The ‘Orange Prince’ Philodendron is a visually striking houseplant known for its distinctive foliage. Its leaves display a vibrant spectrum of colors, from bright orange new growth to deep green mature leaves, adding an appealing aesthetic to any indoor space.
Understanding Orange Prince
The ‘Orange Prince’ Philodendron (Philodendron erubescens ‘Prince of Orange’) is a hybrid cultivar, not found naturally. Its most remarkable characteristic is the dramatic color shift of its leaves. New leaves emerge vivid orange or starburst yellow, gradually transitioning through copper and amber before maturing into a rich, dark green. This ensures multiple vibrant shades are present simultaneously.
The plant exhibits an upright, bushy, self-heading growth habit, growing from its center rather than vining. It typically reaches about 24 inches indoors.
Orange Prince Plant Care
Providing the right environment for your ‘Orange Prince’ Philodendron ensures its vibrant appearance and healthy growth. Consistent attention to its specific needs for light, water, soil, temperature, humidity, and fertilization will help it thrive.
Light Needs
The ‘Orange Prince’ Philodendron thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it near an east or west-facing window. Direct sunlight can scorch leaves, causing brown patches or fading its orange color. If a south-facing window is the only option, use a sheer curtain to diffuse light.
Insufficient light results in less vibrant orange hues and stunted growth. Rotate the plant every few weeks for uniform growth.
Watering
Correct watering is crucial for the ‘Orange Prince’ Philodendron, as it is sensitive to both overwatering and underwatering. Water when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry. Overwatering leads to root rot, causing yellowing leaves and wilting. Allowing the soil to dry out completely causes brown leaf tips or drooping. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
Soil Requirements
A well-draining, aerated potting mix is important for the ‘Orange Prince’ Philodendron to prevent waterlogging and promote healthy root development. A suitable mix includes peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark, providing good drainage and moisture retention. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH levels.
Temperature and Humidity
Originating from tropical regions, the ‘Orange Prince’ Philodendron prefers warm temperatures and high humidity. Ideal temperatures range from 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C). Protect the plant from cold drafts or temperatures below 55°F (13°C), as it is not cold-hardy.
While it adapts to average home humidity, maintaining levels around 50% or higher is beneficial to prevent brown leaf tips. Increase humidity using a cool-mist humidifier, grouping tropical plants, or placing the pot on a pebble tray.
Fertilizing
The ‘Orange Prince’ Philodendron benefits from regular fertilization during its active growing season (spring and summer). Apply a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, monthly. This provides nutrients for healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
Reduce or stop fertilization during fall and winter when growth slows. Avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to salt buildup and harm the plant.
Repotting and Propagation
Repotting and propagation maintain plant health and expand your collection. These tasks rejuvenate the plant and create new ones.
Repotting
Repotting is needed every one to two years, or when the plant is root-bound (roots emerging from drainage holes). Spring is the ideal time. Choose a new pot only one to two inches larger in diameter; an excessively large pot can lead to overwatering. Use fresh, well-draining soil for renewed nutrients and aeration.
Propagation
Propagation is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. Cut a healthy stem section, 6 to 8 inches long, just below a leaf node, ensuring a few leaves are attached. Root the cutting in water or directly in moist, well-draining potting mix.
For water rooting, submerge the node and change water every few days; roots appear within two to four weeks. For soil propagation, plant with at least one node buried, keep soil moist, and maintain high humidity (e.g., by covering with a plastic bag). New roots form within weeks.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with care, ‘Orange Prince’ Philodendron owners may encounter common issues. Recognizing symptoms and causes helps address problems quickly.
Yellowing leaves
Yellowing leaves often signal overwatering or poor drainage, which can lead to root rot. It can also indicate underwatering or nutrient deficiencies. Adjust watering and ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Brown leaf tips point to low humidity or underwatering. Increase ambient humidity (humidifiers, pebble trays) to alleviate this. Sparse growth or lack of vibrant orange color suggests insufficient light; move the plant to a brighter, indirect light location.
Pest infestations
Pest infestations can occur. The ‘Orange Prince’ Philodendron can attract spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips. Regularly inspect the plant and treat promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Drooping leaves can signal overwatering, underwatering, extreme temperature changes, or being root-bound. Assess soil moisture and environmental conditions to diagnose the cause.
Safety Information
The ‘Orange Prince’ Philodendron is toxic. Like other philodendrons, it contains calcium oxalate crystals, which cause irritation if ingested. Symptoms include mouth and stomach irritation, excessive drooling, or swelling of the tongue, lips, and throat. Keep the plant out of reach of pets and small children. Contact with sap may also cause skin irritation.