Philodendron Imperial Green - Philodendron

Philodendron Care

If it's elegance, variety, and lush tropical charm you're after, Philodendrons are the perfect choice. With heart-shaped, lobed, or deeply split leaves in rich shades of green or even variegated patterns, philodendrons bring an unmistakable jungle vibe to any space. They range from vining tabletop plants to bold floor specimens, making them ideal whether you're looking for something compact or a true statement piece. Some philodendrons climb, some trail, and some form upright bushes with massive leaves. With so many forms and species to explore, you’ll quickly find that one philodendron is never enough.

Our care guide will walk you through the most popular types, share essential growing tips, and help you troubleshoot any issues you might run into as your philodendron thrives.

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About Philodendrons

Philodendrons are one of the most beloved genera of tropical houseplants. Their name comes from the Greek words philo (love) and dendron (tree), a fitting description for these plants that climb or sprawl with lush, leafy affection. We especially love how philodendrons mature, developing more dramatic leaf splits, longer petioles, and larger size as they age. Whether you're growing a climbing Philodendron hederaceum, a bold Philodendron selloum, or a rare hybrid cultivar, you're in for a rewarding plant parenting experience.

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Philodendron Care Overview

• Light: Bright, indirect light to part shade (variegated types prefer more light)

• Soil: Well-drained, rich in organic matter

• Water: Keep evenly moist but allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings

• Fertilizer: Balanced 20-10-20 or 10-10-10 during the growing season

• Zones: 9–11 outdoors / anywhere indoors

• Goes Dormant? Mildly (growth slows in cooler temps)

• Winter Care: Reduce watering, avoid cold drafts, and maintain humidity

• Common Pests: Mealybugs, spider mites, aphids, thrips

• Toxic to pets? Yes

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Light

Philodendrons thrive in bright, indirect light, making them excellent indoor companions. Vining varieties like P. Brasil or Heartleaf can tolerate lower light but grow faster in brighter spots. Avoid harsh direct sun, which can scorch the leaves. Outdoors, filtered light or part shade is best.

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Soil

Philodendrons prefer well-draining, loose soil with plenty of organic material. A mix of potting soil, orchid bark, and perlite is ideal. This ensures moisture retention without soggy roots, which can cause rot.

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Water

Keep soil evenly moist during the growing season. Let the top inch dry out before watering again. In winter or cooler months, reduce watering slightly, but don’t let the plant dry out completely. These plants are forgiving, but consistently soggy soil will harm them.

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Fertilizer

Philodendrons benefit from a balanced fertilizer such as 20-10-20 or 10-10-10. Feed every 2–3 weeks during the spring and summer months. In fall and winter, fertilize less frequently as the plant’s growth naturally slows.

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Hardiness Zone

Philodendrons grow outdoors year-round in zones 9–11, but they shine as indoor plants anywhere. If you live outside of those zones, grow your philodendron in a container so it can be protected indoors when temperatures drop below 50°F.

To find your zone, search “your city + USDA hardiness zone.” This will help you determine whether your philodendron can grow outside year-round or should be kept indoors during cold months.

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Dormancy

While philodendrons don’t go fully dormant like some tropical plants, they slow down growth in winter. Don’t panic if new leaves take longer to unfurl or if growth pauses altogether—it’s just the plant’s way of resting. Come spring, longer days and warmer temps will jump-start new growth.

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Winter Care

As cooler months approach:

• Bring outdoor plants indoors or place in a protected area

• Keep away from cold windows or drafts

• Water less frequently, but don’t let the plant completely dry out

• Maintain humidity if your home gets dry—mist the leaves or use a humidifier

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Common Pests

Philodendrons may attract mealybugs, spider mites, aphids, or thrips, especially if conditions are warm and dry. Combat pests with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Dab visible bugs with a cotton swab dipped in neem oil or spray the whole plant weekly until pests are gone.

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Toxic to Pets

Philodendrons contain calcium oxalates, which can be toxic if ingested by cats or dogs. Symptoms include drooling, vomiting, and mouth irritation. Keep out of reach of curious pets.

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Troubleshooting

"Oh no, my philodendron dropped a leaf!"

It’s normal for philodendrons to shed older leaves as they grow. If new leaves are healthy, there’s no cause for concern. Just trim the old ones and give the plant consistent care—it will bounce back.

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"My Philodendron Doesn’t Look Like the Picture!"

Young philodendrons often look different from their mature form. For example, Philodendron bipinnatifidum starts with small leaves but grows large, split ones as it matures. Give your plant time—it will grow into its full beauty.

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After Arrival Care

Your philodendron may be a bit stressed after shipping. Here’s how to help it adjust:

• Unwrap immediately to let it breathe

• Acclimate slowly to brighter light after being in a dark box

• Avoid extreme temperatures during its transition

• Water thoroughly after unboxing if the soil is dry

• Pot into a slightly larger container to encourage root development

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What Size Pot Should I Use?

Start with a pot 1–2 inches larger than the current root ball. Repot into a larger container as the plant grows. Avoid going too large too quickly—gradual upsizing helps avoid overwatering issues.

A good rule of thumb:
📏 Half a gallon of soil per foot of mature plant height.

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Want help choosing the right philodendron variety or repotting tips tailored to your space? Just ask—I’m happy to help! 🌿