Exploring Philodendron Varieties: 57 Stunning Types for Your Home

Philodendrons are among the most beloved houseplants worldwide, cherished for their stunning foliage and relatively easy care requirements. With hundreds of varieties available, choosing the perfect philodendron can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re looking for a rare collector’s item or a low-maintenance starter plant, there’s a philodendron variety that’s perfect for your space. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 57 different types of philodendrons that will elevate your indoor or outdoor garden.

Many philodendrons make excellent indoor plants due to their lush foliage and adaptability to various light conditions. From climbing vines to upright statement plants, these tropical beauties offer endless possibilities for home decoration. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of philodendron varieties!

Climbing Philodendron Varieties

Climbing philodendrons use aerial roots to attach themselves to surfaces, making them perfect for trellises, moss poles, or hanging baskets. These varieties can transform any space with their trailing vines and beautiful foliage.

Atabapoense

The Philodendron Atabapoense is a stunning climbing variety native to Venezuela and Brazil’s Amazonian region. This vining plant requires minimal maintenance but benefits from vertical support during active growth periods to reach its optimal height. The distinguishing feature of this philodendron is its gorgeous, elongated leaves with distinctive red undersides.

For best results, plant Atabapoense in moist, well-drained soil and avoid standing water. It thrives in bright, indirect light, as direct sunlight can damage its colorful leaves. This variety is somewhat tolerant of neglect, making it an excellent choice for busy plant parents or office environments.

In USDA climate zones 9 through 12, Atabapoense can be grown outdoors year-round. However, if temperatures approach freezing, it’s best to keep this tropical beauty in a container that can be moved indoors during cold snaps.

Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)

Perhaps the most recognizable and widely available philodendron, the Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) features charming heart-shaped leaves on trailing vines. This classic houseplant is perfect for beginners due to its forgiving nature and adaptability to various indoor conditions.

Native to the Caribbean and Central America, this evergreen climbing vine thrives in warm, humid environments. It can be grown as a trailing plant in hanging baskets or trained to climb up supports like moss poles or trellises.

The heart-shaped leaves vary in size and color depending on the specific variety, ranging from deep green to bronze or variegated patterns. As a fast-growing houseplant, Heartleaf Philodendron uses aerial roots to attach to surfaces, making it an excellent choice for vertical gardening.

Like other philodendrons, this variety contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation if ingested. Keep it away from children and pets to avoid any potential issues.

Brasil Philodendron

A popular variation of the Heartleaf Philodendron, the Brasil Philodendron features striking variegated foliage with lime-green streaks running through the center of each leaf. This eye-catching variety maintains the same easy-care requirements as the standard Heartleaf while adding a pop of color to your plant collection.

Brasil Philodendron grows best in bright, indirect light, which helps maintain its vibrant variegation. Too little light will cause the leaves to revert to solid green, while too much direct sunlight can scorch the delicate foliage.

This variety makes an excellent hanging plant or can be trained to climb a support. Its trailing vines can reach several feet in length when properly cared for, creating a dramatic cascading effect in any room.

Self-Heading Philodendron Varieties

Unlike their climbing cousins, self-heading philodendrons grow upright without the need for support. These varieties make excellent statement plants and often feature larger, more dramatic foliage.

Philodendron Birkin

The Philodendron Birkin is a relatively new and highly sought-after hybrid known for its glossy, dark green leaves with striking white pinstripe variegation. This compact, self-heading philodendron grows in an upright fashion, making it perfect for tabletops and shelves.

Birkin’s variegation becomes more pronounced with age, with new leaves often emerging with a reddish tint before developing their characteristic white striping. The plant’s compact growth habit means it won’t take up too much space, typically reaching about 2-3 feet in height at maturity.

This variety prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its variegation and requires moderate watering. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Birkin appreciates higher humidity levels but can adapt to average household conditions.

Philodendron Pink Princess

The Philodendron Pink Princess has achieved celebrity status in the plant world due to its stunning dark green leaves splashed with vibrant pink variegation. This rare philodendron variety commands high prices and is a prized addition to any serious plant collector’s home.

As a self-heading philodendron, Pink Princess grows upright and can reach 2-4 feet tall with proper care. The pink coloration is the result of a genetic mutation that reduces chlorophyll in certain leaf areas, creating the coveted pink patches.

This variety requires bright, indirect light to maintain its variegation but should be kept out of direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn. The soil should be allowed to dry slightly between waterings, and higher humidity levels will help this tropical beauty thrive.

Due to its rarity and the unpredictable nature of its variegation, genuine Pink Princess specimens can be expensive and difficult to find. Be wary of scams and always purchase from reputable sellers.

Philodendron Gloriosum

The Philodendron Gloriosum is renowned for its massive, velvety heart-shaped leaves with prominent white veins. Unlike many philodendrons that grow upward or trail, this terrestrial philodendron grows horizontally along the ground via a creeping rhizome.

Native to Colombia, Gloriosum is considered a collector’s item due to its stunning foliage and unique growth habit. The leaves can grow up to 2 feet in length when given optimal conditions, creating a truly spectacular display.

This variety prefers bright, indirect light and high humidity levels. It grows best in a wide, shallow container that accommodates its horizontal rhizome. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not soggy, and regular fertilization during the growing season will help produce those magnificent leaves.

Rare Philodendron Varieties

For serious collectors, these rare philodendron varieties offer unique features and exclusive bragging rights. These specimens are often more challenging to find and may require special care to thrive.

Philodendron Spiritus Sancti

Often considered the holy grail of philodendrons, the Philodendron Spiritus Sancti is one of the rarest and most expensive varieties in the world. Native to a small region in Brazil, this endangered species is characterized by its long, narrow leaves that can reach up to 3 feet in length.

Due to habitat destruction and over-collection, genuine Spiritus Sancti specimens are extremely rare in cultivation. Those lucky enough to own one should provide bright, indirect light, high humidity, and consistently moist (but not wet) soil.

This climbing philodendron benefits from a support structure like a moss pole to reach its full potential. With proper care, it can become a stunning centerpiece in any serious plant collector’s home.

Philodendron Jose Buono

The Philodendron Jose Buono features large, glossy leaves with stunning cream and green variegation. This rare aroid can grow quite large, with leaves potentially reaching over 2 feet in length when mature.

As a climbing philodendron, Jose Buono benefits from a support structure to reach its full potential. The variegation pattern is unique to each plant, with some specimens displaying more dramatic cream coloration than others.

This variety requires bright, indirect light to maintain its variegation and prefers consistently moist soil. Higher humidity levels will help prevent brown leaf edges and promote healthier growth.

Best Soil for Philodendrons

Proper soil is crucial for philodendron health, regardless of which variety you choose. These tropical plants require well-draining, aerated soil that retains some moisture without becoming waterlogged.

An ideal philodendron soil mix should include:

• High-quality potting soil as a base
• Perlite or pumice for improved drainage
• Orchid bark for aeration
• Coco coir or peat moss for moisture retention
• A small amount of horticultural charcoal to prevent soil compaction

For those who prefer convenience, commercial philodendron soil mixes are readily available. When selecting a pre-made mix, look for options that specify good drainage, aeration, and a slightly acidic to neutral pH level.

Regardless of which soil you choose, it’s important to repot your philodendron every 1-2 years. This practice refreshes the soil, provides new nutrients, and gives you an opportunity to check root health and upgrade to a larger container if necessary.

General Philodendron Care Tips

While specific care requirements may vary between varieties, most philodendrons share some common needs:

Light Requirements

Most philodendrons prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, while too little light can result in leggy growth and diminished variegation. East or west-facing windows often provide ideal lighting conditions for these tropical beauties.

Watering Needs

Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Philodendrons generally prefer consistent moisture but are susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Adjust your watering schedule seasonally, reducing frequency during winter months when growth slows.

Humidity Preferences

As tropical plants, philodendrons appreciate higher humidity levels than found in most homes. Consider using a humidifier, grouping plants together, or placing your philodendron on a pebble tray filled with water to increase ambient moisture.

Temperature Range

Philodendrons thrive in temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C). Protect them from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, which can cause stress and leaf drop.

Fertilization Schedule

During the growing season (spring through fall), feed your philodendron monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength. Reduce or eliminate fertilization during winter months when growth naturally slows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are philodendrons toxic to pets?

Yes, all philodendron varieties contain calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic to both pets and humans if ingested. Symptoms may include oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep these plants out of reach of curious pets and children.

How often should I repot my philodendron?

Most philodendrons benefit from repotting every 1-2 years, ideally in spring at the beginning of the growing season. Choose a container 1-2 inches larger than the current pot and use fresh soil to provide new nutrients.

Why are the leaves on my philodendron turning yellow?

Yellowing leaves can indicate several issues, including overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or insufficient light. Check the soil moisture first, then evaluate light conditions and consider when you last fertilized your plant.

How do I propagate philodendrons?

Most philodendrons can be propagated through stem cuttings. For climbing varieties, take a cutting with at least one node and root it in water or moist soil. Self-heading philodendrons are typically propagated through division during repotting.

Why isn’t my variegated philodendron showing variegation on new leaves?

Loss of variegation often indicates insufficient light. Variegated plants need more light than their solid-green counterparts to maintain their distinctive coloration. Move your plant to a brighter location (still avoiding direct sunlight) to encourage more pronounced variegation on new growth.

With their diverse forms, stunning foliage patterns, and relatively forgiving nature, philodendrons remain some of the most rewarding houseplants to collect and grow. Whether you’re drawn to the classic heart-shaped leaves of the common varieties or the rare, collector’s specimens with their unique characteristics, there’s a philodendron that’s perfect for your home and gardening experience level.

Author

Shinta

 

Shinta is a biotechnologist turned writer. She holds a master's degree in Biotechnology from Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences and a PG Diploma in cellular and molecular diagnostics from Manipal University. Shinta realised her love for content while working as an editor for a scientific journal.

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