The White Princess Philodendron is a highly sought-after houseplant, celebrated for its striking foliage. This plant features dark green leaves adorned with splashes of white variegation, sometimes displaying subtle pink hues on its stems or leaves, making each leaf uniquely patterned. A cultivar derived from Philodendron erubescens, native to the tropical rainforests of South America, it offers exotic beauty and manageable care, appealing to both new and experienced plant enthusiasts. Its upright, self-heading growth habit distinguishes it from many vining philodendrons, creating a compact and visually appealing plant.
White Princess Philodendron Care
Light
The White Princess Philodendron thrives in bright, indirect light. Placing it near an east or north-facing window provides optimal diffused light, which helps maintain its vibrant variegation. Too little light can cause variegation to fade and lead to leggy growth. Direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves, especially the white areas.
Watering
Consistent moisture is important, but overwatering can lead to root rot. Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Water thoroughly until excess drains from the pot, ensuring the plant is not left in standing water. Watering frequency varies with environmental factors, typically every 7-10 days during the growing season and less often in cooler months.
Soil Requirements
A loose, well-draining, and aerated potting mix is crucial. An ideal blend often consists of equal parts potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark, providing drainage and moisture retention. Soilless mixtures like peat and vermiculite can also be used. This chunky, organic-rich mix prevents waterlogging.
Temperature and Humidity
As a tropical plant, the White Princess Philodendron prefers warm and humid conditions. Maintain temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C), avoiding sudden fluctuations or cold drafts below 50°F (10°C). High humidity, ideally 60-80%, benefits its foliage. To increase humidity, use a humidifier, place the plant on a pebble tray, or group it with other plants.
Fertilizing
Regular fertilization during the active growing season (spring and summer) supports healthy foliage and prominent variegation. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every few weeks or once or twice a month. Fertilize when the soil is moist to prevent root burn. During dormant winter months, reduce or cease fertilization.
Propagating White Princess Philodendron
Propagating the White Princess Philodendron is achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with at least two leaves and a few nodes. Using clean, sharp shears, make a cut just below a node.
Allow the cut end to callus for a few hours, or up to 24 hours, to prevent rot. Place the cutting in a clear jar of water, ensuring nodes are submerged but leaves remain above the waterline. Position the jar in bright, indirect light, and change the water every few days. Roots typically form within 2-4 weeks.
Once roots are approximately 2 inches long, transfer the cutting to a well-draining potting mix. Alternatively, root cuttings directly in moist sphagnum moss or a soil mix with perlite and peat moss. Keep the rooting medium consistently moist but not soggy, and provide bright, indirect light.
Repotting White Princess Philodendron
Repotting is generally needed every two to three years, or when the plant shows signs of being root-bound. Indicators include roots emerging from drainage holes, water draining too quickly, or a noticeable slowdown in growth. The best time to repot is during spring or early summer.
Choose a new pot approximately 1-2 inches wider than the current one. An oversized pot can hold too much moisture, potentially leading to root rot. Use fresh, well-draining potting mix. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, loosen any circling roots, and place it in the new container, filling with soil around the root ball. After repotting, water thoroughly to help settle the soil and reduce transplant shock.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
Losing Variegation
If the white variegation begins to fade or turn green, it often indicates insufficient light. The white parts of the leaves lack chlorophyll, requiring ample bright, indirect light to thrive. To encourage more white or pink, ensure the plant receives at least six hours of bright, indirect light daily, supplementing with a grow light if natural light is limited.
Leggy Growth
Leggy growth, characterized by long, stretched stems with sparse leaves, signals inadequate light. The plant stretches for a light source, resulting in elongated internodes. To promote bushier growth, move the plant to a brighter location. Pruning leggy stems encourages new, compact growth, and cuttings can be used for propagation.
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves can signal several issues, with overwatering being a common culprit. Saturated soil deprives roots of oxygen. Yellowing can also result from underwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or natural aging. Check soil moisture before watering, ensure good drainage, and consider fertilizer if nutrient deficiency is suspected.
Brown Leaf Tips or Edges
Brown and crispy leaf tips or edges often point to low humidity or underwatering. Increase ambient humidity using a humidifier, pebble tray, or by grouping plants. Consistently checking the soil and watering thoroughly when the top few inches are dry can prevent brown tips.
Pests
While not particularly prone to severe infestations, common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, and aphids can occasionally affect them. Regular inspection helps in early detection. For mild infestations, wipe leaves with a damp cloth or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
White Princess Philodendron Toxicity
The White Princess Philodendron contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation if ingested. This plant is toxic to both humans and pets. Symptoms of ingestion may include oral irritation, pain, swelling of the mouth and throat, and digestive upset. Place the plant in a location inaccessible to children and pets, and wash hands thoroughly after handling.