The ‘Pink Princess’ philodendron is one of the most colorful of all the popular aroid houseplants. These dazzling plants are relatively easy to care for, and with the right knowledge, you’ll have no trouble growing philodendron on your own.
What is a ‘Pink Princess’ Philodendron?
‘Pink Princess’ is a very popular cultivar of the blushing philodendron, P. erubescens. This species is native to rainforest environments in the South American country of Colombia. It is a vining plant that will look best if provided with a moss pole, trellis, or some other form of structure for support.
The colorful variegated heart shaped leaves of this plant are what sets it apart from all other philodendrons. Its foliage is a work of art, being randomly marked with splashes of color. The shades vary between deep green, dark purple, and bright pink, creating a stunning bubblegum pink variegation.
This is also why the Pink Princess Philodendron variety is so expensive as these plants are rare, beautiful and high in demand. Plus, it’s not easy to keep the mutation going and there is no guarantee that your Pink Princesses will turn out pink enough.
Does ‘Pink Princess’ Philodendron Bloom?
Philodendron plants do flower but don’t hold your breath on this plant flowering in your home. It takes them several years to reach flowering age, and even then, the conditions indoors do not usually promote flower production. Fortunately, this plant does not need flowers to impress with such showy foliage.
Is ‘Pink Princess’ Philodendron Toxic?
The only fault you can find with this plant is its toxic nature. Philodendrons are known to contain toxic compounds known as calcium oxalates.
The responsible grower will avoid placing this plant where it is accessible to children and pets. It is dangerous to ingest the plant, and gloves should be worn while working with this plant as a precaution as the sap has been known to irritate human skin.
How to Care for Philodendron Pink Princess
Caring for this plant is very similar to other types of vining philodendrons. They are very easy to maintain and generally trouble-free. Read on for more details
Sunlight
This plant does best when grown in bright indirect light. An example of an ideal placement would be behind a sheer curtain covering a sunny south-facing window, or towards the center of a well-lit room.
It can benefit from some direct sunlight in the early morning or late afternoon but must be protected from harsh midday sun that can scorch the leaves. If you find that your plant is losing its colorful pink variegation, you can take that as a sign that the plant would prefer a brighter position.
Water
Finding the perfect watering schedule for this pink philodendron plant is more trial and error than an exact science. There are many factors that affect the amount of water that your plant needs, so monitoring the moisture levels of the plant’s growing medium is the most reliable technique.
Your plant’s container should have drainage holes drilled into the bottom of it and the growing medium should be chunky and well-drained to avoid root rot. Simply water the plant until you see water draining out from the bottom of the container. Then feel the soil daily over the next few days, watering again once the soil has almost dried out. Repeat this process for a happy and healthy philodendron!
Temperature and Humidity
The optimum temperatures and humidity levels for this colorful plant are higher than you are likely to have in your home. Fortunately, philodendrons are very adaptable plants, and they actually thrive in average household temperatures, at least where the temperature remains above 60°F or so.
Growing the plant in a relatively warm and humid area of the house, like the kitchen or bathroom for example can certainly help. The only environments to really avoid are spots near a window where there may be an icy draught, or near a furnace or heater that will blow hot, dry air.
Growing/Potting Media
Like other philodendrons, this plant prefers a coarse, well draining soil with plenty of space between the particles to allow for good airflow. You can make up your own aroid growing medium by mixing potting soil with perlite and orchid bark.
Fertilizer
Fertilizing these tropical plants is not essential, but they will benefit from a light monthly application of a balanced liquid fertilizer. This is only necessary during the peak growing seasons of spring and summer and the plant can be rested during the cooler months.
Remember, less is more when fertilizing houseplants. Halving the recommended dosage is often a safe bet, and the occasional heavy watering is also a good idea to flush out any accumulated fertilizer.
Pruning
‘Pink Princess’ is a relatively slow-growing plant that needs little pruning. Use a sharp, sterilized cutting tool and make your cuts just above a node if you wish to trim the plant for size, neatness, or to remove unhealthy growth.
Common Pests and Plant Diseases
One of the great things about philodendrons (in case you aren’t already convinced), is their natural resistance to pests and diseases. They can be affected by many of the most common houseplant pests, however, so inspect your plant regularly for unwelcome visitors.
One of the biggest killers of philodendrons is overwatering. Be sure to grow this rare plant in a well-drained environment and allow the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings.
Propagate
Philodendrons tend to be easy to propagate, and this cultivar is no exception. Take stem cuttings that include at least one node with an aerial root and a healthy leaf. These cuttings strike well when planted in either water or soil.
FAQs
Is pink Princess philodendron hard to care for?
Pink Princess Philodendron can be moderately challenging to care for due to its specific requirements for humidity, light, and watering. It needs bright, indirect light and high humidity to thrive indoors.
How often should I water my pink Princess philodendron?
Water your Pink Princess Philodendron when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7-10 days. Adjust watering frequency based on factors like humidity levels, temperature, and the size of the pot.
Can you make a philodendron pink princess more pink?
The pink coloration in Pink Princess Philodendron leaves depends on several factors, including genetics, light intensity, and plant health. While you can’t change the genetics of the plant, providing optimal growing conditions with bright, indirect light can help maintain and even enhance its pink coloration. Additionally, regular pruning to remove non-pink leaves can encourage new growth with more intense pink hues.
Happy growing these indoor plants and enjoy looking at the pink leaves!
*image by aprichpluss3/depositphotos
