Philodendrons, a diverse genus native to tropical Central and South America, are popular houseplants cherished for their adaptability and striking foliage. Dark-leaved varieties offer a unique aesthetic with their deep, dramatic coloration. Their rich hues provide compelling contrast and visual interest in indoor plant collections.
Popular Dark-Leaved Philodendron Varieties
The Philodendron ‘Black Cardinal’ is a hybrid known for its glossy, broad, oval leaves that undergo a striking color transformation. New leaves emerge with a light bronze or orange hue, gradually maturing through shades of deep green and dark burgundy to eventually become nearly black. This self-heading variety maintains a low-growing, clumping habit, distinguishing it from vining types and making it suitable for various indoor settings.
The Black Gold Philodendron (Philodendron melanochrysum) is a highly prized climbing species. It features elongated, heart-shaped leaves that possess a luxurious, velvety texture. New leaves may appear with a pink or red-brown tint, but they mature into a deep, almost black-green, beautifully accented by prominent golden or pale green veins. Its name, “melanochrysum,” means “black gold,” referencing the subtle golden sparkles sometimes visible on the dark leaves. For optimal development and larger leaf size, this philodendron benefits from a moss pole or support to climb.
The Philodendron ‘Dark Lord’ is a magnificent specimen with dramatic, arrow-shaped foliage. Its leaves emerge a rich burgundy or deep orange, transforming into a profound, almost black-green as they mature, often retaining a metallic maroon underside. This large-growing hybrid, derived from Philodendron erubescens, can reach impressive heights, making a bold statement in any indoor garden. Vibrant red stems further enhance its striking appearance.
The Philodendron ‘Imperial Red’ is an attractive hybrid cultivar with glossy, leathery leaves. These leaves transition from a rich, reddish-burgundy when young to deep green, often retaining red or purple undersides as they age. Unlike many vining philodendrons, ‘Imperial Red’ exhibits a compact, upright, and self-heading growth habit, forming a dense, bushy shape. This makes it an excellent choice for tabletops or floor containers, providing a vibrant tropical feel without requiring extensive space or support.
Understanding Dark Leaf Coloration
The deep, rich coloration found in certain philodendron varieties is a result of specific plant pigments. High concentrations of chlorophyll, the primary green pigment in plants, contribute significantly to the dark green appearance. In addition to chlorophyll, many dark-leaved philodendrons also contain anthocyanins, water-soluble pigments responsible for red, purple, and blue hues. The presence of anthocyanins, often alongside high chlorophyll levels, creates the burgundy, bronze, or nearly black tones seen in these varieties. The intensity of these colors can also be influenced by light exposure, with some plants exhibiting deeper shades in brighter, indirect light.
Optimizing Care for Dark-Leaved Philodendrons
Providing appropriate care is important for maintaining the vibrant dark coloration of these philodendrons. Bright, indirect light is preferred, as this mimics their natural habitat under a tropical canopy. While they can tolerate lower light conditions, insufficient light may result in leggier growth and less intense leaf color. Direct sunlight, however, should be avoided, as it can scorch their delicate leaves, leading to leaf burn or faded patches.
Consistent watering practices are important. Philodendrons prefer their soil to dry out slightly between waterings; allowing the top inch or two of soil to become dry to the touch before rewatering is a common recommendation. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while prolonged underwatering can cause leaves to wilt or brown. Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot, ensuring proper drainage to prevent the plant from sitting in soggy soil.
Philodendrons thrive in warm, humid environments, mirroring their tropical origins. Temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C) are ideal for most varieties. Maintaining humidity levels around 50-70% can promote healthy growth and prevent leaf issues. This can be achieved through regular misting, using a pebble tray with water, or employing a humidifier, especially in drier indoor climates. During the growing season (spring and summer), feeding with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks, often diluted to half strength, supports robust growth and vibrant foliage. Reduce or discontinue fertilization during colder, slower-growth months.
Troubleshooting Leaf Discoloration
While many philodendrons naturally exhibit dark foliage, sometimes leaves can turn excessively dark, black, or develop dark spots due to underlying issues. Overwatering is a frequent cause of blackening leaves and root rot. Symptoms of root rot include yellowing, drooping, or mushy leaves, often accompanied by a foul odor from the soil and dark, mushy roots. To address this, ensure the pot has drainage holes, use well-draining soil, and allow the top layer of soil to dry before watering again. If root rot is suspected, the plant may need to be removed from its pot, affected roots trimmed, and repotted in fresh, well-draining soil.
Nutrient deficiencies can also manifest as leaf discoloration, such as yellowing that can progress to darker tones if severe. For example, pale new growth might indicate a need for more calcium or magnesium. Providing a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can help prevent such deficiencies. Cold damage, often from exposure to drafts or temperatures below 60°F (15°C), can cause leaves to turn black. Moving the plant to a warmer, more stable environment is recommended.
Pest infestations, including spider mites, aphids, or mealybugs, can lead to black spots or patches on leaves as they feed on the plant’s sap. Regular inspection of the plant, especially the undersides of leaves, can help detect pests early. Treatment with natural remedies like neem oil or insecticidal soap can manage pest populations effectively.