The Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ is a popular and visually appealing houseplant, known for its dynamic, color-changing foliage. Its beauty lies in the leaves’ ability to transition through a spectrum of colors.
Identifying the Prince Plant
The Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ is a hybrid cultivar recognized for its distinct color-changing leaves. New leaves emerge coppery-orange, gradually shifting through amber, bronze, yellow, and lime before maturing into a deep, glossy green.
This philodendron has an upright, self-heading growth habit, growing from a central stem rather than vining. Its broad, slightly elongated leaves taper to a subtle point. The plant typically reaches 1 to 2 feet in height and spread, making it suitable for various indoor spaces.
Caring for Your Prince Plant
Light Requirements
Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ thrives in bright, indirect light. Place the plant where it receives ambient or filtered light to maintain vibrant coloring and promote healthy growth. Direct sunlight can scorch leaves, causing brown patches or fading orange hues. Insufficient light results in less vibrant leaf coloration and slower growth.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is essential for the Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’. The plant prefers consistently moist but not waterlogged soil, as overwatering can lead to root rot. Water when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil feel dry. Water thoroughly until excess water drains from the bottom of the pot, ensuring adequate drainage.
Soil Mix
A well-draining, aerated potting medium is crucial for the Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’. A suitable soil mix includes components like peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark, providing drainage and moisture retention. This blend ensures proper root aeration and prevents excessive water accumulation. A slightly acidic to neutral pH level is preferred.
Temperature and Humidity
As a tropical plant, the Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ prefers warm and humid environments. The ideal temperature range is between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C), which aligns with most indoor room temperatures. Protect the plant from cold drafts and temperatures below 55°F (13°C), as it is not cold-hardy.
This philodendron thrives in moderate to high humidity, ideally around 50% or more. In drier indoor environments, especially during winter, increasing humidity benefits the plant. Methods include using a humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, or grouping plants to create a localized microclimate. Brown leaf tips can indicate low humidity.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season (spring and summer), the Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, monthly. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to nutrient burn. Reduce or cease fertilization during fall and winter when growth slows.
Propagating Prince Plants
Propagating the Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ is effectively done through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with at least one node, where leaves and roots emerge. Make a clean cut below a node using sterilized pruning shears.
Cuttings can be rooted in water or directly in a well-draining soil mix. When rooting in water, place the cutting in a glass with the node submerged, changing the water every few days. Roots should develop from the nodes within a few weeks. Once roots are several inches long, transplant the cutting into a pot with suitable soil. High humidity and indirect light can help support the overall health of the new plant.
Addressing Common Prince Plant Challenges
Loss of Vibrant Color
Fading orange hues in your Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ foliage often indicate insufficient light. Move the plant to a location with brighter, indirect light. Nutrient deficiencies can also cause yellowing leaves, which may be addressed with fertilization.
Drooping Leaves
Drooping leaves can signal underwatering, overwatering, or temperature stress. Check soil moisture: if dry, increase watering; if soggy, reduce watering and ensure drainage. Extreme temperatures or drafts can also cause drooping, so maintain a stable environment.
Pest Infestations
While generally resilient, Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ can occasionally attract common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Signs include fine webs, sticky residue, or cotton-like clusters. Organic treatment methods, such as wiping leaves with a damp cloth, rinsing the plant with water, or applying insecticidal soap or neem oil, can help manage these pests.
Leggy Growth
Leggy growth, characterized by elongated stems with sparse foliage, indicates insufficient light. To encourage bushier, compact growth, move the Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ to a brighter location with ample indirect light. Pruning leggy stems can also stimulate new, compact growth.
Repotting and Pruning Your Prince Plant
Repotting your Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ becomes necessary when the plant outgrows its container, typically every one to two years. Signs include roots emerging from drainage holes or the plant becoming root-bound. When repotting, select a new pot one or two inches larger in diameter to avoid excess soil moisture. Spring is often the ideal time.
Pruning helps maintain the plant’s shape, encourages bushier growth, and allows for removal of damaged or yellowing leaves. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Regular pruning can also redirect the plant’s energy towards producing healthy new growth.