10 Best Philodendrons (Because We’re So Over Fiddle Leaf Figs)
Move over, fiddle leaf figs! Yes, we love you, but you have a teeny-tiny tendency to be, well, a little on the fussy side if you don’t have perfect conditions. A better choice that’s just as dashing: philodendrons. With more than 400 different species and dozens of different varieties within each species, you’ll fall in love with at least one type—and they’re some of the prettiest, most Insta-grammable houseplants to round out your collection. “Philodendrons are popular because there’s something for everyone,” says Justin Hancock, horticulturist with Costa Farms. “They’re inexpensive, are easy to propagate and they tolerate a wide range of conditions. They’re a great choice for beginners who don’t want to invest in a plant that may not survive.” (Ahem, we’re talking to you again, fiddle leaf).
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Here’s what else you need to know about these low-maintenance houseplants, plus 10 pretty varieties to look for:
How do you care for philodendrons?
Most philodendrons like bright, indirect light. “The more light, the better,” says Hancock. “If your plant casts a good shadow most of the day, you probably have sufficient light.” While some species do okay-ish in low light, they’re not completely happy. They also don’t like to stay wet, so let the top few inches of soil dry out a bit, then stick your finger in to test the soil before watering.
Should I feed my philodendron?
It’s not entirely necessary, but you can feed your philodendron during its active growing season (spring to fall) with any general houseplant fertilizer. It’s personal preference whether you use a liquid or time-release granular, but it’s easier to use the time-release because it will last for months and you won’t have to remember to feed it, says Hancock.
How do you create new plants from existing philodendrons?
Most types of philodendrons, especially the climbing varieties, can be propagated easily by cutting off a 2- to 3-inch section of the stem (though you can’t do it with a few types, such as Red Congo and Birkin). Make sure you see a few brown nubby things on your cutting, which are called leaf nodes. Then plop the cutting in a vase of water with the nodes submerged, changing the water every few days. Keep the vase in a bright spot until you see roots; after about six weeks, transplant the rooted plant in a pot with regular potting soil. An alternate method is to dip the cuttings in rooting powder, then insert into moist potting soil and keep them in warm, humid conditions to facilitate rooting.
The Best Types of Philodendrons to Consider:
1. Philodendron domesticum ‘Golden Goddess’
No wonder people call this stunner the “Golden Goddess”: The climbing plant has stunning chartreuse foliage that can get a foot or so long if you let it climb in a warm, bright spot.
2. Philodendron ‘Birkin’
This self-heading (non-climbing) variety has pretty, spade-shaped dark green leaves that are variegated with creamy pinstripes. It's relatively slow-growing compared to lot of other philodendrons but will eventually become about 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It also doesn’t mind drying out if you’re on the forgetful side.
3. Philodendron hederaceum
Philodendron hederaceum (also called heartleaf philodendron or P. cordatum) is probably the most commonly available variety. With dark green, heart-shaped leaves and a climbing/trailing habit, it’s a sturdy choice for first-time plant parents.
4. Philodendron hederaceum ‘Brasil’
Beyond being the most common variegated form of heartleaf philodendron, it’s also super easy to maintain. It has dark green leaves with a chartreuse center, reminiscent of the flag of Brazil, for which it is said to be named.
5. Philodendron ‘Red Congo’
Also called ‘Rojo Congo,’ the Red Congo is a striking, larger variety philodendron with deep green foliage that emerges a purple-red color. It doesn't climb or trail but instead forms a short stem from which the leaves grow out to form a 3-foot by 3-foot mound. It. It likes lots of light.
6. Philodendron ‘Moonlight’
Moonlight is another self-heading variety. It has a similar size and shape, but its new growth starts out yellow-green before turning dark green.
7. Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’
Prince of Orange is similar to Red Congo and Moonlight, but it has beautiful warm orange hues in its new leaves. It’s an eye-catching, low maintenance floor plant for brightly lit spots.
8. Philodendron selloum (now called Thaumatophyllum selloum)
If you have the space, this showy plant will become an instant focal point in your room. It has deeply lobed leaves that can reach 24 inches or more in length and can reach 5 feet tall outdoors in frost-free environments. Indoors, it will grow slowly, eventually reaching 3 or 4 feet tall. Give it bright light.
9. Philodendron hederaceum Micans
While this one isn't quite as easy to grow as some philodendrons, people love its bronzy, velvety patina. The olive-green heart-shaped leaves on this climber/trailer have an iridescent quality.
10. Philodendron ‘Xanadu’
Xanadu is like a smaller version of P. selloum. It has great texture but doesn't require quite as much space. Give it bright light.
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