absorb moisture and nutrients from the air and environment. In a houseplant setting, these are a clear identifying feature.
3. Growth Habit: Philodendrons exhibit two primary growth habits:
   • Vining/Climbing: Many species are vining epiphytes or hemiepiphytes (starting on the ground and then climbing, or starting high on a tree and growing roots down). They produce long stems with nodes that root as they climb.
   • Upright/Self-Heading: Some species grow as bushy, non-climbing plants with a more compact, upright habit. These tend to have larger, more robust stems.
4. Toxicity: It's important to note that all Philodendron plants contain calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic if ingested by humans or pets. They can cause irritation of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract. Keep them out of reach of children and pets.
5. Relatively Easy Care: Generally, Philodendrons are considered relatively low-maintenance houseplants, tolerating a range of indoor conditions, though they thrive best in bright, indirect light, consistent moisture (but not soggy soil), and good humidity.

These shared traits make them identifiable as Philodendrons, despite their vast visual differences.

How Do Climbing vs. Non-Climbing Philodendrons Differ?

The distinction between climbing Philodendrons and non-climbing (self-heading) Philodendrons is fundamental to understanding their growth, care, and how they will fit into your space.

Climbing Philodendrons (Vining):

• Growth Habit: These plants produce long, flexible stems with nodes that are designed to climb. In their natural habitat, they use aerial roots to cling to trees.
• Leaf Size: Often, the leaves on climbing Philodendrons will get significantly larger as the plant matures and has something to climb on. This phenomenon is called ontogenetic heterophylly – the plant changes leaf form as it matures.
• Support Needs: In a home environment, they require a moss pole (like a Moss Pole for Climbing Plants), trellis, or other support structure to mimic their natural climbing habit. Without support, they will simply trail.
• Appearance: Tend to have smaller leaves when young or trailing, growing larger and sometimes more fenestrated (split) as they climb.
• Examples: Philodendron hederaceum (Heartleaf Philodendron), Philodendron gloriosum, Philodendron melanochrysum.

Non-Climbing (Self-Heading) Philodendrons:

• Growth Habit: These plants grow outwards from a central stem, forming a bushy, upright clump. They do not produce long, vining stems or climb.
• Leaf Size: Their leaves generally reach their mature size without needing a climbing support.
• Support Needs: They typically don't require external support, forming a stable, upright mound.
• Appearance: Often have larger, more dramatic leaves, and a thicker, more robust central stem.
• Examples: Philodendron selloum (now Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum), Philodendron xanadu (now Thaumatophyllum xanadu), Philodendron 'Prince of Orange', Philodendron 'Birkin'.

Understanding these growth habits helps you choose the right Philodendron plant for your space and provide the appropriate care.

What are the Popular Climbing Philodendron Types?

The climbing Philodendrons are incredibly versatile, perfect for hanging baskets or training up a moss pole, offering a classic tropical look.

1. Philodendron hederaceum (Heartleaf Philodendron)

The Heartleaf Philodendron, Philodendron hederaceum, is perhaps the most iconic and widely recognized Philodendron plant. It's often found in homes due to its easy care and attractive trailing vines.

• Leaves: As its name suggests, it has classic, glossy, heart-shaped leaves that are typically a vibrant medium green. The new leaves often emerge with a reddish or bronzy tint before maturing to green.
• Growth Habit: A vigorous vining plant. It can trail beautifully from hanging baskets (like a Mkono Macrame Plant Hanger) or climb readily with support. The leaves get larger if it climbs.
• Care: Very forgiving and tolerant of various conditions, making it an ideal choice for beginners. Prefers bright, indirect light but tolerates low light. Water when the top inch or two of soil is dry.
• Popular Cultivars:
  • 'Brasil': Features variegated leaves with splashes of lime green and yellow, resembling a paint stroke.
  • 'Lemon Lime': Bright, fluorescent lime-green foliage.
  • 'Micans': Has velvety, dark green leaves with reddish undersides, often appearing iridescent in light.
  • 'Cream Splash' / 'Gabby': Similar variegation to 'Brasil' but often with more creamy/white tones.

2. Philodendron 'Pink Princess'

The Philodendron 'Pink Princess' is a highly sought-after climbing Philodendron, famous for its stunning and unique variegated foliage.

• Leaves: Dark green, almost black leaves liberally splashed with bright, vibrant pink variegation. The amount and distribution of pink vary from leaf to leaf and plant to plant. The contrast between the dark green and bubblegum pink is what makes this plant so captivating.
• Growth Habit: A vining plant that will trail if unsupported but thrives and produces larger, more pronounced variegation when given a moss pole to climb.
• Care: Requires bright, indirect light to maintain its vibrant pink variegation. Too little light will result in less pink, while too much direct sun can scorch the delicate pink areas. Prefers consistently moist but not soggy soil and good humidity.
• Why it's Popular: Its stunning and rare coloration has made it a highly collectible houseplant, often commanding higher prices than other Philodendrons.

3. Philodendron gloriosum

The Philodendron gloriosum is a highly prized climbing Philodendron known for its large, velvety, heart-shaped leaves and prominent white veins. It's an under-crawler, meaning its rhizomatous stem grows along the ground rather than climbing vertically in a classic vining fashion.

• Leaves: Its defining feature. The leaves can grow very large (up to 2 feet or more indoors) and have a beautiful velvety texture. The striking white or pale green veins stand out dramatically against the deep green leaf blade. The shape is a classic cordate (heart-shaped).
• Growth Habit: It's a creeping or "crawler" Philodendron. Its rhizomatous stem grows horizontally along the soil surface, sending down roots and pushing up new leaves. While it doesn't "climb" in the traditional sense, it benefits from having its stem rest on a low moss or coco fiber plank rather than being buried deep in the soil.
• Care: Prefers very high humidity, bright, indirect light, and a loose, airy potting mix that drains very well but retains some moisture. Sensitive to overwatering and low humidity.
• Why it's Popular: Its luxurious velvety leaves and dramatic veining make it a highly desirable collector's plant.

4. Philodendron melanochrysum

The Philodendron melanochrysum is a stunning climbing Philodendron renowned for its elongated, heart-shaped, velvety dark green leaves that shimmer with iridescence.

• Leaves: Young leaves emerge with a reddish or bronzy tint and mature to a very dark, almost black-green. The surface has a distinctive, captivating velvety texture that gives it a subtle iridescent sheen when light catches it. The leaves are elongated and deeply heart-shaped.
• Growth Habit: A true climber. Its leaves will dramatically increase in size (often over 2 feet long) and develop a more defined shape as the plant climbs a moss pole or other support. It forms strong aerial roots that readily cling.
• Care: Requires high humidity to prevent leaf crisping and to encourage robust growth. Prefers bright, indirect light. Needs a well-draining, airy potting mix and consistent moisture. Sensitive to dry air.
• Why it's Popular: Its luxurious velvety texture and deep, shimmering green make it a favorite among aroid collectors.

5. Philodendron billietiae

The Philodendron billietiae is a distinctive climbing Philodendron celebrated for its long, strap-like, deep green leaves with vibrant orange petioles (leaf stems).

• Leaves: Elongated, somewhat paddle-shaped leaves that are a rich, dark green, often with a slightly corrugated texture. The most striking feature, however, are the bright, almost neon orange petioles that stand in stark contrast to the dark leaves.
• Growth Habit: A strong climber that will develop larger, more pronounced leaves and even deeper orange petioles as it matures and climbs a moss pole.
• Care: Prefers bright, indirect light and a chunky, well-draining potting mix. Benefits from good humidity but is somewhat more tolerant of average home humidity than some other rarer Philodendrons.
• Why it's Popular: The vibrant orange petioles provide a unique pop of color and architectural interest, making it a favorite for those seeking something distinct.

What are the Popular Non-Climbing (Self-Heading) Philodendron Types?

Non-climbing Philodendrons are prized for their bushy, upright growth habits and often large, dramatic leaves, making them excellent statement pieces. (Note: Many classic "self-heading" Philodendrons have recently been reclassified into the genus Thaumatophyllum, but are still widely sold and known as Philodendrons.)

1. Philodendron selloum (now Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum)

The Philodendron selloum, now officially known as Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, is a large, majestic non-climbing Philodendron (or former Philodendron) renowned for its deeply lobed, architectural leaves.

• Leaves: Large, glossy, deeply cut or "split" leaves with many prominent lobes, giving them a feathery, tropical appearance. The leaves can grow very large, creating a dramatic presence.
• Growth Habit: A self-heading plant that grows upright on a thick, woody stem. It eventually forms a substantial, bushy plant that can reach several feet tall and wide indoors.
• Care: Relatively easy to care for. Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light (though growth will be slower). Needs consistently moist soil but dislikes sitting in water. Benefits from good humidity.
• Why it's Popular: Its large, unique leaves create a strong tropical statement in any room. It's often used as a large floor plant due to its impressive size. You can find starter plants like a Philodendron Selloum Live Plant.

2. Philodendron xanadu (now Thaumatophyllum xanadu)

Similar to P. selloum, Philodendron xanadu, now Thaumatophyllum xanadu, is a compact, bushy, non-climbing Philodendron (former Philodendron) known for its deeply lobed, ruffled leaves.

• Leaves: Medium to large, glossy green leaves that are deeply dissected into many narrower lobes, giving them a dense, ruffled, and somewhat airy appearance. The overall shape is more compact and rounded than P. selloum.
• Growth Habit: A self-heading plant that forms a dense, bushy clump. It typically remains more compact than P. selloum, making it suitable for smaller spaces.
• Care: Easy to care for. Prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Tolerates average home humidity fairly well.
• Why it's Popular: Its lush, dense foliage and compact size make it an excellent choice for adding a tropical feel to medium-sized spaces.

3. Philodendron 'Prince of Orange'

The Philodendron 'Prince of Orange' is a vibrant, colorful non-climbing Philodendron known for its stunning, ever-changing leaf colors.

• Leaves: New leaves emerge a brilliant, almost neon orange, gradually transitioning through shades of copper, red, and yellow before maturing to a vibrant green. This constant color evolution on the plant makes it a truly dynamic and eye-catching specimen.
• Growth Habit: A self-heading, bushy plant that grows upright in a compact form, not requiring support.
• Care: Prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its vibrant orange and red coloration. Too little light will result in less vivid color. Needs well-draining soil and consistent moisture.
• Why it's Popular: Its incredible, ever-changing array of warm colors makes it a highly desirable and cheerful houseplant.

4. Philodendron 'Birkin'

The Philodendron 'Birkin' is a relatively newer and highly popular non-climbing Philodendron known for its striking cream or white pinstripe variegation on dark green leaves.

• Leaves: Oval to heart-shaped, dark green leaves with crisp, narrow, creamy white or light yellow pinstripes running parallel to the veins. The variegation can sometimes be faint or more pronounced.
• Growth Habit: A self-heading, bushy plant that grows upright and forms a compact, upright mound.
• Care: Prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its variegation. Too little light can cause the white stripes to fade, while too much direct sun can scorch the white areas. Needs consistently moist but not soggy soil and good humidity.
• Why it's Popular: Its elegant pinstripe variegation gives it a sophisticated and almost painted appearance, making it a stylish choice for indoor decor.

5. Philodendron squamiferum (Red Bristle Philodendron)

The Philodendron squamiferum is a unique climbing Philodendron, easily recognizable by its deeply lobed leaves and distinctive fuzzy, red petioles.

• Leaves: Deeply lobed, often with 5 distinct lobes, and a vibrant green color.
• Growth Habit: A vining plant that benefits from climbing support.
• Unique Feature: Its most striking feature is the bright red, hairy (or bristly) petioles. These fuzzy red stems provide incredible texture and color contrast, making it stand out among other Philodendrons. The hairs are soft to the touch.
• Care: Prefers bright, indirect light, high humidity, and a chunky, well-draining aroid mix. Like many climbers, its leaves will get larger with support.
• Why it's Popular: The red, fuzzy petioles make it a truly unique and sought-after Philodendron for collectors.

How Do You Care for Different Philodendron Types?

While there's immense diversity among Philodendron plants, their basic care requirements are quite similar, catering to their tropical origins. However, some types have specific needs, especially concerning light and humidity.

What are General Light Requirements?

Most Philodendron plants thrive in bright, indirect light. This mimics their natural environment in the understory of rainforests, where they receive filtered sunlight through the tree canopy.

• Ideal Placement: A few feet back from a sunny south- or west-facing window, or directly in an east-facing window.
• Signs of Too Little Light: Slow, leggy growth with widely spaced leaves, smaller leaves than usual, and a dull green color. Variegated types (like 'Pink Princess' or 'Birkin') will lose their vibrant coloration.
• Signs of Too Much Light/Direct Sun: Scorched or bleached spots on leaves, yellowing of leaves (sunburn), or a faded appearance.
• Adjustments: If your plant isn't getting enough light, move it closer to a window or consider a grow light (like an LED Grow Light for Indoor Plants). If it's getting too much direct sun, move it further away or use a sheer curtain to diffuse the light.

How Should You Water Philodendrons?

Proper watering is crucial for all Philodendron plants, as they are sensitive to both overwatering (leading to root rot) and underwatering (leading to dehydration). The key is to find a balance.

• Allow Soil to Dry Partially: Water thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches of soil (or more for larger pots) feels dry to the touch. Stick your finger into the soil to check.
• Drainage is Key: Always use a pot with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Never let a Philodendron sit in standing water.
• "Soak and Drain" Method: Water until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Discard any collected water in the saucer.
• Adjust Seasonally: Philodendrons generally need less water in winter when growth slows down and evaporation is lower.
• Signs of Overwatering: Yellowing, mushy leaves (especially at the base), soft stem, mushy or black roots, and a foul smell from the soil.
• Signs of Underwatering: Limp, curling, crispy, or shriveled leaves.

What Type of Soil and Humidity Do They Need?

• Well-Draining and Aerated: Philodendrons need a chunky, airy potting mix that drains well but still retains some moisture. A standard houseplant potting mix can be too dense.
• Ideal Mix: A good mix typically includes regular potting soil blended with materials like perlite (like Poon Garden Perlite), orchid bark (like rePotme Classic Orchid Bark), or coco coir (like GROW!T Coco Coir) to improve aeration and drainage.
• Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, to refresh the soil and provide room for growth.

Humidity:

• High Humidity is Preferred: Most Philodendrons, especially the velvety or more sensitive climbing types (like 'Gloriosum' or 'Melanochrysum'), thrive in high humidity, mimicking their rainforest origins.
• Signs of Low Humidity: Brown, crispy leaf edges or tips, especially on new growth.
• How to Boost Humidity:
  • Use a humidifier (like a LEVOIT Humidifier for Bedroom) near the plant.
  • Place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water (ensure the pot is not sitting in the water).
  • Group plants together to create a microclimate.
  • Misting can provide a temporary humidity boost but isn't a long-term solution.

How Do You Fertilize Philodendrons?

Fertilizing provides essential nutrients for healthy growth, especially since potted plants quickly deplete nutrients from their limited soil volume.

• Frequency: Fertilize Philodendrons during their active growing season (spring and summer), typically every 2-4 weeks. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows.
• Type of Fertilizer: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for houseplants (e.g., 20-20-20 or 10-10-10 NPK) diluted to half or quarter strength.
• Follow Directions: Always follow the product instructions carefully. Over-fertilizing can lead to nutrient burn, damaging the roots and leaves.
• Signs of Nutrient Deficiency: Slow growth, pale or yellowing leaves. A soil test can pinpoint specific deficiencies if needed.

By understanding the diverse world of Philodendron plants and providing tailored care, you can enjoy their magnificent foliage and create a vibrant, thriving indoor jungle.