34 Beautiful Philodendron Varieties You Need to Know About

There are around 450 different varieties of philodendrons in the world. These prominent tropical plants are divided into two groups based on their growth habits: climbing and upright. They come in a variety of colors, sizes, and textures. They’re also quite easy to cultivate, making them a popular houseplant choice for both novice and seasoned gardeners. Check out these magnificent philodendron varieties if you’re ready to enter into the world of philodendrons. They’ll make a great addition to your indoor garden.

Some of the younger, rarer, or more sought-after Philodendron cultivars can be difficult to obtain, but there are so many magnificent species and cultivars that lucky finds can be found just about anywhere. Part of the enjoyment is going on a search.

Remember that most Philodendron varieties require the same basic care; we’ll indicate any special requirements as we move through the list.

Care for Philodendrons

The ease with which Philodendrons may be cared for contributes to their popularity. Certain species may have unique requirements, although the majority have comparable demands. The door is open once you figure out how to keep one Philodendron happy.

Warm temperatures and open, well-draining soil that is maintained slightly damp but never sodden are essential for philodendron care. Before rewatering, let the top inch or two of soil dry off. Yellow leaves are a frequent symptom of overwatering, so keep an eye out for them.

The plant thrives in moderate to brilliant indirect light, but keep direct sunlight. Philodendrons with darker leaves may tolerate lower light levels, while variegated plants require more.

They prefer higher humidity as a tropical species, although most can adapt to ordinary circumstances. During the spring and summer growing seasons, little monthly feedings with a balanced fertilizer are usually sufficient.

Philodendrons are usually pest-resistant (but not immune). Keep them away from pets and children since they are harmful.

1. Philodendron billietiae

If you want long, narrow leaves, as many gardeners do, the Billietiae is one to consider. The rippling, thick leather leaves grow up to three feet long and ten inches broad. The contrast between the rich green leaves and the pale center and horizontal veins is striking.

The Billietiae aren’t finished yet! It also has long, pale orange stems that might fade with age or exposure to poor light. Early in life, the plant grows upright, then flips to sprawl mode as it matures and begins looking for a tree to climb. With proper Philodendron care, it flourishes.

Because this plant was just identified in 1995 and has only lately become popular, finding it might be tricky. There are also black and variegated varieties available.

2. Philodendron hastatum

The large, arrowhead-shaped leaves of this striking type may grow up to nine inches broad and over two feet long, and the vines can reach over ten feet long. The leaf has a metallic shine and is gray-green in color. It may be used both indoors and outdoors, and it can take over an empty area or blend in with others.

The Hastatum, while being a thirsty plant, is prone to root rot, so keep it in a tight pot and consider a terra cotta container that breathes. Early in the season, it reacts nicely to being squeezed back.

In the wild, the Philodendron Hastatum is an endangered Brazilian plant… However, because it is such a popular houseplant, its survival is not in jeopardy. It’s great to know that gardening contributes to animal protection!

The plant is incorrectly identified as a Domesticum, Glaucophyllum, Elongatum, or Hastifolium, and is commonly referred to as a Spadeleaf or Silver Sword Philodendron (and possibly others). There is a narrow-leaf variety as well as various variegated hybrids, such as Silver and ‘Lemon Lime.’

3. Philodendron Verrucosum

There is no other philodendron with such a wide range of hues, which should tell you everything.

The heart-shaped leaves appear to be normal until you notice the brownish veins and the lovely dark-green pattern on top of a light-green body. They appear to be fantastic.

On top of that, there’s even more color on the bottom. The plant takes on a yellowish hue in that area, causing it to SHINE when exposed to sunlight.

Aside from that, it’s a fairly simple species to cultivate. It thrives as long as sufficient humidity and some shade are provided. This includes gardens and containers.

4. Philodendron Bipennifolium

This big climber has very trippy-looking leaves that can grow to be over a foot long and have a horse-head appearance. It’s one of the most widespread and popular Philodendron varieties, valued for its unique leaf form.

To protect this somewhat fast-growing plant from flopping, stake it. You’ll need some room because it gets very enormous. Because the leaves actively move to the light, it’s important to rotate the plant on a regular basis to maintain it balanced.

The plant tends to droop down as it matures because the leaves are so enormous and the stems are so large. A stake or pole can be used to maintain the stems erect.

5. Philodendron Pink Princess

Red Leaf Philodendron (Philodendron erubescens) – It’s also known as the Pink Princess. The name originates from the hues, which range from dark crimson, purple, or black to a pale pink as it matures.

Another benefit of this foliage is that it thrives in the shadow. It won’t be an issue to keep it indoors as long as you can maintain a steady humidity level.

The pink variegation contrasts well with the dark green to deep burgundy foliage. With leaves that grow up to 8 inches long, the plant may climb or cascade from a hanging basket.

The Pink Princess is a slower-growing and more finicky Philodendron than most. It is sensitive to cold and requires strong indirect sunlight to maintain its lustrous appearance. Propagation is simple, but use material with good variegation: if produced from cuttings that lack color, the plant will return to all-green.

If you prefer the variegation look, the White Princess is even more popular. Approach with caution and an open wallet.
Be cautious that another plant, the Pink Congo, is treated to generate a transient pink hue; unscrupulous vendors have overcharged buyers for the imitation.

6. Philodendron Melanochrysum

Many collectors love the Melanochrysum, also known as the Black Gold Philodendron, and it’s one to consider if you like dark-leaved plants. The foliage is a deep, dark green – nearly black – with gold crystalline particles buried throughout the surface, resembling that of a giant Micans.

The plant is a creeper with short, round, reddish leaves as a juvenile. As the plant grows, the foliage darkens and turns velvety, finally reaching a length of two feet! The adult form is a climber who requires assistance to reach its full height of four feet or more.

Melanochrysum requires a little more care than regular Philodendron varieties and will not tolerate wet soil. It is not difficult to locate, but it is rather costly.

This philodendron is a little more finicky than others. The reason for this is because the plant demands drier soils and constant sun exposure to survive. Apart from that, it’s a climber and creeper that requires at least 6 feet of room to spread.

7. Philodendron hederaceum ‘micans’

It’s a heart-shaped philodendron, as the name implies.

This heart shape isn’t available on its own. The Heartleaf variety is a skilled climber and creeper that will cling to your home’s walls and other buildings as it develops.

Given how simple it is to grow, it is also one of the most popular varieties. To keep it growing, you’ll need to put in very little work. Indoors, you may reach heights of up to 6 feet in a tropical atmosphere (warm and damp).

Yes, it’s an outdoor variety that thrives in direct sunlight as well as a houseplant that thrives in indirect light.

When trailing, the Hederaceum’s fast-growing, heart-shaped leaves are two to three inches wide, but if allowed to climb, they can grow to be over eight inches wide. The leaves of juvenile versions may be lighter bronze-toned.

With tendrils that reach four or five feet indoors, the Heartleaf Philodendron is a lovely hanging plant. For a broader appearance, many individual plants are frequently planted together. They react nicely to being pruned back if they get lanky or “bald” on top, and they are quite easy to reproduce.

The Heartleaf Philodendron was once known as Scandens, Oxycardium, or Cordatum, and it is still sold under those names. There are several appealing varieties.

8. Philodendron Pedatum

This remarkable climbing plant, also known as an Oakleaf Philodendron, has green leaves that change shape as they mature: they start small and round, then develop deep lobes as they grow, eventually reaching up to nine inches long.

The Pedatum is an exotic climber with an open, airy structure that may reach heights of over three feet. Indoors, it’s hardy and evergreen, and it thrives with standard Philodendron maintenance. To help it breathe and fend off pests, clean its leaves on a regular basis, and the leaves will naturally shine.

9. Philodendron Tortum

Philodendron Bipinattifidum is another name for Philodendron Tortum. It belongs to the Arum family and is an evergreen plant.

The Philodendron Tortum is a multistemmed, bushy vine that is classified as an epiphyte. Because of their thin and lengthy appearance, Tortum leaves resemble a skeleton.

The plant possesses a number of air-purifying properties, including the ability to neutralize indoor pollutants including benzene, formaldehyde, and air.

10. Philodendron Mamei

It’s tough to find a Mamei philodendron to cultivate at home. However, if you can discover one in the wild, it is well worth the effort.

The light-green leaves and silvery splashes are quite appealing. These heart-shaped leaves are very small and veiny, which adds to their attractiveness. The gorgeous, extremely diverse silver leaf hues of this fantastic creeping Philodendron remain throughout the leaf’s lifecycle. The leaves have a beautiful rippling texture thanks to their thin, semi-glossy foliage that is wide and heart-shaped with vein indentations. The cataphylls are reddish-brown splotches.

The plant is not the largest, despite its beauty. It’s one of the tiniest philodendrons, only growing a height of 3 feet. Having saying that, it enjoys creeping and climbing.

11. Philodendron Acutifolium

Philodendron acutifolium K.Krause, a magnificent, rare Philodendron with elegantly ribbed leaf, is a scandent aroid. It has broad leaf blades that are somewhat coriaceous, shiny, and elongate-oblanceolate.

The primary lateral veins may be seen clearly below. At the base, the midrib is over 5 mm broad, with a pronounced attenuation upwards, recessed above and obviously apparent below. Secondary and tertiary veins are numerous, narrow, and run parallel to major veins.

12. Philodendron Burle Marx Fantasy

Burle Marx Philodendron Fantasy is a rare yet popular hybrid houseplant known for its beautiful leaves. Roberto Burle Marx, a Brazilian landscape artist and rainforest conservationist, is honored with the name of this natural plant. Fantasy is a tropical and perennial climber that is evergreen and slow-growing. It has lovely dark or grayish-green leaves with noticeable silvery gray venation.

13. Philodendron Burle Marx

This hardy favorite is a lesson in tough grace. The plant produces an abundance of shiny green, elongated paddle-shaped leaves with deep lobes… The leaf has delicate light veining and undulates softly throughout its length.

Its upright growth pattern produces two-foot-high, two-foot-wide clumps. In warmer climates, the Burle Marx is a hardy and prolific landscape groundcover, and it thrives indoors with standard Philodendron care.

The basic variety is inexpensive and simple to get by. The mosaic-patterned ‘Burle-Marx Fantasy,’ for example, is one of the most prized variegated hybrids.

14. Philodendron Panduriforme

Philodendron Panduriforme, with its arrow-shaped leaves, is a popular houseplant due to its stunning foliage. The species is native to the Amazon basin and may be found in nations throughout South America, including Peru, Brazil, Ecuador, and Colombia. When properly cared for, the climbing vine may reach a height of 6 to 8 feet. While maintaining the plant is quite straightforward, it is beneficial to be aware of a few pointers in order to keep it healthy.

Note that Philodendron panduriforme and Philodendron bipennifolium are frequently confused. You should be aware of the variances because the care instructions may alter significantly depending on which one you have.

Philodendron bipennifolium vs. panduriforme
Bipennifolium leaves are violin-shaped and more deeply divided than panduriforme leaves, which are arrow-shaped.

15. Philodendron Brandtianum

This variety, often known as the Silver-Striped philodendron, is precisely what the name implies. A few silver spots cover the leaf’s surface, creating nearly impossible-to-hate beauty. When combined with the dark-green body, it creates a stunning contrast.

This is one of the greatest houseplant varieties since it can withstand a long period of time inside in low-light settings.
But keep in mind that it’s also a small typeface. With its viny stems, it is an effective climber and creeper, but it seldom grows longer than 10 feet.

16. Philodendron Joepii

Only two of these rare specimens have ever been discovered in the wild. It’s possible that the plant is a natural hybrid, but no one knows for sure.

The most common feature of the foliage is that it starts off yellow, turns green, and eventually develops to be over two feet long. Each leaf, like an alien kite, floats on a single long, robust stem with a thin midsection and bulbous extremities, capped by a pair of leaves “antennae.”

The plant’s discoverer initially assumed it had been devoured by insects, however this is not the case: the appearance is natural. Collectors adore it! This ugliest of swans has made it huge.

17. Philodendron Grazielae

This rounded, fresh-faced variety is a unique spin on the traditional vining Heartleaf. The vibrant, bright green of its hefty leaves is exhilarating. On robust stems, the foliage remains modestly sized.

The plant’s centered growth pattern gives it a bushy appearance while young, but as it matures, the vines will need support. The Grazielae is easy to care for with standard Philodendron care, although it is slow to develop and does not withstand cold temperatures.

18. Philodendron Mayoi

The foliage is adorable, with many lobes protruding from the main stem, like algae. The Mayoi is tough to overlook since its leaves are still thick and have a lovely light green hue.

The nicest feature about this variety, though, is how easily it grows. It demands warm temperatures, same like other philodendrons, but it doesn’t mind growing indoors or outdoors as long as it has enough area to flourish.

The plant isn’t in the spotlight, but it’s a favorite among its owners: the Mayoi has a lot of personality in person. There is some disagreement as to whether it is extremely similar to or identical to the “Tahiti” Philodendron.

19. Philodendron Camposportoanum

This cute little shape-shifter is a Philodendron with a lot of personality for a desktop plant. Its juvenile leaves are black and velvety, and as they mature, they become more heart-shaped with extended back lobes. When fully developed, the plant develops extravagant three-lobed foliage that may reach about eight inches in length, giving it a completely distinct appearance.

The foliage has crimson tints mixed in with the green coloring, and the leaves may sparkle with magnificent pink highlights in brilliant light. The Camposportoanum enjoys climbing but prefers to remain small.

20. Philodendron Spiritus Sancti

The holy grail of plant ownership is the Philodendron Spiritus Sancti. If you believe Monstera Obliqua and Monstera Adansonii are rare, difficult to obtain, and expensive, consider Philodendron Spiritus Sanct.

The plant itself is discovered in Brazil’s state of Espirito Santo, near the town of Domingos Martins, and just a few plants are thought to remain in the wild. Plants in cultivation are likely to outnumber those in the wild.

21. Philodendron Cordatum

Philodendron cordatum (hederaceum) is a gorgeous trailing houseplant with emerald green leaves that are heart-shaped. It’s on a lot of people’s favorite houseplant lists since it’s easy to look after and can tolerate a variety of lighting conditions. It’s an epiphytic plant native to Central America and the Caribbean that may be seen growing up trees in the forest canopy in its natural environment.

The heart leaf, like other Philodendron plants, thrives in bright but indirect light. This plant, on the other hand, can thrive in low and medium light environments. In these conditions, growth will be slowed, but the plant should still be healthy!

22. Philodendron Gloriosum

This Columbian native is a sought-after trademark Philodendron with contrasting veins that highlight the plant’s massive heart-shaped leaves. In the wild, the velvety foliage may grow to be three feet wide, but it’s a much tamer inside.

Emerging leaves have delicate pink veins that disappear as the plant matures. Gloriosums have a creeping rhizome and grow low to the ground, giving them shorter, more tidy internodes than untamed Philodendrons with spread foliage or tangled tendrils.

It’s a simple plant to care for, but it can’t tolerate being in the cold or having wet feet. When young, it appears frail, but as it matures, it becomes stronger and more appealing… As a huge specimen, it’s stunning.

23. Philodendron Squamiferum

This uncommon Philodendron brings the jungle into your home. The robust, oak-leaf-style foliage has deep lobes and can grow to be about two feet long… Its long, “furry” stems are coated in a striking red bristle pattern.

Although it may grow the ceiling, the plant is a moderate grower that won’t soon take over a space. To keep your Squamiferum on show, give it a pole or trellis. It’s a low-maintenance plant that responds well to normal Philodendron care.

Squamiferums aren’t easy to come by, but they have a strong presence and provide a tropical backdrop for any collection.

24. Philodendron Patriciae

The last plant we’ve chosen is a show-stopper with huge, vertically dangling paddle leaves. The extended foliage is delicately ruffled with curved undulations and has a bright center vein. Each leaf may reach a length of four feet and can live up to three years.

Regular Philodendron care is beneficial to the Patriciae, although it is sensitive to being relocated. They prefer to be fed on a regular basis; nevertheless, extreme temperatures might bleach their leaves. It’s a climbing species that requires assistance and, like its price, has the potential to grow to enormous proportions.

If this plant could be located, it would presumably be in higher demand; if you do find one, your prize would most likely be sticker shock. Take cautious since long-leaved look-alikes may be replaced by inexperienced or shady vendors.

25. Philodendron Rugosum

With a heart-shaped structure and a light green tint, the foliage is basic. It has leathery leaves that enhance to its attractiveness and foliage density.

Itstands also notable for being a reliable climber and creeper. It is quite easy for the plant to creep over walls and other buildings.

It also comes in both indoor and outdoor varieties and may grow to be over 5 feet long.

26. Philodendron Lacerum

This attractive climber’s huge, semi-glossy leaves have many lobes along their margins, giving it a dazzling, fringed appearance. The leaves are gray-green in color and have thick veining indenting them. The undersides of the glossy leaves are darker.

The Lacerum, a Caribbean island native, can be an epiphyte or a hemiepiphyte, but it wants to live in a tree in either way. You should let this one to climb; it will want room.

Although the Lacerum prefers greater light than certain Philodendrons, it is quite easy to keep happy. Despite their rarity, they come at a fair price, at least for the time being.

27. Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange

Prince of Orange is an excellent name for this plant. It’s perfect because of the light orange and red tones. You may also appreciate the modest growth and lush foliage, which adds to its appeal.

It grows well indoors, believe it or not. However, because it will likely grow to be over 2 feet tall, you’ll have better luck maintaining it outside. It can still grow anywhere as long as you keep it warm at all times.

28. Philodendron Bipinnatifidum

The Split-Leaf variety of philodendron is a magnificent specimen. The leaves have a heart-shaped pattern with thin lobes, as well as a crispy texture and glossy appearance. Its dark green coloring and ability to grow thick foliage make it an excellent garden plant.

It is an upright variety in terms of growth. But it’s how far it can reach that’s most exciting: over 6 feet even inside.

29. Philodendron Florida Ghost

We’d all like to be as sought-after as this eye-catching hybrid. It produces beautifully variegated foliage that varies in color from a hazy, speckled green to a full-leaf creamy white. The petiole of the Ghost is crimson and coarsely textured, which adds to its appeal.

The plant is a shape-shifter, changing its appearance and color as it matures. Young leaves with irregular oval shapes generate shallow “arms” that grow into deeply cut lobes.

The Ghost is a resilient plant, but it requires more light to bring out its variegation than other Philodendrons. It’s often offered as a different variety dubbed Florida ‘Mint’ Ghost, but it’s just a regular Ghost cultivated in lesser light!

The plant is believed to be a hybrid between Philodendron Pedatum and Philodendron Squamiferum. Another famous Florida breed with large, green leaves is the Alba Beauty.

30. Philodendron Black Cardinal

If you like dark leaves, the Black Cardinal Philodendron will probably blow your mind – or at least try to. The stems glow crimson, and the big, pointed, paddle-shaped leaves are deep burgundy to practically black. The new foliage is pinkish in color and darkens with time.

Black Cardinals have a thick, bushy growth pattern and an upright growth habit. Standard Philodendron maintenance is required, but don’t over-light the plant; too much light will diminish the imposing leaf color.

This Philodendron has the exotic appearance of a rare variety, although it’s commonly accessible and will undoubtedly add to your collection’s depth. Variegated varieties are available, however they may miss the point of this plant.

31. Philodendron Pastazanum

Large, wide, heart-shaped leaves with light veins sit on long, elegant stalks in this lovely, low-growing, uncommon Philodendron. Its lush, textured leaves look like they belong on a much larger plant, and they may extend to a width of nearly a foot.

Red stem shoots emerge from the ground and unfurl into fully grown leaves. In order for its creeping rhizome to grow naturally, it needs a rectangular container.

The Silver Pastazanum is a variegated version of the Pastazanum. Both require standard Philodendron maintenance. Neither of these items is commonly available.

32. Philodendron Ring of Fire

Long, slender leaves with serrated “flaming” edges distinguish this interesting collector’s hybrid. Individual stems up to two feet long sprout from a central trunk bearing the foliage.

The leaves are variegated in various shades of orange, red, yellow, green, and cream or dazzling white, and the plant gets its name from the flickering look. It’s a slow-growing plant, and part of the fun is waiting for each unfurling leaf to appear.

This plant isn’t as difficult to get by as it is pricey… Tissue culture is increasing its availability, but it isn’t keeping up with demand.

33. Philodendron Jose Buono

Large paddle-shaped leaves emerge from the plant’s center on thick, succulent-like stalks in this popular hybrid. The dark green foliage has vivid splashes and large, chunky lime green portions.

The Jose Buono is a large plant that may grow to be 10 feet tall and wide outside, however it is only half that size indoors. Even in death, the plant’s leaves are beautiful: the faded leaves turn a bright yellow tint with flecks of green.

The Jose Buono is a hardy plant that just requires basic Philodendron maintenance. Its supply has lately improved, yet it is still a popular property with sky-high prices.

34. Philodendron Paraiso Verde

This is a one-of-a-kind variegated hybrid that has folks going insane. Its long, deeply lobed, paddle-shaped leaves are magnificent canvases of variegated green tones scattered in random patterns.

With its aerial roots and staggered leaves, the plant might appear a little haphazard, but it’s a lovely haphazard. The foliage varies in appearance: some leaves are mosaic or delicately mottled, while others have bands or splotches of color. Light and soil conditions have an impact on variegation.

The Paraiso Verde is a low-maintenance Philodendron — the hardest thing is finding one.