The Philodendron Royal Queen is a striking houseplant, admired for its unique, dark foliage. New leaves emerge in a deep, almost black burgundy, transitioning to a rich, glossy dark green as they mature, creating dynamic visual appeal. This cultivated variety belongs to the Philodendron genus, originating from the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. Its self-heading, bushy growth habit makes it well-suited for indoor environments, where it can reach 3 to 4 feet tall.
Caring for Your Philodendron Royal Queen
Light Requirements
The Philodendron Royal Queen thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural dappled sunlight. Place it near a window with a sheer curtain; too much direct sun can scorch leaves and fade their color. Insufficient light leads to leggy growth with sparse leaves. Pale or yellow leaves might indicate excessive light, while small, dark green leaves signal inadequate light.
Watering Needs
Proper soil moisture is important for the Philodendron Royal Queen. The plant prefers consistently moist soil but is susceptible to root rot if overwatered; allow the top inch or two of soil to dry between waterings. Overwatering often results in yellowing leaves, particularly on younger, bottom leaves, and a mushy root system. Conversely, underwatering can cause leaves to droop, become limp, or turn yellow and brown from the tips.
Soil Mix
A well-draining, rich, organic potting mix is suitable for the Philodendron Royal Queen. An ideal blend includes components like peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite, providing good aeration and moisture retention without waterlogging. Some growers also recommend mixes with coco coir, orchid bark, or horticultural charcoal to enhance drainage and prevent compaction. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a preferred pH between 5.0 and 6.0.
Temperature and Humidity
As a tropical plant, the Philodendron Royal Queen prefers warm temperatures, ideally 65°F (18°C) to 85°F (29°C). It is sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature drops, which can cause stress and leaf drop. High humidity (60-80%) is also beneficial, mimicking its native rainforest environment. To increase ambient humidity, use a humidifier, mist regularly, or place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
Fertilization
During the active growing season (spring and summer), the Philodendron Royal Queen benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every four to six weeks. Alternatively, use slow-release pellets at the beginning of the growing season. Reduce or stop fertilization entirely during fall and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows.
Propagating Philodendron Royal Queen
Propagating the Philodendron Royal Queen is commonly done through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem section, 4 to 6 inches long, ensuring it has at least one node where new roots and shoots will emerge. Remove any leaves from the bottom, leaving only a few at the top.
Cuttings can be rooted in water or soil. For water propagation, submerge the node in purified water, changing it every few days for cleanliness. Roots develop within two to four weeks; once a few inches long, transplant the cutting into a suitable potting mix.
For soil propagation, plant the cutting directly into a well-draining potting mix, ensuring the node is buried. Rooting hormone can be applied to the cut end for faster root development, though it is optional. Keep the soil consistently moist and place the pot in a warm location with bright, indirect light to encourage rooting.
Common Problems and Solutions
Philodendron Royal Queen plants can experience several issues, often signaled by foliage changes. Yellowing leaves frequently indicate overwatering or poor drainage, suggesting a need to adjust watering frequency or improve soil composition. Conversely, yellowing or browning leaves, especially on older foliage, might signify underwatering, prompting a deep watering. Brown leaf tips can also point to low humidity, which can be mitigated by increasing moisture in the air.
Pest infestations are another common concern, with spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips occasionally affecting philodendrons. These sap-sucking pests can cause yellowing foliage and stunted growth. Regular inspection of leaves, particularly the undersides, helps in early detection. Treatment options range from wiping leaves with a damp cloth to using appropriate insecticidal soaps.
Leggy growth, characterized by long, stretched stems with widely spaced leaves, indicates insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location with indirect sunlight resolves this issue. Pruning leggy stems encourages bushier growth, and pruned sections can be used for propagation.
Repotting Your Royal Queen
Repotting the Philodendron Royal Queen becomes necessary when the plant outgrows its current container, typically every two to three years. Signs include roots emerging from drainage holes, stunted growth, or the soil drying out quickly. While philodendrons can tolerate being somewhat root-bound, regular repotting promotes healthier growth.
When repotting, choose a pot only slightly larger, about 2 inches wider in diameter, than the current one. A pot that is too large can hold excess moisture, increasing the risk of root rot. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, loosen any circling roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh, well-draining soil. The best time to repot is during early summer or spring, the plant’s active growing season, allowing it to recover quickly from transplant shock.