The Philodendron White Princess is a popular houseplant known for its striking variegated foliage. Its deep green, heart-shaped leaves are uniquely splashed with vibrant white, and sometimes subtle pink, variegation. This plant is valued for its ornamental appeal and manageable care. Unlike many philodendrons, the White Princess grows upright rather than vining, making it an appealing indoor specimen.
White Princess Philodendron Care
Light
The Philodendron White Princess thrives in bright, indirect light. This is crucial for maintaining its distinct white variegation. Place the plant near an east or north-facing window for ample filtered light. Direct, harsh sunlight can scorch the delicate white parts of the leaves. Insufficient light can cause variegation to fade, resulting in more green foliage and slower growth.
Water
Consistent moisture is important for the White Princess, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Water the plant when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil feel dry. Saturate the soil until water drains from the pot’s bottom, then discard excess water. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Soil
The Philodendron White Princess requires a well-draining, airy, and nutrient-rich potting mix. A suitable blend includes standard potting soil combined with components like perlite and orchid bark to enhance drainage and aeration. Some mixes also incorporate coco coir, peat moss, or charcoal for a chunky, moisture-retentive environment. The ideal soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral, typically ranging between 5.6 and 7.0.
Temperature and Humidity
The White Princess Philodendron prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is sensitive to extreme temperature fluctuations and cold drafts; place it away from air conditioners or heating vents. High humidity is also important, with optimal levels ranging from 60% to 80%. To increase humidity, use a humidifier, group plants, or place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
Fertilizer
Regular fertilization during the active growing season (spring and summer) supports robust growth and vibrant variegation. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 ratio, diluted to half strength, is recommended. Fertilize every two to four weeks, ensuring the soil is moist before application to prevent root burn. During dormant fall and winter months, reduce or cease fertilization as the plant’s growth naturally slows.
Repotting White Princess Philodendron
Repotting the Philodendron White Princess is needed every two to three years, or when the plant shows signs of being root-bound. Indicators include roots circling the bottom of the pot, roots emerging from drainage holes, or water draining too quickly. Stunted growth can also signal a need for more space.
The best time to repot is during spring or early summer, aligning with the plant’s active growing season. Choose a new pot one to two inches wider than the current one, ensuring adequate drainage holes. Avoid excessively large pots, as too much soil can retain excess moisture and lead to root rot.
To repot, gently remove the plant from its old container, taking care not to damage the roots. Lightly loosen the root ball and trim any damaged or circling roots. Add a layer of fresh, well-draining potting mix to the bottom of the new pot, center the plant, and fill around the root ball, gently firming it. After repotting, water thoroughly and place the plant in bright, indirect light. Allow the soil to dry slightly more than usual for the first few waterings to help prevent transplant shock.
Propagating White Princess Philodendron
Propagating the Philodendron White Princess is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with at least two leaves and a few nodes (small bumps where roots and new leaves emerge). Using clean, sharp pruning shears or a knife, make a cut just below a node.
Allow the cut end to air dry for a few hours, or up to 24 hours, to form a callus; this helps prevent rot, especially when rooting in water. For water propagation, place the cutting in a clear container with room-temperature water, ensuring at least one node is submerged while leaves remain above the waterline. Change the water every few days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Roots typically form within two to four weeks. Once they are about two inches long, transfer the cutting to a well-draining potting mix.
Alternatively, cuttings can be rooted directly in a moist, well-aerated soil mix or sphagnum moss. When planting in soil, ensure the node is covered and keep the medium consistently moist but not waterlogged. Providing high humidity around the cutting, such as by placing it in a clear plastic bag or a propagation box, can encourage faster root development. Once established, care for the young plant as you would a mature White Princess.
Common Problems and Solutions
Variegation issues are common with the White Princess Philodendron. White portions may fade or turn green if the plant does not receive enough bright, indirect light. To encourage vibrant variegation, move the plant to a brighter location, avoiding direct sun exposure that can scorch delicate white areas. Browning or crisping of white parts can indicate low humidity, underwatering, or too much direct sun. Increasing humidity and checking soil moisture consistently can help.
Pests can occasionally affect Philodendron White Princess, though they are not prone to severe infestations. Common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, aphids, and fungus gnats may appear. Signs of infestation include tiny insects on leaves, webbing, or sticky residue. Regular inspection and wiping leaves clean can deter pests. Treating with insecticidal soap or neem oil is often effective for control.
Root rot is a concern, primarily caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, drooping, soft stems, and a foul odor from the soil. To prevent root rot, always allow the top few inches of soil to dry before watering, and ensure the pot has drainage holes. If root rot is suspected, gently remove the plant, trim any mushy or dark roots, and repot into fresh, well-draining soil.
General leaf issues like yellowing leaves can stem from overwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or insufficient light. Brown tips or edges often point to low humidity, underwatering, or mineral buildup from tap water. Adjusting watering practices, increasing humidity, or using filtered water can resolve these problems. Drooping leaves can signal either underwatering or overwatering; check soil moisture first.
Leggy growth, characterized by elongated stems with sparse foliage, indicates the plant is not receiving enough light and is stretching to find it. Moving the plant to a brighter location with ample indirect light will promote more compact and bushy growth. Pruning leggy stems can also encourage new growth closer to the main stem, improving its appearance.