Philodendrons are a diverse genus of tropical plants, widely admired for their lush foliage and adaptability as houseplants. Among the most captivating are the variegated varieties, which display striking patterns of green and white. Two particularly popular cultivars, the Philodendron White Princess and the Philodendron White Wizard, are often sought after. While both exhibit beautiful white variegation, distinguishing between them can be challenging.
Distinguishing Features
Leaf Morphology
The leaves of the Philodendron White Princess typically present a narrower, more elongated, and often spade-shaped or somewhat heart-shaped form. These leaves are smaller. In contrast, the Philodendron White Wizard is characterized by broader, more rounded, heart-shaped leaves. Its foliage tends to grow larger.
Variegation Patterns
Variegation on the Philodendron White Princess is splashes, speckles, or marbled patterns of white. This white coloration can be subtle, sometimes accompanied by hints of light green or even pink, particularly along the veins or edges of the leaves. The variegation on the Philodendron White Wizard, however, is typically more pronounced, forming larger, blockier patches of pure white that contrast with the deep green. These white areas can create distinct sectoral patterns, sometimes appearing as “half-moon” segments on a leaf.
Stem Characteristics
The Philodendron White Princess has green stems that often display splashes of white or even pinkish or reddish hues, particularly at the nodes or where the petioles meet the stem. Conversely, the Philodendron White Wizard is distinguished by its consistently green stems, which may occasionally exhibit white streaks but lack any pink, red, or brownish coloration.
Growth Habit
The Philodendron White Princess typically exhibits a self-heading or semi-vining growth habit, meaning it grows more upright and tends to remain more compact and bushy. It is a slower-growing plant, maintaining a tidier form without extensive support. The Philodendron White Wizard, on the other hand, is a vining plant that climbs. It grows at a faster rate and will produce larger foliage if provided with a moss pole or trellis to support its upward growth.
Care Similarities
Light Requirements
Both the Philodendron White Princess and White Wizard thrive in bright, indirect light. Placing them near a north or east-facing window, or in a spot with filtered light, is ideal. Direct sunlight can scorch their variegated leaves, causing browning or fading of the white patterns. Conversely, insufficient light can cause the variegation to diminish, resulting in more green leaves as the plant attempts to produce more chlorophyll.
Watering Needs
Both prefer the top one to two inches of their potting mix to dry out before being watered thoroughly. Allow excess water to drain completely to prevent the roots from sitting in soggy conditions, which can lead to root rot. While they appreciate consistent moisture, neither tolerates being waterlogged.
Soil Preferences
A well-draining, airy potting mix is suitable. A blend of standard indoor potting soil amended with perlite and orchid bark provides aeration and drainage while retaining some moisture. This type of substrate mimics their natural growing environments and supports healthy root development.
Temperature and Humidity
Both philodendrons prefer warm and humid environments. Temperatures range between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). They benefit from humidity levels between 60% and 80%. In drier indoor settings, using a humidifier or placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water can provide moisture in the air.
Fertilization
During their active growing seasons, spring and summer, both the Philodendron White Princess and White Wizard benefit from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, can be applied every four to six weeks. Fertilize after watering to ensure absorption and to prevent root burn. Fertilization should be reduced or halted during the fall and winter months when plant growth slows.
Rarity, Cost, and Availability
The Philodendron White Princess, while once rare, has become more accessible and reasonably priced. It remains a distinctive hybrid. The Philodendron White Wizard, historically more difficult to find and often accompanied by a higher price tag, has also seen an increase in availability, partly due to tissue culture propagation. However, it remains a highly sought-after plant, and its price can still reflect its desirability and occasional scarcity in the market. Neither plant is typically found in large chain stores; they are more commonly available from specialty plant nurseries or online vendors.
Making Your Choice
Deciding between a Philodendron White Princess and a Philodendron White Wizard depends on personal aesthetic preferences and the desired growth habit. If you appreciate more subtle variegation with hints of pink, a compact growth form, and narrower leaves, the White Princess is more appealing. If you prefer bolder, larger blocks of pure white variegation on broader, heart-shaped leaves, and a vining plant that climbs with support, the White Wizard is a suitable choice. Both plants offer captivating beauty and similar care requirements, making either a rewarding addition to an indoor plant collection.