An Easy Guide to Philodendron Plant Care

Philodendron plants are a truly tropical plant as they originate from Central and South American Tropical countries with lush and humid forests, including Belize, Ecuador, Venezuela, Argentina, Mexico, and the Caribbean on islands like Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, and the West Indies. Because Philodendrons thrive in humid, tropical forests, they can be transplanted easily to tropical climates in Southeast Asia, like Thailand and Malaysia.

Their name comes from the Greek language and means “love of trees” with “philo” meaning love and “dendron” meaning trees, which is appropriate because their aerial root system lets them climb trees in the wild. This also makes them great houseplants as they can climb poles, stakes, and trellises.

With more than 480 species (some sources say 600) of Philodendron, plant enthusiasts can easily create a collection and never run out of new options to add. For homeowners that love biophilic design (combining elements of nature into a room or space), Philodendron can climb walls naturally creating a stunning juxtaposition or relaxing focal point in a living room, sun room, or on a patio.

If you are looking to buy your first Philodendron or want to know how to care for the ones in your collection, here’s everything you need to know, starting with their classifications, then plant care, and some of our staff favorites to help you pick the right one.

These tropical houseplants that are native to the Americas and the Caribbean have hundreds of species to discover. Although there is a massive variety, many share similar traits.

Although Philodendron is a moderate care level plant, meaning you’ll need to pay attention to them more than a Sansevieria (snake plants) or Pothos , but they’re still relatively easy to keep healthy and growing. Here’s how to water, provide enough light, and what to look for when repotting for complete Philodendron plant care.

Philodendrons need to be watered at least once a week, or bi-weekly if the top inch of soil is dry. Although it is a tropical plant from a humid environment, overwatering and waterlogged soil can lead to health issues, so let the potting mix dry out at least an inch from the top before watering again.

Philodendrons need bright, indirect sunlight that mimics their natural environment in a lush tropical forest growing up a tree. You don’t want to plant or set them in a hanging basket directly in front of a window or in direct sunlight on a porch, but you can place them in between windows, from a hook in your kitchen, or where they get nice ambient light for at least 5 hours per day.

Philodendrons need a high level of humidity to grow healthy at a range of 60% to 80%, so put them in a room with a humidifier, group them with other plants, or use a pebble tray under the pot if planted. Do not place them in front of a dehumidifier or an open vent that blows dry air.

The ideal temperature range for a Philodendron to grow is 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, making them perfect for most homes.

Philodendron’s leaves can turn yellow when they’re overwatered, and this leads to other health issues. They may also get leggy growth vs. a healthy spacing of foliage and stems. Here are some of the common signs and symptoms that your Philodendron may be unhealthy, so you can help it thrive.

Root rot is a result of overwatering your Philodendron plant, and it literally causes the roots in the pot to rot. A telltale sign of root rot is the leaves turning yellow. Dig up your Philodendron plant and look at the roots.

If they’re white, tan, or yellow, they’re healthy. If they’re brown or black and sometimes mushy, your plant likely has root rot. To fix the root rot, trim your Philodendron roots:

1. Trim any rotting or dead roots with sharp, sanitized shears

2. Treat the roots with a hydrogen peroxide solution (3 parts water to 1 part peroxide) to make sure all bacteria and other potential threats are washed away

3. Re-pot the Philodendron in a well-draining potting mix and ensure that there are holes in the bottom of the pot to allow for drainage if you tend to water too often or too much.

If the root rot was bad and smelled musky or moldy, use a plant-safe fungicide to help prevent the bacteria from coming back.

Leggy growth on a Philodendron is when the leaves are spaced out further than normal, the stems in between are longer than expected and may be mushy or thinner, and the leaves may be yellow or not as vibrant. In some cases the leaves may wilt.

Leggy growth can be a sign that your Philodendron is not getting enough sunlight, which explains why it is sprouting longer stems in between the leaves. Move your plant closer to the light source and make sure it is getting bright but indirect sunlight for at least 5 or 6 hours per day.

Three other causes of leggy growth are overwatering, too much fertilization with nitrogen, and improper room temperatures. These are less likely to happen. In the case of overwatering, make sure you check for root rot as well.

Philodendrons need well-draining potting mixes to ensure they get enough moisture, but their root systems don’t get drowned or develop root rot. Look for potting mixes with orchid bark, perlite, and vermiculite for drainage. Horticultural grade charcoal can be especially beneficial which is one of the ingredients in our dirt bags .

The proper time to add nutrients to your Philodendron plant’s potting mix is every 1 - 2 months during their growing seasons of spring and summer. You do not have to add nutrients in fall or winter as the plant will be in its dormant state.

There are more than 480 species of Philodendron, including those with colors, options that are more likely to bloom, different sizes, and variegation patterns. We can’t list all of them, but our staff has some favorites that we always want to buy when they come in stock or we see them.

Here are a few of the most popular, some rare, and showstoppers you may want to consider if you’re looking to buy a new Philodendron plant. And don’t forget to see what we currently have in stock. Click here to shop our selection of Philodendron .

Known for its unique, lobed leaves that emerge bright white before fading to mint green. This climbing variety loves a moss pole and bright, indirect light.

A collector favorite with dark green leaves splashed with bubblegum pink variegation. Its unpredictable coloring makes each leaf a surprise.

One of the rarest philodendrons, known for its long, narrow leaves with a drooping form and subtle ribbing. This collector's grail has a more upright, vining growth and prefers stable conditions.

A creeping variety with large, velvety green leaves and bold white veining. Unlike climbers, it grows horizontally and is best suited to wide pots or planters.

Also called the Heartleaf Philodendron, this is a classic trailing variety with small, heart-shaped leaves. It’s beginner-friendly and thrives in a range of light conditions.

Features long, velvety leaves with gold-toned veining. It’s a climber that becomes more dramatic as it matures.