Origins
Philodendrons, which are part of the Araceae family, bring together a wide variety of plants with varied and decorative foliage and are fairly easy to care for indoor plants. They are mostly native to Central and South America, but some varieties also come from Asia. There are several hundred species, all of which have in common that they come from tropical forests and grow under the plant cover in their original habitat.
From the Greek philo (friend) and dendron (tree), the philodendron is the plant “which loves trees”, thus referring to certain climbing species which attach themselves to trees, using them squarely as tutors to grow and achieve better brightness by gaining height.
Botanical point of view
Philodendrons include both evergreen shrubs and woody climbing plants. These are perennial plants in their natural habitat (but which cannot withstand our Quebec winters), terrestrial, saxicolous (live on rocks) or epiphytic (use other plants as support), very often climbing and lianescent (having the appearance of a liana). Many philodendrons have long aerial roots.
This is a species whose specimens come in many sizes and shapes and which can have varied colors. Most philodendrons have green leaves, but some may be copper-red, orange, lime green, almost black, have cream variegation or reddish veins, etc. Often the leaves are colorful, red, yellowish or orange when they grow, then turn greener hues when mature.
The philodendron is a fascinating plant when it comes to the shape of its leaves. They can be heart-shaped (heart-shaped), sagittal (arrow-shaped), oval or long and narrow. Some varieties have deeply lobed leaf blades (the edge is cut inwards), making them simply spectacular. The foliage can vary greatly in size depending on the variety.
Flowers are not the main attraction of philodendrons, but philodendrons do bloom. Their tiny flowers are white, yellow or cream and are assembled on a spadix (a spike), which is surrounded by a spathe (a bract that resembles a leaf), which can vary in color depending on the species. The fruits produced, when there are any, are called berries.
Growing conditions
Brightness
Given their original conditions, philodendrons appreciate humid and shady places. Simple to grow, they are tolerant of low light, but exposure to brighter light will give them more colorful leaves and sturdier stems. The thing to remember is that while they are tolerant of darker locations and also like good light, it is important not to expose them to direct sunlight, which could burn their leaves. A west-facing window would therefore be a great exposure for philodendrons.
Watering and relative humidity
During the growing season (March-October), water regularly, allowing the surface substrate to dry between waterings. You must avoid excess water and not leave stagnant water in the saucer. Philodendrons are very susceptible to root rot. But at the same time, they like to have a slightly moist soil at all times. We must therefore be very attentive. If you notice leaves turning yellow and falling, this may be a sign of excess water. In winter, watering is reduced, while avoiding letting the substrate dry out completely.
It should be noted that watering with too cold water can cause brown spots on the leaves. It is therefore recommended to water with water at room temperature, preferably having rested for 24 hours.
Since philodendrons like high relative humidity, some recommend misting them with warm water if your environment is dry. Placing a humidifier nearby is an even better solution, because the humidity particles are so fine that they are better absorbed by the plants and you also avoid having spots from water drops on your leaves.
Fertilization
It is recommended to fertilize approximately once a month during the growing season (March-October) with a balanced fertilizer, type 1-1-1 . Gaïa Green's all-purpose fertilizer , for example, is perfect for the needs of philodendrons. 
You can also add Earthalive soil activator to your irrigation water, a natural fertilizer composed of beneficial bacteria that allow better availability of nutrients in the soil.
Elongated, thin stems and increasingly sparse leaves may indicate a nutrient deficiency or lack of light. It will therefore be appropriate to place the plant in a brighter room and fertilize.
Substrate
Your philodendrons will thrive in a draining, aerated, slightly acidic substrate rich in organic matter. A potting soil for tropical plants will be perfect (for example: Connaisseur potting soil , Promix potting soil or our homemade mix ).
You can also amend your substrate to increase organic matter. To do this, different options are available to you, such as adding insect droppings or earthworm compost to your soil, which will be excellent sources of organic matter in addition to acting as fertilizer. long-term.
Repotting
Regarding repotting, you must be careful not to repot in pots that are too large because, generally speaking, philodendrons thrive when they are cramped in containers. For large plants that we do not want to change containers, but which show signs of nutrient deficiency, we can do topping: we remove a layer of the old potting soil and replace it with new potting soil. When watering, nutrients will become incorporated into the substrate and eventually reach the root system.Interview
Some varieties of philodendrons have aerial roots that can grow quite large. It is recommended not to cut them, as they are air humidity sensors and participate in the plant's growth process.
It is normal that some leaves dry out eventually, just cut them off. Pinching the stems of the climbers will encourage their branching and help to have a denser plant.
To clean philodendrons, they can be placed in the shower and rinsed with a moderate, lukewarm spray or cleaned with a damp sponge.
As for pests, philodendrons can be sensitive to, among other things, mealybugs and thrips. It is suggested to monitor their appearance particularly during hot and dry conditions and treat so that pests do not damage your plant.
Toxicity
Use caution if you have children or pets, as all philodendrons are toxic when ingested.Varieties
There are climbing philodendrons and non-climbing philodendrons. Let’s look at these differences in a little more detail.Climbing varieties
Climbing varieties, such as Philodendron hederaceum and its varieties ( Philodendron hederaceum 'Brasil' ,'Micans' , 'Aureum' ) are often grown in hanging baskets, in totems (stakes) or for green walls. They are in fact climbers if we give them a support to climb, but we can also say that they are creeping or hanging depending on where we place them. In general, the higher they climb, the bigger the leaves. In their native habitat, climbing philodendrons can reach up to 6 meters in length. In our homes, we can prune them regularly to control growth and stimulate branching.
Non-climbing
Non-climbing varieties, such as Philodendron bipinnatifidum (or Philodendron selloum ) and Philodendron ' Mccolley's Finale' have a rather arborescent habit and are grown in pots. Most can reach good dimensions, this must be taken into account when purchasing.
Our favorite non-climbing philodendrons
Philodendron 'Birkin'
Philodendron ' Birkin' has a fairly compact shrubby habit and dark green leaves streaked with light yellow or cream variegation. Each sheet will be different from the previous one. A hybrid resulting from a mutation of the Philodendron ' Rojo Congo' , it is not found in the wild. It is a little smaller in size than other philodendrons and has a rather slow growth. Philodendron ' Birkin' tolerates dry air better than other philodendrons and adapts to a wide variety of lighting conditions. It will, however, need bright, indirect light to maintain its magnificent variegations.
Philodendron ' Prince of Orange'
The Philodendron ' Prince of Orange' was named after its leaves which have the uniqueness of changing color a few times before maturity. ' Prince of Orange' is a stunning species with intense orange-bronze leaves which then turn salmon. Over time, the leaves turn golden, then light green, and once mature they turn dark green. You can find all these colors at the same time on a plant! This makes it an unusual ornamental plant. 
Philod endron billietiae
Philodendron billietiae is endemic in two regions, one near the Rio Oiapoque in French Guiana and the other in Brazil near the Rio Negro. In its natural habitat, this variety has been seen growing at ground level near rocks or as an epiphyte on trees. The leaves of this specimen are stout, rather triangular, long and narrow, and can reach an impressive length of 3 feet (90 cm). Philodendron billietiae produces dark, semi-glossy leaves on the upper side but much paler and slightly shiny on the underside. The edges of the leaves are wavy and the petioles are orange-yellow, which gives it a really special look.
Philodendron 'Black Cardinal'
Philodendron 'Black Cardinal', sometimes called 'Blushing' Philodendron or Philodendron erubescens 'Black Cardinal', has a shrubby habit and large, oval, glossy blackish-green leaves. When new leaves emerge, they are rolled into a burgundy sheath and are initially burgundy red. As they mature, they turn dark green and over time they will become almost black. This philodendron can grow up to 3 feet (90 cm) tall. 
Philodendron 'Moonlight'
Philodendron 'Moonlight' is a luminous philodendron, with lanceolate (lance-shaped) yellow-green, lime, almost fluorescent foliage. As the leaves age, they become a little darker. Having a shrubby habit, it has a rather slow growth. It is not a climber, strictly speaking, but it may eventually need a stake to hold itself better. When mature, Philodendron 'Moonlight' reaches a maximum height of 20 to 24 in. (50-60 cm) and a width of 20 to 26 in. (50 to 66 cm).
Philodendron 'Kathleen'
Philodendron 'Kathleen' (or 'Cathaline') is a clever mix of 'Prince of Orange' and 'Mccolley's Finale' . With its appearance of 'Prince of Orange' enhanced with the brilliant reddish coloring of 'Mccolley's Finale', it is a marvel of fall colors. At the shrubby post, this philodendron has tapered lanceolate leaves that emerge in shades of red and gradually turn green. 
Philodendron melinonii 'Green'
Philodendron melinonii 'Green' is non-climbing and has large, dark green oblong-triangular waxy leaves with clearly defined veins that can easily reach 19 in (48 cm) long and are supported by a thick petiole that can vary in color from copper red to pale green. In its natural habitat, it can be seen at the top of trees, like a crown, which makes it a philodendron capable of tolerating direct sun a little more than the others. However, you should not overuse it, as the foliage can turn yellow and burn. This plant will become quite large (4 to 6 feet – 1 to 1.8 m.) wide and high) if the conditions are optimal, so allow space, but also know that you can prune it without problem to control it. 
Philodendron goeldii
Philodendron goeldii is also known as 'Finger Leaf' because of the truly unique shape of its leaves. Indeed, this plant has really particular foliage: with spiral stems, the leaves are spread out like the fingers of a hand, and when they are large, this gives it the appearance of a palm tree. This makes it a spectacular plant. This is a medium-growing, non-climbing philodendron that can reach 6 feet (2 m.) tall. Botanists have recently classified it in the genus Thaumatophyllum Spruceanuma , rather than in the Philodendrons following certain discoveries.
Our favorite climbing philodendrons
Philodendron erubescens 'Pink Princess'
THE Philodendron erubescens 'Pink Princess' is undoubtedly one of the most popular at the moment. With its glossy dark green, almost black foliage and its magnificent light pink variegation, it is not called 'Pink Princess' for nothing. The leaves of PPP , as it is sometimes called, are indeed the place of dazzling contrast with the splashes of pink. This variegation is not constant, each new leaf will be a surprise. THE Philodendron erubescens are climbing plants by nature, so be sure to give it a trellis or pole to climb on. As it grows, gently secure the vine to the support structure.
The green and pink color combination is necessary for your 'Pink Princess' is thriving. The green parts are essential for photosynthesis. So if too many leaves start to turn pink, your plant will struggle to feed itself and may die. On the other hand, if you have too much green, you lose what makes your plant a 'Pink Princess'. If you notice new leaves growing pure pink, prune the stems just above the node (the place where your new variegated leaves will grow). Ideally, you try to keep one last leaf on the stem with balanced variegation.
Philodendron erubescens 'White Knight'
Philodendron erubescens 'White Knight' has oval, glossy leaves and is very similar to 'Pink Princess', but with white rather than pink variegation. Philodendron erubescens are climbers by nature, so be sure to give it a trellis or pole to climb on. As it grows, gently secure the vine to the support structure. The leaves will expand when grown vertically.
The variegation will differ from one leaf to another. One leaf may emerge with little or no variegation and the next leaf may emerge with little or no green. All this is part of the charm of this houseplant, but be aware that good light will encourage the development of variegation. The green and white color combination is necessary for your 'White Knight' to thrive. The green parts are essential for photosynthesis. So if too many leaves start to turn white, your plant will have difficulty feeding and may die. On the other hand, if you have too much green, you lose what makes your plant a 'White Knight'. If you notice new leaves growing pure white, prune the stems just above the node (the place where your new variegated leaves will grow). Ideally, you try to keep one last leaf on the stem with balanced variegation.
Philodendron imbe
The Philodendron imbe is a rare variety. Quite fast growing, this philodendron can produce stems extending up to nearly 16 feet (5 m.). The large green leaves, glossy and quite leathery, have a cordate-sagittal shape. These stems that hang from hanging baskets, climb trellises or wrap around stakes will give a truly exotic look to your decor. This philodendron is not picky about lighting. It can withstand bright, indirect light, but also dim lighting. That said, if the leaves are getting smaller and the stems are lacking in vigor, this is a sign that it is not enough. 
Philodendron ' Ring of Fire'
Philodendron ' Ring of Fire' , previously called Philodendron 'Henderson's Pride' has large, deeply serrated leaves that grow in shades of orange, red, cream and green, giving it the appearance of fire burning. It is a very slow growing climbing specimen. As it climbs, we suggest securing it to a sphagnum moss stake. In more humid environments, it is normal to see many aerial roots forming. If you want stronger variegation, move your plant to a location that receives brighter light (but not direct sunlight). Allow the soil to dry out more between waterings during winter seasons. 
Philodendron ' Florida Ghost'
The Philodendron ' Florida Ghost' , named after the shape of its leaves reminiscent of a ghost, is a rare tropical plant very popular with collectors. Also called 'White Ghost,' this climbing cultivar produces single leaves, up to nearly a foot long (30 cm), that emerge white, then slowly turn cream and then various shades of green until which they turn a dark green when fully ripe. Each climbing stem bears several large leaves that continue to grow larger as the vine spreads. This plant, which can reach 8 feet (nearly 2.5 m.) in the wild, will reach 2 to 4 feet (60 to 120 cm) tall in your homes. As it grows slowly, it takes around ten years before it reaches this size. She will do well in a window facing North.
Philodendron ' Narrow'
Philodendron ' Narrow' (sometimes called 'Tiger Tooth' or 'Jungle Boogie') has beautiful, long, narrow green leaves that are heavily serrated. Its leaves can grow up to 2.5 feet (75 cm) long. Coming from tropical rainforests, it is a variety of philodendron yet capable of supporting an environment with lower relative humidity than the majority of philodendrons. It will need to be supported with a stake and may develop long aerial roots. Allow space if you adopt a Philodendron ' Narrow', because it grows quickly and can take up a lot of space if it is happy. And it doesn't take much for him to be happy.
Philodendron ' Jose Buono'
The Philodendron ' Jose Buono' (sometimes called Philodendron ' Jose Bueno') has large, variegated, paddle-shaped leaves whose white patterns vary greatly from plant to plant. Growing up to 2 feet (60 cm) long, the leaves of 'Jose Buono' are sure to add an exotic touch to your environment. This is a vigorous climbing variety that can reach 12 to 20 feet (3.5 m. to 6 m.) tall, but this will require patience as this philodendron is slow growing. And if it becomes invasive, it will cope well with being pruned.
Philodendron mamei 'Silver Cloud'
Philodendron mamei 'Silver Cloud' is creeping and although it grows as a ground cover, it is also epiphytic and can climb trees. It has large cordate (heart-shaped) green leaves with significant silver variegation. Philodendron leaves mamei 'Silver Cloud' are thinner than those of many other species and their deep veins give the leaves a somewhat wrinkled appearance. The petiole (which connects the stem to the leaf) is dark brown red. The adult size of this philodendron can reach 3 feet (90 cm) and its leaves can reach 18 in. wide in the wild. In your home, expect 5-8" wide (12-20 cm) leaves instead. Climbing it to a stake will encourage the development of leaf size.
Philodendron ' Red Sun '
Philodendron 'Red Sun', sometimes called Philodendron 'Sun Red', is a very decorative climbing variety that grows quite quickly. It is a good climber, with the vines which can become quite long (6 feet – 1.8 m.), so you must provide a stake. Its glossy, color-changing foliage is simply spectacular. Its new oval leaves emerge in very bright shades of red, fading to burgundy and eventually turning green. The different leaves that grow and develop at different times make this plant beautiful and attractive.
Philodendron ' Golden Goddess'
The Philodendron ' Golden Goddess', also called Philodendron ' Malay Gold' , is a climbing variety, rather fast growing, easy for beginners. With its extremely bright, light green foliage, this philodendron adds plenty of contrast when set against other plants. It can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 m.) tall if given a suitable environment. This philodendron can survive in low light conditions, but if you want to see truly golden yellow leaves, place it somewhere with more light, but without direct sun.
Philodendron melanochrysum
Philodendron melanochrysum is sometimes called the Philodendron andreanum , 'Black Gold' Philodendron or 'Velvet' Philodendron . When the heart-shaped leaves of this vigorously climbing philodendron first unfurl, they are a lighter green with yellow-brown undertones. Eventually, they darken to a beautiful dark green, are velvety and have yellowish veins running through them. Melanochrysum means "black gold" and aptly describes the tiny golden sparkles sometimes seen when the velvety blackish-green leaf blades of adult plants are exposed to light. Like many other Philodendrons, the leaves change shape and elongate as the plant climbs. They can reach about a meter (100 cm) long. This philodendron can grow very large, but it will handle pruning well if you need to control it.
Philodendron 'Splendid'
Philodendron 'Splendid', sometimes also called Philodendron 'Glorious', is a cross between Philodendron verrucosum and the Philodendron melanochrysum . It has large velvety leaves (its inheritance from melanochrysum ) and veined leaves (its inheritance from verrucosum ) which are breathtaking. The lanceolate (spear-shaped) or cordate (heart-shaped) leaves have light green veins and each leaf is covered with a soft fuzz which gives it a shiny satin appearance. Additionally, the underside of the leaves are a mix of red and green colors. The large leaves can reach a length of up to two feet (60 cm). 'Splendid' is relatively fast growing and if it climbs a stake it will develop larger leaves. In its natural environment, this philodendron can reach 10 feet (3m.) high. It is a philodendron that has a fairly large root system, so you need to provide a container that is perhaps a little larger than for most other philodendrons. Given its rarity, it will probably be small when purchased, but you should know that if you make it happy you need to have enough room, because it will grow huge.
Philodendron 'Fuzzy Petiole'
The Philodendron 'Fuzzy Petiole', also called Philodendron nangaritense , lives up to its name. As the stems and leaves mature, they change appearance to become hairy red stems (covered with thick, unruly hairs) and more ribbed, larger leaves. Immature plants do not show pubescence. While the cordate (heart-shaped) leaves look rather plain when they grow, as the plant grows, they emerge dark pink, fading to dark green, and over time take on a leathery texture. surprising. The contrast between the green of the leaf and the red petiole is striking and makes this species a must-have for any collection. This is a philodendron that likes to crawl in its natural environment, so it may be interesting to give it the chance to do so. Otherwise, it is also possible to make it climb a stake or trellis to watch it flourish.
Philodendron squamiferum
Philodendron squamiferum , also called 'Hairy' Philodendron , has thick, leathery dark green foliage and pubescent stems covered with red hairs. This philodendron really changes its appearance as it grows. In the juvenile state, the leaf is virtually unlobed (oak leaf shape), but as the leaf gains size, up to about 12 to 18 in (30 to 45 cm), the lobes become more distinctive. The truly singular shape of the glossy leaves makes it a plant of choice for collectors. The Philodendron squamiferum has a rather average growth, is climbing and can reach almost 6 feet (1.8 m.). You can prune it without problem if you need to control its growth.
Philodendron warszewiczii ' Aurea Flavum'
Philodendron warszewiczii (Or Philodendron warscewiczii , also called the 'Snowflake Leaf' Philodendron ) has large sagittal leaves (arrow-shaped), semi-glossy, with an exotic appearance, being very segmented (their blade is cut into several segments). No two leaves are exactly the same as the other. In its natural environment, this philodendron frequently grows on rocks, but it is also found in epiphyte form as a climbing species. In its natural environment, its leaves can reach up to 30 in (78 cm) long and 24 in (60 cm) wide. THE warszewiczii is rather rapid growing, and becomes very large. This is to be expected if you adopt it.
THE Philodendron warszewiczii ' Aurea Flavum' is the golden version of this magnificent plant. It will add a lot of light to any decor. It requires the same care as the traditional version, but be sure to give it enough light to maintain that vibrant color (not too much sun which can burn the leaf).
As you will have noticed, philodendrons are fairly easy to care for plants and their great diversity makes them a plant of choice for any gardener. There is bound to be one that can be integrated into your decor. Which one do you choose?
