The Ultimate Guide to Philodendrons: Varieties, Care, and What Makes Them Unique
What Are Philodendrons?
Philodendrons are a diverse group of tropical plants known for their lush foliage, fast growth, and easy care, making them some of the most popular houseplants worldwide. Native to Central and South America, these plants belong to the Araceae family and include over 450 species.
What Classifies a Plant as a Philodendron?
✔️ Belongs to the Philodendron genus, part of the Araceae family
✔️ Typically features heart-shaped or lobed leaves
✔️ Grows either as climbers (vining philodendrons) or self-heading (non-vining philodendrons)
✔️ Produces aerial roots to absorb moisture and nutrients in their native rainforest habitat
Popular Philodendron Varieties
Here are some of the most commonly searched and loved philodendron types, this is a small portion of the wide variety of philodendrons:
1. Philodendron Hederaceum (Heartleaf Philodendron)
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Description: Small, heart-shaped green leaves on trailing vines
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Why it's popular: Easy to care for and perfect for hanging baskets or shelves
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Light needs: Bright indirect light but tolerates low light
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Watering: When top inch of soil is dry
2. Philodendron Brasil
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Description: A cultivar of Heartleaf Philodendron with lime green and yellow variegation
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Why it's popular: Adds a pop of colour to indoor spaces
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Light needs: Bright indirect light enhances variegation
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Watering: When top inch of soil is dry
3. Philodendron Birkin
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Description: Unique white pinstripe variegation on dark green leaves
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Why it's popular: Rare, slow-growing statement plant
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Light needs: Bright indirect light
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Watering: Keep soil slightly moist, avoid letting it dry out completely
4. Philodendron Selloum (Philodendron Bipinnatifidum / Tree Philodendron)
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Description: Large, deeply lobed leaves on a self-heading plant
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Why it's popular: Dramatic tropical statement for floor pots
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Light needs: Bright indirect to moderate light
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Watering: Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry
5. Philodendron Micans
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Description: Velvet-textured leaves with deep green and bronze tones
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Why it's popular: Lush trailing plant with a unique velvety appearance
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Light needs: Bright indirect light
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Watering: Allow top inch of soil to dry out between waterings
6. Philodendron Pink Princess
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Description: Dark green leaves with stunning pink variegation
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Why it's popular: Highly sought-after collector’s plant
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Light needs: Bright indirect light to maintain pink variegation
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Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry
7. Philodendron Xanadu
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Description: Compact, self-heading plant with deeply lobed, glossy green leaves
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Why it's popular: Easy-care plant for floor pots and tabletops
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Light needs: Bright indirect to moderate light
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Watering: When top inch of soil feels dry
Philodendron Care Instructions
Light Requirements
Most philodendrons prefer bright indirect light. They can tolerate moderate to low light, but growth may slow, and variegation may fade in low light conditions.
Watering
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry
Avoid letting philodendrons sit in soggy soil to prevent root rot (use a moisture meter to help)
Reduce watering frequency in winter months
Humidity
Philodendrons prefer higher humidity levels (50–60%), but most varieties adapt well to average indoor humidity.
Soil
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as aroids mix or a combination of potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark to allow proper aeration.
Fertilizing
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce fertilizing in winter.
Repotting
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot to encourage healthy growth.
Philodendron vs Pothos – What’s the Difference?
Many plant lovers confuse Philodendrons and Pothos, but here’s how to tell them apart:
| Philodendron | Pothos |
|---|---|
| Softer, more flexible stems | Thicker, more rigid stems |
| Heart-shaped leaves with matte or velvety finish | Waxy, glossy leaves |
| New growth emerges from cataphylls (leaf sheaths) | New growth unfurls directly from the previous leaf |
| Often climbs using aerial roots and petiole sheaths | Climbs using aerial roots only |
Both are easy-care indoor plants ideal for beginners.
Philodendron Buy – Where to Find Yours
Looking to add a philodendron to your collection? Shop our wide range of philodendron plants online from Urbane Eight or visit us in-store to find your next favourite.
