Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ is an eye-catching house plant with lush, dark green, waxy leaves boldly variegated with bubble-gum-pink. Philodendron is a popular and easy-to-grow plant for the home that gives all-year foliage interest with versatile growth that can either trail or climb, and ‘Pink Princess’ is a new and unusual variety. The glossy evergreen leaves are heart-shaped, giving rise to its other name of ‘sweetheart plant’. ‘Pink Princess’ philodendron slowly reaches a maximum height of 1.5m and spread of 1.2m if given a moss pole to climb up. Alternatively, pinch out the growth regularly to grow ‘Pink Princess’ as a bushy or trailing house plant. Note that philodendron is toxic to humans and animals and can cause skin irritation, so take care when handling.
How to grow Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’
Grow ‘Pink Princess’ philodendron in a warm, humid room with good light, away from direct sunlight, draughts, and radiators. Water regularly so the compost stays damp but not waterlogged, and raise humidity if the room is dry. Feed once a month in spring and summer.
Where to grow Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’
Correct siting is key to getting the best pink colouring from Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’. Place it in a spot which has good levels of bright light but avoid direct sunlight in summer, which could scorch the leaves. If the leaves of your Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ turn burgundy, this usually indicates a lack of good light, and the brighter pink colouring will return once the plant is moved. The optimum room temperature is 18֯-24֯ºC, but ‘Pink Princess’ tolerates cooler temperatures for short periods, no lower than 12֯ºC.
How to plant Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’
Newly-bought plants are usually fine in the same pot for at least the first growing season but check to see if the plant appears unbalanced and top heavy. While Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ copes well with being root-bound to a certain extent, if the roots are very congested it’s best potted on. Transplant into the next size of container, in spring, using a peat-free potting compost suitable for house plants. Water gently but thoroughly immediately afterwards, to settle the compost around the roots. Allow any excess water to drain.
How to care for Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’
‘Pink Princess’ is an easy house plant to care for. Water regularly to keep the compost moist, taking care not to over-water, especially during winter, and ensure the pot is never left sitting in water. Feed monthly from March to September. Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ does best in a humid atmosphere, such as a bathroom or kitchen. In drier rooms you can stand the pot on a tray of pebbles with water sitting just below the top of the pebbles, so the water evaporates into the room to increase humidity. Misting the foliage daily with a fine spray will also help to improve humidity.
How to prune Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’
If the plant is outgrowing its site, lightly pinch out or trim back the young growth, as required.
How to propagate Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’
Philodendron is not an easy plant to propagate but can be done from cuttings. The best time to do this is in early summer. Use a sharp knife to remove young, healthy sections of stem, dip them in rooting hormone, and push into gritty compost in in a heated, lidded propagator.
Pests and diseases
Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ is generally free of pests and diseases. Problems that may occur usually relate to care: yellowing of older leaves are a sign of overwatering, while brown leaf tips show the plant has become too dry.
Advice on buying Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’
- Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ is fairly readily available and reasonably priced
- Plants may be available in two or three different sizes, so you have a choice of paying more for immediate impact or waiting a year or two for a smaller plant to grow
- Always check plants for signs of damage or disease before buying
