The Philodendron Royal Queen is a distinctive houseplant, prized for its dramatic foliage that brings a sense of elegance to indoor spaces. Its new leaves emerge in a deep, glossy burgundy, almost black, gradually transitioning to a rich, velvety dark green as they mature. This striking coloration, combined with its heart-shaped, sometimes pointed leaves and compact, bushy growth habit, makes it a sought-after addition for plant enthusiasts.
Philodendron Royal Queen Care Guide
Philodendron Royal Queen thrives in bright, indirect light. An ideal location is near an east or west-facing window, receiving gentle morning or late afternoon sun. Too much direct sunlight can scorch leaves, causing them to fade or develop crispy brown spots. Insufficient light results in leggy growth, smaller leaves, or a loss of the plant’s deep coloration. If stems appear stretched with significant space between leaves, move the plant to a brighter spot.
The plant prefers consistent moisture but is sensitive to overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Water when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry to the touch. During warmer months and active growth, watering may be more frequent. During cooler, dormant periods, reduce watering frequency.
An ideal soil mix is well-draining, aerated, and rich in organic matter. A suitable blend includes peat moss, perlite, vermiculite, and orchid bark. This chunky composition prevents the soil from becoming too dense, ensuring proper drainage and aeration for the roots. The plant also prefers a slightly acidic soil pH, between 5.0 and 6.0, which supports nutrient absorption.
The Philodendron Royal Queen thrives in warm temperatures and high humidity. An optimal temperature range is between 65°F (18°C) and 85°F (29°C); protect it from cold drafts or sudden temperature drops. High humidity levels, around 60-80%, are beneficial for its glossy foliage. To increase humidity, use a humidifier, place the plant on a pebble tray, or group it with other plants.
Regular fertilization during the active growing season is important. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half the recommended strength, every four to six weeks during spring and summer. Water the plant thoroughly before and after applying fertilizer to prevent root burn. Reduce or stop fertilization during fall and winter months.
Repotting Your Philodendron Royal Queen
Repotting a Philodendron Royal Queen is needed every two to three years, or when signs like roots emerging from drainage holes, a noticeable slowdown in growth, or the plant appearing root-bound are present. Repotting provides fresh nutrients and more space for root development.
The best time to repot is in the spring. Choose a new pot only one to two inches larger in diameter than the current one, ensuring it has adequate drainage holes. To repot, gently remove the plant from its old container, shaking off excess soil from the roots. Place it in the new pot at the same depth, then backfill with fresh, well-draining potting mix, gently firming the soil around the base.
Propagating Philodendron Royal Queen
Propagating the Philodendron Royal Queen is achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with at least two to three leaves and a few nodes, which are the points on the stem where leaves attach and roots emerge. Using clean, sharp scissors or a knife, make a cut just below a node.
For water propagation, place the cutting in a glass of water, ensuring at least one node is submerged while keeping leaves above the waterline. Change the water every few days to maintain cleanliness and prevent bacterial growth. Roots begin to form within two to four weeks. Once roots are a few inches long, transfer the cutting to a pot with well-draining soil. For soil propagation, plant the cutting directly into a well-draining potting mix, ensuring at least one node is buried, and keep the soil consistently moist.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
Philodendron Royal Queen can exhibit several common issues. Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering or poor drainage, requiring reduced watering frequency and ensuring the soil is not waterlogged. Yellowing can also signal too much light. Brown leaf tips or edges indicate low humidity, which can be remedied by increasing ambient moisture.
Leggy growth, characterized by stretched stems and sparse foliage, results from insufficient light, requiring a move to a brighter, indirect light location. Pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, and aphids can infest the plant. Regular inspection of leaves aids early detection, and these pests can be managed with insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
Distinguishing Philodendron Royal Queen from Similar Varieties
The Philodendron Royal Queen differs from other dark-leaved philodendrons. A key feature is the dramatic color transition of its foliage: new leaves unfurl in a deep, almost black burgundy hue, gradually fading to a rich, dark green. This contrasts with varieties like Philodendron ‘Black Cardinal,’ whose new leaves are brick red and mature to a near-black, maintaining a more consistently dark tone.
Another distinguishing factor is leaf shape and growth habit. The Royal Queen features glossy, heart-shaped leaves and is a self-heading philodendron, forming a bushy, upright shape. In comparison, Philodendron ‘McColley’s Finale’ also displays red new leaves, but they are a brighter chestnut red that mature to a medium green with chestnut shading, and its leaf base is more cordate.
Is Philodendron Royal Queen Toxic?
Like many plants in the Philodendron genus, the Philodendron Royal Queen contains calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals make the plant toxic if ingested. Consumption can lead to irritation and burning sensations in the mouth, throat, and stomach, and may cause swelling or difficulty swallowing. For safety, keep this plant out of reach of children and pets.