The Philodendron ‘Majesty’ is a popular indoor plant known for its striking, dark foliage, ranging from deep burgundy to nearly black with a glossy finish. This hybrid, a cross between Philodendron sodiroi and Philodendron verrucosum, offers a dramatic aesthetic. Its unique coloration and manageable care make it a popular choice for adding tropical beauty to homes.
Caring for Your Philodendron ‘Majesty’
Light
Philodendron ‘Majesty’ thrives in bright, indirect light conditions. Placing the plant a few feet away from a south or west-facing window, or in a room with bright, filtered light, provides ideal exposure. Direct sunlight can scorch its dark leaves, leading to brown spots or a bleached appearance. Insufficient light may cause the foliage to lose its deep color, becoming lighter green, and can result in leggy growth with smaller leaves.
Watering
Proper watering involves allowing the top few inches of soil to dry out between waterings. This means watering approximately once per week, though frequency can vary based on environmental conditions and pot type. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to root rot, identifiable by yellowing leaves. If the leaves begin to wilt or develop crispy brown tips, it indicates underwatering. Ensuring the pot has adequate drainage holes is important to prevent water from accumulating.
Soil Requirements
Philodendron ‘Majesty’ prefers a well-draining, airy potting mix that is rich in organic matter. A suitable blend includes components such as peat moss, perlite, and pine bark or coco chips to provide both moisture retention and proper aeration. The soil should allow for good air circulation around the roots and maintain a slightly acidic pH, ideally between 5.0 and 6.0. Replacing the soil every couple of years can help prevent salt buildup and maintain nutrient levels.
Humidity and Temperature
Reflecting its tropical origins, Philodendron ‘Majesty’ prefers warm temperatures and high humidity. An ideal temperature range is between 65°F and 85°F. Humidity levels between 50% and 70% are most conducive to healthy growth. To increase humidity, place the plant on a pebble tray, use a room humidifier, or mist the foliage occasionally.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season (spring and summer), Philodendron ‘Majesty’ benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula, diluted to half strength, can be applied once a month or every two to four weeks. Reduce fertilization to every six to eight weeks in fall and winter, or stop entirely, as the plant’s growth naturally slows. Over-fertilization can lead to root burn and leaf drop. Stunted growth or smaller-than-usual leaves can indicate a nutrient deficiency.
Repotting and Pruning
Repotting
Repotting your Philodendron ‘Majesty’ is necessary every two to four years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, indicated by roots growing out of drainage holes or the soil drying out quickly. The best time for repotting is in late winter or early spring before the plant enters its active growth phase. When repotting, select a pot that is only one size larger than the current one to prevent excess moisture retention, ensuring it has drainage holes. Gently remove the plant, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Pruning
Pruning helps maintain the plant’s shape, encourages bushier growth, and removes any leggy or damaged stems. This can be done at any time of year, though spring or summer is ideal when the plant is actively growing. To prune, use sterile shears or a sharp knife to cut stems just above a leaf node or where they join the main stem. Removing yellowing or dead leaves improves the plant’s appearance and overall health.
Propagating Philodendron ‘Majesty’
Propagating Philodendron ‘Majesty’ is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. The optimal time for propagation is during spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.
To propagate:
Take a healthy stem cutting at least 6 inches long, including several leaf nodes.
Remove the lower leaves, leaving only two or three at the top.
Root the cutting in water or directly in a moist, well-draining potting mix.
For water rooting, place the cutting in a jar with water, ensuring nodes are submerged, and change the water if it becomes cloudy.
For soil rooting, dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional) and plant it in a pot with suitable mix, gently patting the soil.
Place the pot or jar in a warm location with bright, indirect light, keeping soil consistently moist but not soggy if rooting in soil.
Roots develop within a few weeks. Once at least an inch long, water-rooted cuttings can be transplanted into soil.
Common Issues and Solutions
Yellowing leaves on a Philodendron ‘Majesty’ can indicate overwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or excessive direct sunlight. Address this by ensuring the soil dries between waterings, applying a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, and moving the plant to bright, indirect light.
Brown leaf tips or edges often point to low humidity or underwatering. Increase humidity with a pebble tray or humidifier and ensure consistent watering.
Stunted growth may result from insufficient light, inadequate nutrients, or the plant being root-bound. Provide appropriate light levels, fertilize regularly, and repot when necessary.
Common pests include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Regularly wiping leaves with a damp cloth helps prevent infestations, and treating affected plants promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil controls pests. Poor airflow can also contribute to fungal issues like powdery mildew.