Philodendrons are some of the most popular houseplants, and for good reason! Loved for their bold foliage, adaptability, and easy care nature, philodendrons thrive in a wide range of indoor environments, making them ideal for city apartments, brownstones, and offices.

Whether you’re new to houseplants or expanding your collection, this guide covers everything you need to know about growing healthy philodendrons indoors.

Popular Philodendron Varieties

Philodendrons are a diverse group of tropical plants with hundreds of species and cultivars, making them some of the most versatile and collectible houseplants available. From trailing vines to upright statement plants, these are some of the most popular philodendron varieties for indoor growing:

• Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum): A classic, low-maintenance trailing plant with glossy, heart-shaped leaves that thrives in a wide range of light conditions.

• Philodendron Brasil: A colorful cultivar of the heartleaf philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum), featuring green leaves with vibrant yellow variegation. Excellent for shelves and hanging planters.

• Philodendron Micans: Known for its velvety texture and deep green leaves with bronze undertones, especially striking in bright, indirect light. Also a cultivar of Philodendron hederaceum.

• Philodendron Lemon Lime: Bright chartreuse foliage that adds a pop of color to indoor spaces and tolerates lower light better than many variegated plants.

• Philodendron Birkin: An upright, self-heading philodendron with dark green leaves and crisp white pinstripes, popular for modern interiors.

• Philodendron Rojo Congo: A bold, self-heading variety with broad, glossy leaves and reddish new growth.

• Philodendron Imperial Green: A compact, easy-care plant with large, solid green leaves that works well as a floor plant in apartments.

• Philodendron Pink Princess: Highly sought after for its dark foliage splashed with pink variegation. Best grown in bright, indirect light to maintain color.

• Philodendron White Knight / White Wizard / White Princess: Variegated varieties prized for their white marbling and dramatic contrast.

• Philodendron Gloriosum: A crawling philodendron with large, heart-shaped velvety leaves and prominent white veins, best suited for wide planters.

• Philodendron Selloum (Now Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum): Commonly sold as Philodendron selloum, this large, tree-like plant has deeply lobed leaves and a dramatic tropical presence. Botanically, it has been reclassified into the Thaumatophyllum genus, but care requirements remain the same. It performs best as a floor plant with bright, indirect light and room to grow.

Best Light for Philodendron

Philodendrons prefer bright, indirect light, but they are highly adaptable. Near an east- or north-facing window is ideal, while south- or west-facing windows should be filtered with sheer curtains.

• Low light: Growth will slow, and leaves may become smaller.

• Too much direct sun: Leaves may scorch or fade.

• Variegated varieties: Need brighter light to maintain their patterns.

Philodendrons are excellent choices for apartments with limited natural light.

How Often to Water a Philodendron Indoors

Water philodendrons when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry. Overwatering is more harmful than underwatering.

• Use a pot with drainage holes.

• Water thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain.

• Indoor environments with heating or air conditioning may cause soil to dry out faster, so always check moisture before watering.

When and How to Repot a Philodendron

Philodendrons typically need repotting every 1–2 years or when roots begin to circle the pot or emerge from drainage holes.

How to repot:

1. Choose a pot one size (~2") larger.

2. Use a well-draining indoor or all-purpose plant soil.

3. Gently loosen the roots before placing the plant in fresh soil.

4. Water lightly after repotting.

Spring and early summer are the best times to repot philodendrons.

Humidity and Temperature Needs for Philodendron

Philodendrons prefer moderate to high humidity, but most adapt well to average household levels.

• Ideal temperature range: 65–85°F

• Avoid cold drafts and heat vents.

• Placing plants near a humidifier can help during dry winters, but is not necessary for most Philodendron.

How To Progropogate a Philodendron

Philodendrons are easy to propagate through stem cuttings.

Steps:

1. Cut below a node with at least one leaf.

2. Place the cutting in water or moist soil.

3. Keep in bright, indirect light.

4. Roots usually form within 2–4 weeks.

Propagation is a great way to share plants or encourage fuller growth.

Common Philodendron Questions: FAQ

Should you bottom water philodendron?
Bottom watering is optional but helpful for evenly hydrating the soil. Place the pot in a shallow tray of water for 15–30 minutes, then allow it to drain fully.

What does an overwatered philodendron look like?
Signs of overwatering include:

• Yellowing leaves

• Soft or mushy stems

• Drooping despite wet soil

• Root rot odor

Always let the soil dry slightly between waterings.

How to tell if my philodendron is under watered?
Underwatered philodendrons may have:

• Drooping or curling leaves

• Crispy leaf edges

• Dry, compacted soil

A thorough watering usually helps the plant bounce back quickly.

How long can a Philodendron go without water?
Most philodendrons can go 1–2 weekswithout water, depending on light, temperature, and pot size. Larger plants in lower light can go longer than small plants in bright light.

Are Philodendrons toxic to pets?
Yes. Philodendrons are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep them out of reach of pets and children, or choose pet-safe plant alternatives if needed.

Looking to add a philodendron to your home? Visit Chelsea Garden Center to explore our curated selection of healthy, high-quality philodendrons perfect for indoor living. Our plant experts are always happy to help you choose the right variety and answer care questions.

Shop in-store or online and bring home effortless greenery today.