Just about anyone with an interest in houseplants will be familiar with the philodendron plant. While these perennials are generally known for their lush green foliage, there is one type that stands out ahead of the rest. Philodendron ‘Birkin’ is a spectacular variegated cultivar that anyone can grow with success.
What is a Philodendron ‘Birkin’?
Philodendron Birkin is a relatively new, and very popular houseplant. These striking aroids are slow-growing plants that are thought to reach about 3 feet (0.9m) tall and 2 feet (0.6m) wide when grown indoors. They have an upright growth form and do not vine like many other plants in their genus.
‘Birkin’ was first seen as a random mutation on another philodendron known as ‘Rojo Congo’. Since then it has been propagated to form a commonly available, but notoriously unstable cultivar of its own. The foliage typically has a dark green base color with incredible cream-white pinstripe variegations.
They do have a tendency to revert back to green or reddish-green if not managed, however. This can make for a very eye-catching specimen, and many growers actually welcome these variations.
Does Philodendron ‘Birkin’ Bloom?
You are highly unlikely to see this plant flower if grown indoors. Not only are the environmental conditions unsuitable, but they also take several years to reach flowering age. Fortunately, the foliage is the most attractive feature of these tropical plants, so the lack of flowers is no great loss.
Is Philodendron ‘Birkin’ Toxic?
Philodendron plants are considered mildly toxic. They contain calcium oxalates which are tiny crystal structures that can damage and irritate the lips, tongue, eyes, and mucous membranes.
You would have to ingest a lot of this plant to suffer very serious consequences but it is always better to be cautious. This means keeping the plant away from pets and children by growing it somewhere inaccessible to them.
Philodendron Birkin Plant Care Guide
The best way to figure out the needs of any plant is to consider where and how it grows in its natural habitat. In the case of this plant, that’s just not possible because its true heritage is a little uncertain.
This is because philodendron plants have been cross-bred frequently, with records of hybrids going back to the 1800s. Fortunately, philodendrons are generally easy plants to care for, and this plant is no exception!
How much sunlight does Philodendron ‘Birkin’ need?
These plants do best in bright indirect light or filtered sunlight. They require relatively high lighting since their leaves are variegated and therefore less efficient at photosynthesizing. A position near a large east or west-facing window would be a good placement for this plant, provided it does not receive direct sunshine.
Another great option would be to position the tropical plant near a sunny south-facing window that is screened by a sheer curtain to filter the light. Without a curtain, the harsh direct sunlight is likely to scorch the foliage.
How Often Should I Water Philodendron ‘Birkin’
You will need to water this plant when its growing medium has nearly dried out. This is easily gauged by feeling the soil, but you can also use a moisture meter for this job. Keep the soil dry between waterings.
Once the moist soil is almost completely dry, you can water the plant through until you see water draining out of the bottom of the container.
What is the Optimum Temperature and Humidity for Philodendron ‘Birkin’?
This plant will thrive in regular home temperatures if protected from cold draughts. Ideally, temperatures should not drop below about 55°F (13°C). The ideal range would be anywhere between about 75°F and 85°F (24-29°C) during the day and a little cooler at night.
They do not require high humidity, although they certainly do prefer it. If you live in a particularly dry climate, consider growing this philodendron species in a relatively humid part of the home like a bathroom or kitchen.
What is the Best Growing/Potting Media for Philodendron ‘Birkin’?
These plants do best in a coarse, fast-draining medium. They can be grown in regular potting soil but it may be wise to improve the drainage of the soil by mixing in a little perlite.
Do Philodendron ‘Birkins’ Need Fertilizer?
Fertilizing your Birkin plants can improve their growth rate and vigor. Applying a half-strength balanced fertilizer once a month will do no harm, but remember that less is often more in this regard.
As the growing season progresses, you can decrease the frequency to once every second month, especially when growth slows down during the colder months.
Do Philodendron ‘Birkins’ need Pruning?
These plants do not require frequent pruning. You will want to remove the odd unhealthy or damaged leaf to keep the plant looking at its best. Use a sharp, sterilized cutting tool for a clean cut that is less likely to suffer any infection.
As mentioned, this cultivar is pretty unstable. These plants often begin to revert back to unvariegated forms. This can make for a very interesting mixture of foliage colors, but you may wish to prune the plant back to discourage reversion.
Common Pests and Diseases of Philodendron ‘Birkin’
Philodendrons are typically very pest and disease resistant. They can be affected by many of the common insect pests, particularly if under stress, so make a habit of inspecting your plants from time to time for unwanted visitors.
Old philodendron birkin leaves may turn yellow as they reach the end of their functional life on the plant, but if any healthy growth begins to turn yellow, you will need to troubleshoot the cause of the problem. A common cause is root rot, which happens when a plant is overwatered, especially if grown in a pot without drainage holes.
How to Propagate Philodendron ‘Birkin’
These plants are easy to propagate by stem cuttings. One popular method is to take a cutting that has developed aerial roots and set the node into water until it has developed fine roots. This can happen in just weeks, but the water should be replaced regularly to prevent the development of algae and keep the water clean.
FAQs
How much light do philodendron birkins need?
Philodendron Birkins thrive in bright, indirect light. They can tolerate lower light conditions but may exhibit slower growth and less variegation in low-light environments.
How often do you water a philodendron Birkin?
Water Philodendron Birkins when the top inch of soil feels dry. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Can philodendron Birkin survive in low light?
Yes, Philodendron Birkins can survive in low light but prefer bright, indirect light for optimal growth and variegation. In low-light conditions, they may exhibit slower growth and less vibrant foliage.
Why is my Birkin dying?
Several factors could cause a Philodendron Birkin to decline, including overwatering, underwatering, inadequate light, pest infestations, or poor soil drainage. Assess the plant’s care routine and growing conditions to identify and address any issues promptly.
Does philodendron Birkin like misting?
Philodendron Birkins appreciate increased humidity, so occasional misting can be beneficial, especially in drier environments or during the winter months when indoor air tends to be dry. However, avoid misting excessively, as overly wet foliage can promote fungal diseases.
Final thoughts
With its beautiful variegated dark green leaves, the philodendron birkin is a popular choice for indoor plant enthusiasts. By following these simple philodendron birkin care tips, you can ensure your plant thrives and brings a touch of the tropics to your home.
Remember, providing bright indirect light, maintaining consistent moisture, and keeping the temperature warm will keep your philodendron birkin happy and healthy.
See more philodendron types you can grow.
*image by [email protected]/depositphotos
