How to Grow Philodendron

Philodendron

Philodendron spp.

flower

Philodendrons are tropical climbing or trailing vines with distinctive heart-shaped leaves and an easy-going nature that makes them ideal houseplants. They thrive in moderate indoor conditions and can be grown as ground covers, climbers, or in hanging baskets. Most varieties are low-maintenance and adapt well to various light conditions.

Looking for a specific variety?

Red Princess Pink Princess Heartleaf Velvet Brasil Moonlight

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Bright, indirect light; 6-8 hours daily. Tolerates low light but grows slower. Avoid direct sun which can scorch leaves.

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Water: Water when top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. Reduce watering in winter. Philodendrons prefer slightly moist (not soggy) soil. Allow excess water to drain completely to prevent root rot.

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Spacing: 12-18 inches

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Days to maturity: Not applicable for ornamental houseplants; mature size varies by variety (6 months to 2+ years to reach substantial size)

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Planting depth: Plant at same depth as original container; for stem cuttings, insert 1-2 nodes into soil

Soil

Type: Well-draining peat-based potting mix or orchid bark mix

pH: 6.0-6.5

Amendments:

Peat moss or coco coir Perlite Orchid bark Sphagnum moss for climbing varieties

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Zones 10b-11 for outdoor cultivation; zones 4-12 as houseplants indoors

10b 11a 11b

Growth Stages

Propagation/Rooting

2-4 weeks

Stem cuttings develop tiny rootlets in water or soil; leaves remain small and firm

Keep in bright, indirect light. Change water every 3-5 days if propagating in water. Maintain humidity at 50-70%.

Establishment

4-8 weeks

Young plant develops a small root system and 2-4 true leaves; growth is slow but steady

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Use diluted fertilizer monthly. Begin gently acclimating to target light conditions.

Vegetative Growth

Ongoing, 6+ months

Plant develops multiple stems or trails, with increasingly larger heart-shaped leaves; vining or bushy depending on variety

Water regularly when top soil dries. Apply balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during growing season (spring/summer). Prune to encourage bushiness or train vines.

Mature/Adult

Indefinite with proper care

Plant reaches desired size; may produce small greenish or cream-colored spadix flowers indoors (rare)

Reduce fertilizer frequency to monthly. Prune as needed to control size and shape. Repot every 2-3 years in spring.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Pothos Peperomia Anthurium Monstera Syngonium Spathiphyllum

Avoid planting near:

Direct heat sources Cold drafts Devices that emit ethylene (ripening fruit)

Common Pests

Spray with 70% isopropyl alcohol or insecticidal soap every 7-10 days. Isolate plant. Wipe leaves with cloth dipped in alcohol.
Increase humidity. Spray leaves with water. Apply neem oil or horticultural oil every 7 days if severe.
Manually remove with cloth. Apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Repeat applications every 2 weeks.
Let soil surface dry between waterings. Use yellow sticky traps. Apply neem oil to soil if infestation is severe.

Uses

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Indoor Air Purification

Household

Philodendrons are recognized by NASA studies for removing formaldehyde and other toxins from indoor air. They help improve air quality in homes and offices over time. [source]

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Décor and Space-Filling

Household

Philodendrons create living walls, trail from shelves, or climb moss poles, making them versatile décor elements that add greenery without taking floor space. They suit modern, tropical, or bohemian interior styles. [source]

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Tropical Habitat Recreation

Wildlife

In warm climates outdoors or in terrariums, philodendrons create humid microhabitats that support tropical plant ecosystems and can attract beneficial insects. [source]

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Note on Toxicity

Culinary

Philodendron leaves and stems contain calcium oxalate crystals and are TOXIC if ingested by humans, pets, or livestock. They should never be consumed or used medicinally. Keep away from children and pets. [source]

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Plant Propagation and Sharing

Craft

Philodendrons propagate easily from stem cuttings, making them ideal for plant lovers to share with friends and family or to propagate a large collection from a single plant. [source]

Harvest Tips

Not harvested in traditional sense. Prune stems as desired for propagation (cut just below a node) or to maintain shape. Pinch growing tips to encourage bushier growth. Remove yellowed or dead leaves regularly.

Fun Facts

🌱 The name 'Philodendron' comes from Greek words meaning 'tree' (dendron) and 'love' (philo), reflecting these plants' natural tendency to climb and cling to trees in their native tropical rainforests.
🌱 Some philodendron species can grow over 60 feet in the wild, making them among the largest-leafed houseplants available in cultivation when given proper support.
🌱 Philodendrons are believed to have been among the first tropical houseplants introduced to Victorian homes in Europe during the 19th century, contributing to the popularity of indoor plant collecting.

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