35 Of The Best Philodendron Types You Can Grow Indoors

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The term “Philodendron” refers to a large family of plants from the genus philodendron. It includes hundreds of different species that are closely related. These plants typically have beautiful, large, bright green leaves that give them a distinctive and unique appearance.

Because they help purify the air around them, and due to their water, light, and soil requirements, they are an excellent low-maintenance addition to a home, office, classroom, or any other indoor space. They are also a great plant for homes with children and pets, as philodendrons tend to have low to mild toxicity levels (with a few exceptions) and don’t attract major pests– win-win!

There are hundreds of known philodendron varieties that come from all around the world. Here are the best ones that you can grow at home or in any other indoor space to liven things up! Throughout the article, we’ll refer to each philodendron species by its scientific name as well as its common names. 

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Philodendron Camposportoanum (Campos)

Philodendron Camposportoanum, also known as Philodendron Campos, is a perennial known for its tri-lobed leaves. This small-growing Philodendron is a rare plant from the Araceae family with unique and beautiful “hammer leaves” that change shape and color as it matures.

Philodendron Camposportoanum is a tropical plant with dark velvety tiny leaves when young. As it grows, the leaves change dramatically, becoming heart-shaped with long black lobes. As it matures, the plant begins to resemble a tri-lobed leaf philodendron. This unusual plant can have up to three different leaves at any given time.

As the plant matures, the leaves take on a pink hue, assuming proper lighting is provided. The size of the leaves may also vary. When the plant is young, it has these striking dark green velvety leaves.

Speaking of leaves. Look at big daddy Philodendron Camposportoanum pic.twitter.com/VWYGa2pxO2

— that little bitch with a fro. (@obiwanbrenobi) November 24, 2020

Philodendron Black Cardinal

The Philodendron Black Cardinal plant, also known as the Blushing Philodendron or Philodendron erubescens ‘Black Cardinal,’ has oval dark green, almost black leaves and is known for its dramatic foliage that begins burgundy and matures to a deep black. Blushing Philodendron houseplants thrive near a window where the sun’s rays aren’t directly on their leaves.

The Black Cardinal, unlike most Philodendrons, is not a climber, so you don’t need to let it trail or train it on a moss pole.

The Blushing Philodendron is a member of the Philodendron genus and the Araceae family, and it is native to the frost-free forests of Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean. Philodendron Black Cardinal has become a popular indoor plant in recent years, thriving in most high-humidity households.

It was released in 1951 as part of Robert H. McColley’s hybridization program at Bamboo Nursery, Inc. in Orlando, Florida.

Rojo Congo Philodendron

The Rojo Congo is a perennial with beautiful foliage and showy flowers. This tropical plant from the Araceae family has lanceolate-shaped leaves that mature to a burgundy green color.

Osiecki was the first to hybridize this Rojo Congo Philodendron plant, which was registered/introduced in 2001. This hybrid of Philodendron Imperial Red and Philodendron Tatei thrives in high humidity and bright indirect light.

Philodendron Rojo Congo is a member of the Philodendron genus and the Araceae family. It is native to South American rainforests.

Blushing Philodendron Erubescens

Philodendron erubescens is a member of the Araceae family and the genus Philodendron. It is native to the rainforests of Central and South America. This Philodendron is a perennial that prefers to grow near a north-facing window. It’s an exotic houseplant because of its large glossy heart-shaped dark green and burgundy leaves.

In certain climates, Erubescens can be grown outside. Philodendron Erubescens grows best in hardiness zones 10-11.

This Philodendron plant, discovered in 1854 by K. Koch and Augustin, prefers low-to-moderate humidity and medium to bright indirect light.

Philodendron verrucosum (Ecuador Philodendron)

Philodendron verrucosum, also known as Ecuador Philodendron, is a member of the Araceae family and has heart-shaped velvety, dark-green leaves with bright light-green veining when mature. It is prized for its lovely, delicate foliage.

The Ecuador Philodendron is a fashionable perennial that thrives as a houseplant near an east or west-facing window. It is a hemiepiphyte in the wild, beginning as a seed sprouting in the tree canopy and eventually establishing deep roots in the soil.

While the majority of this article focuses on growing this Philodendron indoors, it can also be grown outdoors in hardiness zones 9-11.

Philodendron verrucosum is a plant in the genus Philodendron and the Araceae family. It is sourced from Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peruvian forests.

This lovely plant, which was discovered in 1884, prefers high humidity and bright indirect light.

Philodendron Moonlight

Philodendron Moonlight is also known as Lime Philodendron and Moonlight Philodendron (not to be confused with the Lemon Lime Philodendron). It is a perennial with chartreuse-green leaves that are spear-shaped.

The name of this tropical plant from the Araceae family comes from the way its foliage unfolds; luminous like the moon, its leaves appear white before turning green.

The Moonlight Philodendron is a member of the Araceae family and the genus Philodendron. It is derived from the rainforests of Central and South America. Philodendron Moonlight has become a popular indoor plant for indoor growers in recent years, owing to its low-maintenance requirements.

Philodendron White Knight

The Philodendron White Knight plant, also known as White Knight philodendron, has oval green, white, and purple leaves and is known for its lush green foliage with flecked and marbled white variegation. White Knight philodendron houseplants thrive in both bright indirect light and most low-light environments.

This Philodendron plant thrives in a humid climate with warm temperatures and bright indirect light.

Philodendron White Knight belongs to the Araceae family and the genus Philodendron. It comes from the South American rainforests.

Philodendron Hederaceum Lemon Lime

Philodendron hederaceum (Philodendron hederaceum) Lemon, also known as Lemon Lime Philodendron, Sweetheart Vine, and Lemon Lime Heartleaf Philodendron, is a trailing perennial with bright yellow to chartreuse foliage. This Araceae family tropical plant has heart-shaped, yellow-green leaves.

Although this article is primarily about indoor gardening, this Philodendron can also be grown outdoors in hardiness zones 9-11.

The Lemon Lime Philodendron is a member of the Araceae family and was originally found in the rainforests of Central and South America. In recent years, Philodendron Lemon Lime has become a popular indoor plant that can thrive in most homes, and it is typically regarded as a low-maintenance plant.

This popular plant, first catalogued by Tai Yam in 2004, is an excellent addition to any indoor grower’s collection.

Philodendron Burle Marx

Philodendron Burle Marx is also known as Philodendron Burle Marx, Mottled Imbe, and Philodendron Imbe.

It grows well indoors near a north-facing window – or anywhere with low or indirect light – and is considered a perennial. It is a popular fast-growing houseplant known for its shiny bright green, narrow, heart-shaped leaves and reddish stems.

This Philodendron plant isn’t just for indoors; it can also be grown outside in certain climates. To successfully grow Philodendron outside, you must live in hardiness zones 9-11. For the rest of us, you’re admiring this beauty from within!

This Philodendron plant was discovered by Roberto Burle Marx, who was also the first architect to introduce modernist landscape architecture to Brazil (he was a busy man!). This plant thrives in conditions of moderate humidity and bright indirect light.

Philodendron Imbe is a member of the genus Philodendron and the Araceae family. It is native to Brazil’s tropical jungles.

Philodendron hederaceum

Philodendron hederaceum, also known as Heartleaf philodendron, Sweetheart plant, and Philodendron micans, has heart-shaped dark green, light green, or bronze leaves and is notable for its heart-shaped emerald leaves.

Heartleaf philodendron houseplants thrive near east and north-facing windows, and they can survive in low-light conditions.

The Heartleaf philodendron is a species of Philodendron native to the rainforests of Central America and the Caribbean.

Captain William Bligh discovered this perennial climbing plant in 1793, and it makes an excellent addition to any home.

This Philodendron is frequently misidentified as a Pothos plant. The shine of the leaves is the main way to tell the difference. While Epipremnum (Pothos) has glossy leaves, Hederaceum has matte-green leaves and petioles that are “entire” rather than grooved.

Philodendron Scandens – “Heartleaf”

The Heartleaf philodendron gets its name from the distinctive shape of its leaves. They are generally a few inches long and resemble the shape of a heart. It also goes by the nickname “sweetheart plant”.

The leaves are numerous and can cover the entire stems, which can grow up to 4 feet or more. If you do let it grow rather than trim the stems, they can climb and cascade out of the pot in beautiful and unique patterns. It can even be trained to climb a pole with some simple plant ties. 

Philodendron Xanadu – “Winterbourn”

The Philodendron Xanadu is also known as the “Winterbourn” philodendron. It’s known for long, shiny, leathery green leaves, each with its own set of protruding lobes. As compared to the heartleaf, the Xanadu is not a climber, unlike other vining plants.

Instead, it is relatively compact and grows within a confined space, although it’s one of the larger plants in the philodendron family. It can grow up to 4 feet tall and 5 feet wide in ideal conditions. This is one of the non-pet-friendly plants on the list, so beware if you have a dog or cat at home. Make sure your pets don’t try to ingest the leaves or stems. 

You look beautiful in the night. Happy Monday! #thaumatophyllumxanadu #thaumatophyllumgoldenxanadu #thaumatophyllum #philodendronxanadu #philodendrongoldenxanadu #philodendron #aroids #araceae #garden #gardening #plantsmakepeoplehappy #plants #plantphotography pic.twitter.com/vVqYrnFvqe

— Bom Gomez (@PlantChaser) May 10, 2021

Philodendron Bipennifolium – “Fiddleleaf”

Fiddleleaf philodendron is naturally found deep in the tropical rainforests of countries in South America like Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. They thrive in warm climates and cannot survive in the cold. As the name suggests, their large leaves resemble a fiddle and generally grow to be about 8-12 inches long, although some can be up to 18 inches.

They grow glossy dark green leaves throughout their lifespan. Like other philodendrons, the fiddleleaf requires very little maintenance, meaning that you get to enjoy its natural beauty without the hassle of constant upkeep!

Split-Leaf Philodendron – “Swiss Cheese”

The split-leaf philodendron is found primarily throughout Central America, in places such as Belize, Guatemala, and Panama. Their leaf’s nickname, swiss cheese, comes from the distinctive holes and gaps that form throughout the middle of the leaf,  and is ofren confused with the Monstera Deliciosa. Scientists have theorized that the reason for the holes is to allow more light to pass through the surface of the leaf to reach the plant’s roots as well as the rest of the forest floor. This is especially helpful in low-light conditions such as forests that are shaded by a dense canopy. These holes generally grow larger proportionally with the size of the leaf and move towards the leaf’s edges. Eventually, they reach the edge and create finger-like outer sections on each leaf. 

Philodendron Hastatum – “Silver Sword”

The philodendron hastatum is native to Southeastern Brazil, and although it is a relatively common household garden plant, it has become endangered due to excessive deforestation and habitat destruction. One of the most easily noticeable things that set the Hastatum apart from other types of philodendron is the shape and color of its leaves. While many other philodendron varieties take on a deep, dark green color, the Hastatum shows a more blue/green/gray hue. Adding a silver sword to your indoor garden can add a nice touch of variety in terms of shape and color.  The leaves also have a long, skinny shape that comes to a point at the end furthest from the stem. 

Philodendron Pedatum – “Florida Ghost”

The Florida ghost features stems that are much longer than that of your typical philodendron. It loves to climb when given the chance. Most of its leaves appear green; however, before new leaves have fully matured, they will start a white, creamy color. As the maturation process takes place, they will turn greener and greener, until they are finally solid green at peak maturity. Since leaves grow one at a time, this process usually involves one white leaf among several fully mature leaves. They also resemble the shape of a ghost, with a wide bottom, skinny top, and a lobe on each side that resembles arms. 

Philodendron Gloriosum

The Philodendron Gloriosum is known for its larger leaves, which can grow up to 3 feet long and look like elephant ears! Be aware though, that as with other size estimates, this size is more commonly found in nature than in philodendron houseplants. Generally, each plant might only have a couple of leaves. Each leaf is green with yellow veins running through the middle. They do take a lot of time and patience to grow. Each leaf can take multiple months to open, and even longer to fully develop. However, these are so impressive looking that they are definitely worth the wait! 

Philodendron Tripartium

The philodendron tripartium, as the name may suggest, is also known as the three-lobe philodendron. Each stem diverges into three long, skinny leaf lobes that can be 6-12 inches long. As a climber, this indoor plant can reach heights of 3-5 feet tall with the proper care. 

Philodendron Bernardopazii

Yet another climber, the philodendron Bernardopazii will vine down towards the ground or climb nearby poles when given the chance. Its leaves are almost the size of that of the philodendron gloriosum, but take on a much longer and skinnier shape. The leaves have yellow veining throughout, which appears red on the underside of some leaves. It also may have red stems. Smaller versions of the plant carry the same leaf shape, but may only be a few inches long rather than a few feet. 

may 20th vs september 27th 🥺

-my baby philodendron majesty- pic.twitter.com/eU9XtKz7qv

— art momma ♡ (@creativebrat) September 27, 2021

Philodendron Majesty

The philodendron majesty looks vastly different from all of the other plants on this list. Instead of the typical green leaf color we have mentioned several times, the majesty’s leaves are a deep reddish-brown to black, depending on the age and individual characteristics of the specific plant. The stems and veins are also unique, and they appear mostly red on both the topside and underside of the leaf. Like many other varieties of philodendron, the majesty will climb if given the opportunity.

Philodendron Verrucosum

The uniqueness of the philodendron verrucosum is not in its color, but rather in its texture. That is, its leaves look similar to other philodendron species, but feel much different. Its leaf sheath is soft and velvety to the touch, rather than slick and glossy. In their natural habitat, these tropical plants will spend at least part of their lives attached to other trees, and their roots eventually reach the forest floor upon maturity of the plant. However, this does not impact the plant’s ability to be kept and maintained independently as a houseplant. 

Philodendron Prince of Orange

Leaves on the Philodendron prince of orange (predictably) start as a deep copper/rusted orange color and eventually progress to green as they reach full maturity. This gives the plant a wide array of colors throughout its life cycle. It can certainly liven up any indoor plant collection and add a splash of color. It comes in relatively small sizes and is compact, at only about 2 feet tall when fully grown. While the Prince of Orange is not a climber, is it still important to keep a careful eye on the plant in case it needs to be repotted. It can be a very fast grower. So much so, that it can double its size in less than a year under the right conditions. 

Philodendron Domesticum – “Lemon Lime” or “Spade Leaf”

The philodendron domesticum goes by two nicknames: Spade leaf, for the shape of its leaves, and lemon-lime, for the two main colors, green and yellow. This is one of the larger species of philodendron and requires quite a bit of space when fully grown. Its spade-shaped leaves can grow to be up to 24 inches long and 6-10 inches wide. With many leaves on each plant, it’s easy to see how this adds up quickly and takes up a considerable area! The yellow and green hues for which the plant is named aren’t always predictable in how or where they show up. On some plants, the yellow and green sections are neatly divided into entire leaves or along straight lines. However, some are much less predictable. The yellow and green sections appear splotchy or spotty. In still other variations of the plant, the leaves are mostly green with small yellow freckles dotting the body of the leaf. 

Philodendron Grazielae

The philodendron Grazielae is yet another climber that can grow several feet tall under the right conditions. In its natural rainforest habitat, it will often attach itself to a tree trunk. This plant looks similar to the heartleaf philodendron mentioned earlier in the article in terms of shape, color, and glossiness. The only difference is that the leaves on the Grazielae are smaller and more numerous. 

Philodendron Birkin

The philodendron Birkin is another great variety of philodendron to own. It is on the smaller side, with a maximum height of about 3 feet, and grows rather slowly. Check out our complete guide on growing and caring for philodendron Birkin for more. 

Philodendron Mamei

Silver Cloud, Quilted Silver Leaf, and Blotched Philodendron are all names for the Philodendron Mamei. It features heart-shaped leaves with dark green and silvery patterns and is well recognized for its remarkable variegation.

As a perennial in the Araceae family, this gorgeous plant thrives as a houseplant near an east or west-facing window.

In hardiness zones 9-11, the Philodendron Mamei has a good likelihood of survival outdoors.

The Silver Cloud is a member of the Philodendron genus and the Araceae family, and it is native to Ecuador’s rainforests.

Dr. Thomas B. Croat discovered this unusual plant in 1883, and it’s an excellent addition to the collection of any indoor gardener.

Philodendron goeldii

The Philodendron Goeldii, commonly known as the Finger Leaf and the Fun Bun (greatest name ever! ), is planted indoors for its spectacular spiraling stems. This tropical plant is a perennial that thrives in humidity, and it grows nicely as a houseplant in a north-facing window.

This Thaumatophyllum plant is more than simply a houseplant. It could be grown outside  in hardiness zones 9-10.

Finger Leaf is a member of the Thaumatophyllum genus, which is part of the Araceae family. It originated in the jungles of northern Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela.

Richard Spruce identified this fascinating plant in 1851, and it is a fantastic addition to any indoor grower’s collection – assuming they can give it the proper humidity.

According to notable botanists, the Thaumatophyllum genus was difficult to identify for many years since it was made up of only one species: Thaumatophyllum Spruceanum. Recent DNA investigations indicate that this plant’s evolutionary ancestry (together with other Philodendron species) deserves designation as a new genus distinct from Philodendron. As a result, its popular name has caused confusion.

Philodendron bipennifolium

Philodendron Bipennifolium, commonly known as Fiddleleaf Philodendron, is distinguished by its irregularly shaped and glossy green leaves, as well as its lobed foliage. Fiddleleaf Philodendron home plants thrive near windows that face north or east.

This unusual plant’s undeveloped condition is completely different from its mature state. Young leaves have a tiny oval shape and no lobes. The mature leaves have distinctive irregular lobes as they grow. This change in leaves gives them the appearance of a whole other plant kind.

The Fiddleleaf Philodendron belongs to the Araceae family and is a member of the Philodendron genus. This Philodendron species is native to the jungles of Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Argentina.

This magnificent plant is in short supply and is often believed to be somewhat pricey to purchase.

Golden Goddess Philodendron

Philodendron Golden Goddess is an Araceae plant that is also known as the Golden Goddess Philodendron and ‘Malay Gold.’

It’s a perennial that grows well in east-facing windows.
It’s well renowned for its stunning golden-yellow leaf.

To successfully grow Golden Goddess outside, you must live in hardiness zones 9-11.

This great discovery, which is usually considered quite inexpensive, was hybridized in Thailand. It provides fantastic value and beauty for the plant enthusiast in your home.

Philodendron spiritus sancti

Philodendron Spiritus-Sancti is part of the Araceae family and is also known as Philodendron Santa Leopoldina and Philodendron Sanctum.

Considered a year-round plant, it thrives near windows or doors that face east. Its sword-like foliage is distinctive, making it a truly exotic and scarce plant.

Not only is this Philodendron a houseplant, but it can also grow outside in certain climates. To grow Philodendron Spiritus-Sancti successfully outdoors, you need to live between hardiness zones 10-12.Philodendron Santa Leopoldina is a member of the genus Philodendron, part of the Araceae family. It originated in the Brazil rainforests, specifically the Brazilian state of Espirito Santo. In recent years, philodendron Spiritus-Sancti has become a popular indoor plant, thriving in most households that give it plenty of humidity.

George S. Bunting formally documented this endangered Philodendron species in 1987, but it had been written about as early as 1983.

Philodendron Rio

The Philodendron Rio, also known as Rio and ‘Heart-Shaped Philodendron Rio,’ is a perennial with pointed and thick leaves. This one-of-a-kind Araceae plant has heart-shaped, glossy green leaves with distinct cream/yellow stripes in the center.

While the focus of this post is on indoor gardening, this Philodendron may also be grown outside in hardiness zones 9-11.

This Philodendron plant was thought to be a natural descendant of Philodendron Brazil. It prefers moderate humidity and indirect light.

Philodendron brandtianum

Philodendron Brandtianum is a tropical, low-maintenance plant that can brighten up any indoor garden. This houseplant has a particular look and feel that indoor gardeners like.

The Silver Leaf Philodendron is a member of the Araceae family and belongs to the genus Philodendron. It was discovered in the jungles of Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, and parts of Colombia.

Philodendron giganteum

Philodendron Giganteum, often known as Giant Philo, is a perennial notable for its shiny green foliage and large stature. This enormous Araceae plant features big heart-shaped leaves that are a vivid splashy green.

It is indigenous to the woodlands and marshy regions of the Caribbean Islands.

This Philodendron plant enjoys high humidity and strong indirect light, although it can also endure low light levels.

Philodendron Painted Lady

The Philodendron Painted Lady, also known as Meconostigma, is a perennial with lovely leaves and distinctive vivid pink petioles. This Araceae tropical climbing plant has heart-shaped, deep green leaves with blotches and dots that appear to be finely brush-painted, thus the name.

This Philodendron variety is a cross between two Philodendrons: P. Erubescens Burgundy plant and P. Erubescens Emerald Queen plant.

If you can fulfill its water and humidity requirements, this Philodendron performs admirably as an indoor plant.

This plant, which is often considered pricey to purchase, was hybridized by Robert H. McColley, a famous plant breeder in the 1990s.

From late spring to mid-summer, it produces tiny, little cream and white blooms.

Caring for your Philodendron

Although they do vary slightly from one species to another, philodendrons are closely related, and therefore have similar maintenance requirements. Consider the following tips as a general guide that covers most philodendrons. For more specific information and care advice, be sure to look up your species of philodendron for the best results. 

Light

Regardless of the species, philodendron plants need to be in a location where they will receive plenty of indirect light. So, instead of directly on the window sill, try placing your plant in a place with soft light. An easy way to tell if your plant is getting too much bright light is to check the color of the leaves. If they are a deep green color, you are good to go! However, if they have started to turn yellow, you may want to relocate the plant to an area that receives less direct sunlight or try leaving the blinds or curtains drawn for the sunniest parts of the day. Conversely, you can also tell if your plant is getting too much light by looking at the spacing between the leaves. If the leaves are very spread apart with several inches between them, the amount of light your plant is receiving might be insufficient. If your plant is getting too little light, on the other hand, try moving it closer to a window. 

Read our Guide: The Best Grow Lights For Indoor Plants & Small Spaces

Temperature

Philodendrons do best in normal room temperature conditions – right around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. As long as you keep the plant in a temperature-controlled environment like a home or office, this should be easy to maintain. You’ll want to be aware, however, to keep the temperatures above 55 degrees Fahrenheit if you leave the house for an extended time. Dropping below 55 can cause your plant some serious problems, or even cause it to die. For this same reason, it’s best to not put your plant outside during excessively hot (above 80 Fahrenheit) or cold (below 55 Fahrenheit) temperatures. 

Water

Philodendron plants require a light watering every couple of days, or just enough to keep the top inch of soil from drying out. An easy way to check on this is to brush around some of the soil with your finger and check for moisture. Once you have found a schedule that keeps the top layer of soil moist, you should be able to easily stick to it without having to test the soil before each watering and ensure your plants have nice healthy roots.

Other Care Tips

In general, philodendron benefit from a light, nutrient-dense, balanced liquid fertilizer about every 1-2 months. This helps encourage growth, while some fertilizers will even help with warding off harmful pests. Additionally, be sure to choose a pot that is large enough for your plant. In general, pick one where the root ball of the plant has at least 2-3 inches in all directions to encourage the healthy growth of new roots. Beware that they do attract minor pests such as spider mites. 

Owning a Philodendron

With any philodendron on this list, you’ll have one of the most unique and beautiful container plants available anywhere. They truly make a fantastic addition to any greenhouse, home, or office. With all of the great varieties to choose from, you really can’t go wrong!

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