Philodendron Species & Care Guide — Trending Varieties Explained

Philodendron is a large genus in the Araceae family with over 500 species worldwide. While related to Monstera and Pothos, the Philodendron genus offers extraordinarily diverse leaf shapes and colors, with collector popularity surging in recent years. From beginner-friendly varieties to rare species, the appeal is wide-ranging. Here we introduce notable philodendron varieties and their care.

Beginner-Friendly Philodendrons

Start with easy-to-grow varieties.

Birkin (P. 'Birkin') A beautiful variety with cream pinstripes on dark green leaves. Self-supporting without stakes, growing compactly. Shade-tolerant and suited for indoor management. Though slow-growing, each new leaf displays different striping patterns, providing ongoing visual interest.

Brasil (P. hederaceum 'Brasil') A vining variety with heart-shaped leaves featuring lime green variegation. Extremely hardy, even growing in low light. Hanging displays showcase beautiful trailing vines, making it increasingly popular as a Pothos alternative.

Selloum (P. bipinnatifidum) A self-heading type characterized by large, deeply lobed leaves. Previously called "Philodendron selloum," it has been reclassified as Thaumatophyllum. Requires ample space as it grows large, but its presence is outstanding.

Collector Favorites

Varieties to tackle with growing experience.

Pink Princess (P. erubescens 'Pink Princess') A stunning variety with pink variegation on dark green leaves. Variegation patterns vary greatly between individuals, with beautifully variegated specimens commanding high prices. Sufficient light is important, as pink variegation diminishes in low-light conditions.

Gloriosum (P. gloriosum) Beautiful large heart-shaped leaves with velvety texture and white veining. Creeping growth habit with stems crawling along the ground suits elongated pots. Growth is slow, but the impact of unfurling large leaves is breathtaking.

Verrucosum (P. verrucosum) Velvety leaves with beautiful iridescence, and uniquely hairy stems. Requires high humidity and is sensitive to dry conditions, making terrarium cultivation suitable. Care is for advanced growers, but the beauty is worth seeing.

Basic Philodendron Care

While details vary by variety, common management points apply.

Light: Most philodendrons prefer bright indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which causes leaf burn. East or north-facing windowsills are suitable. Variegated varieties particularly need good light -- too dark and variegation may disappear.

Watering: Water when the top 2-3 cm of soil has dried. Philodendrons are safer kept slightly dry rather than overly wet. Always discard water that collects in saucers.

Temperature and Humidity: Maintain minimum temperatures above 15°C. Ideal humidity is 50-70%, though hardy varieties like Birkin and Brasil handle typical indoor humidity. Gloriosum and Verrucosum need higher humidity.

Soil: Well-draining soil is essential. Mix perlite and bark chips at 20-30% into standard houseplant soil for a philodendron-appropriate blend. These plants prefer light, airy soil that allows root breathing.

Propagation

Philodendrons are relatively easy to propagate.

Stem cuttings (vining types): Vining varieties like Brasil root simply by cutting a stem section with nodes and placing in water. Cut 2-3 node lengths, remove lower leaves, then place in water.

Air layering (self-heading types): For self-heading varieties like Birkin and Gloriosum, lay stems horizontally on moist sphagnum moss. New growth emerges from growing points in 2-4 weeks.

Division: Large established plants can be divided during repotting. Ensure each division has attached roots.

On BriChoku, you can purchase philodendrons from specialist breeders who have acclimated plants to Japanese conditions. Direct consultation on variety identification and care is available, letting you build your collection with confidence.