The Green Princess Philodendron is a popular houseplant known for its compact, bushy growth and dark green, glossy, heart-shaped leaves. This self-heading philodendron grows upright, does not vine, and maintains a manageable size of about 8-10 inches in height and spread. Its straightforward care makes it suitable for both new and experienced plant enthusiasts.
Caring for Your Green Princess Philodendron
Light
The Green Princess Philodendron thrives in bright, indirect light. An east or west-facing window provides ample illumination without harsh direct sun exposure. Too much direct sunlight can scorch leaves, causing brown patches or fading. Insufficient light may result in leggy growth, slower development, or less vibrant foliage.
Watering
Maintain consistent moisture, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Water the plant when the top 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of soil feel dry. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom, as philodendrons are susceptible to root rot in soggy conditions. Improper watering can cause drooping leaves.
Soil
A well-draining, airy, and rich soil mix is ideal. A good blend includes peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite or orchid bark. This mix provides moisture retention and good drainage, preventing waterlogging. Regular potting soil can be too dense and may lead to root rot.
Humidity and Temperature
This tropical plant prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F (18°C) and 85°F (29°C). Protect it from cold drafts and sudden temperature drops, as temperatures below 60°F (15°C) can cause stress. High humidity levels, above 50-60%, are beneficial. If indoor air is dry, consider using a humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray with water, or misting the leaves regularly.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season (spring and summer), fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. A balanced NPK ratio, such as 10-10-10, promotes lush foliage. Reduce or stop fertilizing during fall and winter when growth slows. Over-fertilization can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which may damage roots.
Propagating Green Princess Philodendron
Propagating the Green Princess Philodendron is commonly done through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem segment with at least one node. Remove any leaves that would be submerged if rooting in water to prevent rot.
For water propagation
Place the cutting in a glass of water, ensuring the node is fully submerged. Position the glass in a warm, bright spot with indirect light. Change the water every few days. Roots typically form within 2-4 weeks. Once roots are several inches long, transfer the cutting to a pot with well-draining soil.
To propagate directly in soil
Fill a small pot with a well-draining potting mix and insert the cut end of the stem, burying at least one node. Lightly water the soil. Consider covering the pot with a plastic bag to create a humid microenvironment, ensuring leaves do not touch the plastic. Keep the soil consistently moist; new growth indicates successful rooting within a few weeks.
Common Issues and Solutions
Yellowing leaves often indicate improper watering. Overwatering can lead to yellow leaves and root rot, while underwatering can also cause yellowing and wilting. Adjusting the watering schedule to allow the topsoil to dry before rewatering, and ensuring proper drainage, can resolve these issues.
Brown leaf tips often point to low humidity. Increase humidity around the plant through misting, a pebble tray, or a humidifier.
Pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips can also affect the Green Princess Philodendron. These sap-sucking insects cause yellowing, distorted leaves, and stunted growth. Regular inspection, particularly of leaf undersides, helps in early detection. Treatments can include forcefully spraying with water, wiping affected areas with an alcohol-soaked cotton swab, or applying insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Repotting Your Green Princess Philodendron
Repotting is needed every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Signs include roots emerging from drainage holes or the plant appearing too dense for its container. Choose a pot only 1-2 inches wider in diameter than the previous one to prevent excessive soil moisture retention.
The best time to repot is during the growing season (spring or summer), as the plant recovers more quickly from root disturbance. Gently remove the plant from its current container and carefully loosen any circling roots. Place the plant in the new pot with fresh, well-draining soil, ensuring it is at the same depth as before. After repotting, a light watering helps settle the new soil around the roots.
Toxicity
The Green Princess Philodendron contains calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic if ingested. These crystals can cause irritation and burning sensations in the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat, along with excessive drooling and difficulty swallowing. While severe complications are uncommon in humans, it is advisable to keep the plant out of reach of children and pets. Symptoms in pets can include vomiting, excess drooling, oral irritation, and pawing at the mouth.