The Philodendron ‘White Princess’ is celebrated for its striking foliage. Its dark green leaves are contrasted with splashes of crisp white variegation, and sometimes hints of pink. This upright-growing plant adds a decorative touch to any indoor space.
White Princess Philodendron Care
Light
The ‘White Princess’ thrives in bright, indirect light, which maintains its white variegation. Direct sunlight can scorch the delicate white parts of the leaves. Insufficient light can slow growth and cause variegation to fade, resulting in predominantly green leaves. Place it near an east or north-facing window for diffused light.
Watering
Allow the top one to two inches of soil to dry out completely before watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent water accumulation. During spring and summer, water more frequently (typically every 7-10 days). Reduce frequency in cooler winter months when growth slows.
Soil
A well-draining, aerated, and nutrient-rich potting mix is ideal. A suitable blend includes standard potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark, which retains moisture without becoming soggy. Peat moss, coco coir, or vermiculite can also enhance drainage and aeration. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, generally between 5.6 and 7.0.
Humidity and Temperature
The ‘White Princess’ prefers a warm and humid environment. Ideal temperatures range between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C); it is sensitive to cold drafts and extreme fluctuations. High humidity, ideally between 60% and 80%, is beneficial. To increase humidity, use a humidifier, place the plant on a pebble tray, or group it with other plants.
Fertilizer
Fertilize regularly during the active growing season (spring and summer). A balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 ratio diluted to half strength, is recommended once or twice a month. Avoid over-fertilization, which can harm roots and lead to salt buildup. Reduce or stop feeding during dormant winter months.
Repotting White Princess Philodendron
Repotting the ‘White Princess’ ensures its continued health. Signs it needs repotting include roots circling the pot, water draining too quickly, or stunted growth. This typically occurs every two to three years, or when roots emerge from drainage holes. The best time to repot is during spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
When repotting, select a new pot one to two inches wider than the current one. An oversized pot can lead to excess moisture and root rot. Gently remove the plant, loosen circling roots, and prune damaged sections. Position the plant in the new pot, fill with fresh, well-draining potting mix, and water thoroughly to help the soil settle.
Propagating White Princess Philodendron
Propagate the ‘White Princess’ primarily through stem cuttings during spring or summer. Use sharp, sterilized scissors or shears to take a stem cutting with at least two healthy leaves and several nodes (points where roots and new leaves emerge). Make the cut just below a node.
After cutting, allow the end to “callus” or dry for a few hours (up to 24 hours) to prevent rot. Cuttings can be rooted in water or a moist, well-draining medium like perlite, sphagnum moss, or a light potting mix. If rooting in water, submerge the nodes and change the water every few days. Once roots are approximately two inches long, transfer the cutting to a suitable potting mix.
Common Problems with White Princess Philodendron
The ‘White Princess’ can show signs of environmental stress or pest issues. Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering (especially if soil is soggy), underwatering, or insufficient light. If soil is consistently wet, allow it to dry more between waterings and check drainage. If the plant appears wilted with yellowing, a thorough watering may be needed.
Browning leaf tips or edges typically point to low humidity, underwatering, or mineral buildup from over-fertilization. Increase humidity with humidifiers or pebble trays, and ensure consistent watering. Loss of variegation (white areas turning greener) signifies insufficient bright, indirect light, requiring relocation to a brighter spot or a grow light.
The ‘White Princess’ is susceptible to common pests:
- Spider mites
- Mealybugs
- Thrips
- Aphids
Regular inspection of leaves, especially undersides, helps detect infestations early. Pests can be managed by wiping leaves with a damp cloth or applying insecticidal soap or neem oil. Brown spots on leaves can also occur due to overwatering or high levels of dissolved solids in the soil.