Philodendron

Why is philodendron the right plant for your home? Simple question with a complex answer.  

Multiple shapes and Varieties are so interesting

My first introduction to this genus was from my dad who has a philodendron which he has taken care of for 40 + years. It is a plain green Pothos from his restaurant (Roy Rodgers) he owned in the 80’s (Of course I have a cutting). This heirloom story  highlights  how prolific they are and how easy to care for.

Dad’s Pothos cutting from a 40 year old plant

Philodendron is a large genus with  greater  than 400 species. Most commercial house plant varieties are very attractive for their interesting foliage. To keep it simple I think about these plants in two categories. One is the climbing variety. The others are the  interesting  foliage varieties which are more sculptural. 

lots of contrast

 Most varieties  at your local green house are climbing and you can grow them up totems/ poles. As these varieties grow up totems or poles the leaves can get much bigger.  If you want an indoor  jungle look this a very effective way of achieving that goal.

Golden pothos growing up a jute covered pole
Adult Golden Pothos growing up a tree in Key West

Equally as attractive are the more sculptural varieties. These are just lovely and coveted for their ability to give that Indoor jungle look. There are varieties that have beautiful colors like the Prince of orange and pink princess. Leaves with  interesting shapes and fenestrations.

Prince of orange Philodendron

Whatever your preference they are some of the best and easiest to care for varieties of house plants which is why they are perfect for your home.

Published by alchemyofplants

Hey. I'm A crazy plant person. Love nature, and have a deep interesting in biology, ecology and a lot of words that end in -ology.

Leave a comment

Design a site like this with WordPress.com
Get started