Complete guide to Philodendron White Princess Care and Growth

Philodendron ‘White Princess’ (Philodendron erubescens ‘White Princess’) is a popular cultivar of the Philodendron erubescens species, which is native to Colombia and the tropical regions of South America. This philodendron is also commonly known as White Princess philodendron and White Lady philodendron.

πŸ‘€ Overview

The Philodendron ‘White Princess’ is an attractive tropical plant admired for its beautiful variegated leaves. The leaves have an irregular oval shape and are colored dark green with white or light green irregular markings. It is an easy to care for houseplant that grows long trailing vines or can climb up a moss pole. With the right care, the White Princess philodendron can grow large showy leaves and add a dramatic look to indoor spaces.

πŸ“– Common namePhilodendron 'White Princess', None specific
πŸ”¬ Botanical namePhilodendron 'White Princess'
🫴 Care Difficulty levelModerate
☠️ ToxicityToxic to pets and humans (contains calcium oxalate crystals)
πŸ’¨ Air-purifying QualitiesModerate
🌱 Soil Type and pHWell-draining potting mix; slightly acidic to neutral
β˜€οΈ Sun ExposureBright, indirect light
πŸͺ EdibilityNot edible
🌴 Plant typeTropical Perennial
πŸƒ Foliage TypeEvergreen
🌿 Color of leavesGreen with striking white variegation
🌸 Flower colorNon-prominent in indoor cultivation
πŸ’₯ Bloom timeN/A
πŸš€ Growth SpeedModerate
πŸ“ Mature SizeUp to 2-3 feet indoors
πŸ”„ Life CyclePerennial
🌍 Hardiness zones10-11 (mostly grown indoors)
πŸ—ΊοΈ Native areaCultivated variety; not native to a specific region

πŸ’š Philodendron 'White Princess' Care

Philodendron ‘White Princess’ thrives with bright indirect light, consistent moisture, average room temperatures, and high humidity. Repotting every few years in a well-draining potting mix also keeps the plant healthy. Overall, this philodendron is quite forgiving if care needs are occasionally missed.

β˜€οΈ Light β˜€οΈ

The Philodendron ‘White Princess’ needs bright, indirect light to thrive and maintain its beautiful variegation. This plant should be placed in a spot that receives plenty of natural daylight but is protected from direct sun exposure.

Some key points on lighting for Philodendron ‘White Princess’:

  • Bright, indirect light is ideal. This plant thrives with light levels between 10,000-20,000 lux. Measure the light in your space with a light meter app.
  • East or west-facing windows are often perfect, providing gentle morning or afternoon sun. South-facing can work if gently filtered.
  • Direct sun will scorch the leaves. Always shield the plant from midday/afternoon direct sun.
  • Low light causes poor growth and fading of the white variegation.
  • Rotate the plant periodically for even sun exposure and growth on all sides.
  • Artificial lighting can supplement natural daylight. Use broad spectrum or grow lights. Position 12-18 inches above the plant.
  • Watch for signs of insufficient light: small leaves, long internodes, loss of variegation.
  • Also watch for signs of too much light: yellowing or browning leaves, leaf scorch. Adjust the lighting as needed.
  • Take care not to let any part of the plant touch cold window glass, as this can damage leaves.

Proper lighting is crucial for the Philodendron ‘White Princess’ to maintain its striking variegated foliage. Monitor the plant and adjust the lighting as needed. With the right amount of bright, indirect light, this beautiful plant will thrive in your home. Let the sunlight shine on your ‘White Princess’!

πŸ’§ Water

Philodendron ‘White Princess’ prefers soil that is evenly moist but not soggy. Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil become dry.

  • Check the soil moisture by inserting your finger into the top of the potting mix. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
  • Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot. This ensures the entire root zone is hydrated.
  • Allow excess water to drain completely from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. Never allow the plant to sit in water, as this can lead to root rot.
  • In general, water about once per week in spring and summer. Reduce frequency in fall and winter when growth slows.
  • Increase frequency if your home is very warm or dry. Decrease frequency if light levels are low.
  • Always water early in the day to allow the foliage to dry completely before night. Wet foliage at night can encourage disease.
  • Water with room temperature filtered water or rainwater. Tap water with added chlorine can damage the foliage.
  • Misting the leaves occasionally will increase humidity but does not replace thorough watering of the soil.
  • If leaves start to droop, it likely needs more frequent watering. Drooping leaves can also indicate overwatering, so check soil moisture before watering if drooping occurs.
  • Allow the potting mix to nearly dry out between waterings in winter when light levels and growth are reduced.

Providing the proper soil moisture by watering correctly is crucial to keeping your Philodendron ‘White Princess’ healthy and thriving indoors. Adjust your watering practices based on factors like season, light levels, and temperature. With the right moisture, this plant will reward you with stunning variegated foliage.

πŸͺ΄ Soil

The White Princess Philodendron needs a well-draining, porous soil mix to prevent root rot. The ideal soil pH is between 5.6-7, mildly acidic to neutral.

Here are some tips for the perfect soil mix:

  • Use a basic potting mix or compost as the base. This provides nutrients for healthy growth.
  • Add perlite or pumice at about 20-30% of the total mix. These help aerate the soil and improve drainage.
  • Include orchid bark or horticultural charcoal at 10-20% of the mix. These retain some moisture while still allowing excess water to drain.
  • Consider adding peat moss or coco coir at 10-20% to help retain some moisture and nutrients. But don’t overdo these as they can hold too much moisture.
  • Optional: mix in a small amount of worm castings for additional nutrients.
  • Optional: add activated charcoal to help absorb excess moisture and prevent root rot.

A good formula to start with is:

  • 40% potting mix or compost
  • 20% perlite or pumice
  • 15% orchid bark or charcoal
  • 15% peat moss or coco coir
  • 10% worm castings (optional)

The soil should retain some moisture but drain well to keep the roots healthy. Test the drainage by watering the mix thoroughly and letting it sit for 15 minutes. There should be no water pooling in the bottom, and the top layer should begin to dry out.

Re-pot the White Princess annually in fresh soil mix to provide the proper nutrients. Monitor the moisture level and water only when the top 1-2 inches become dry. Proper soil and watering practices are key to prevent root rot in this beauty!

🍼 Fertilizer

Apply a balanced houseplant fertilizer to provide nutrients and encourage healthy growth of your Philodendron ‘White Princess’.

  • Use a diluted liquid fertilizer during the active growing season (spring through summer).
  • Look for a formula labeled for foliage plants or houseplants with an NPK ratio like 20-20-20.
  • Dilute to half or quarter strength the recommended amount to avoid fertilizer burn.
  • Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
  • Stop fertilizing in fall and winter when growth naturally slows. Only fertilize if the plant shows signs of nutrient deficiencies.
  • For convenience, consider using a slow release fertilizer applied as directed on the package in spring. This provides nutrients over time.
  • Always apply fertilizer right after watering to allow uptake by the roots. Never fertilize a dry or stressed plant.
  • If using tap water, allow it to sit out overnight before mixing fertilizer to allow chlorine and fluorides to dissipate.
  • Excess fertilizer can cause leaf burn, brown tips, and poor growth. Flush the soil with clean water if this occurs.
  • Signs of nutrient deficiency include small leaves, yellowing, or stunted growth. Increase fertilizer strength if this persists.

With the right fertilizing regimen, your White Princess will be vibrant and healthy. Adjust amounts and frequency based on the plant’s needs and response.

🌑️ Temperature

The Philodendron ‘White Princess’ thrives in warm indoor temperatures between 65-80Β°F (18-27Β°C). Cooler temperatures below 60Β°F (15Β°C) can cause damage to leaves and slow growth.

  • This plant prefers average home and office temperatures. Avoid drafty areas.
  • Ideal temperature range is 65-80Β°F (18-27Β°C) during the day and above 60Β°F (15Β°C) at night.
  • Leaf damage can occur below 55Β°F (13Β°C).
  • Growth may slow below 60Β°F (15Β°C) or above 85Β°F (29Β°C).
  • Use a thermometer to monitor temperature in the plant’s location.
  • Move the plant to a warmer spot in winter if needed. Consider a heat mat below the pot.
  • Provide air circulation with a fan during hot summer weather.
  • Keep the plant away from hot and cold drafts from heating/cooling vents.
  • Move the plant to a shaded outdoor location in summer if temperatures indoors become too hot. Slowly transition the plant over a week or two.

Providing consistent warm temperatures is crucial for the White Princess Philodendron. Monitor the temperature around your plant and make adjustments as needed to keep it in its preferred range. With proper warmth, this tropical beauty will continue to grow and display its stunning variegated leaves.

πŸ’¦ Humidity

The Philodendron ‘White Princess’ thrives in relatively high humidity levels of 40-60%. Providing adequate humidity helps the plant grow lush, healthy leaves.

  • In dry indoor air, use a humidifier near the plant to increase moisture levels. Target 40-60% humidity.
  • Place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water. The evaporating water will provide a humid microclimate.
  • Mist the leaves frequently with a spray bottle of water to boost humidity temporarily.
  • Group plants together to create a natural humid environment through transpiration.
  • Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents which can dry the air.
  • Monitor humidity with a hygrometer. Make adjustments if levels fall below 40% or rise above 60%.
  • Low humidity causes browning leaf tips and margins. Increase humidity if this occurs.
  • High humidity encourages pests and diseases. Improve air circulation if moisture is excessive.
  • Consider creating a terrarium or greenhouse cabinet to provide consistent humidity levels.
  • A bathroom or kitchen often provides adequate ambient humidity for this plant.

Providing the right amount of environmental humidity will keep the leaves of your White Princess healthy and looking their best. Monitor moisture levels and make adjustments to maintain the 40-60% humidity this plant prefers. Proper humidity encourages lush tropical growth.

πŸ“ƒ Types of Philodendron 'White Princess'

There are a few different varieties of the Philodendron ‘White Princess’ to be aware of:

Standard

  • This is the most common type and the one typically referred to as ‘White Princess’.
  • It has green leaves with white or very light green irregular oval shapes on them.
  • The leaves are around 4-6 inches long.
  • This is a vining variety that can grow quite large.

Variegated

  • This variety has leaves that are variegated in shades of green, white, and cream.
  • The variegation follows the vein pattern on the leaves.
  • The leaves are around 5-7 inches long.
  • It is a vining variety as well but may grow slightly slower than the standard.

Miniature

  • A newer dwarf variety that has much smaller leaves, around 2-3 inches long.
  • The leaves have the same color pattern as the standard.
  • It has a compact, bushy growth habit instead of a vining habit.
  • Tends to grow to a maximum of 1-2 feet tall and wide.

Albo

  • This is an extremely rare, hard to find variety.
  • The leaves are almost completely white with just a touch of green along the veins.
  • Slow growing and lower light tolerant.
  • Can be more challenging to care for than other varieties.

The main types are standard, variegated, miniature, and albo – with differences in leaf size, color, and growth habit. The standard and variegated varieties are the most common and easiest to find. Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions

Blooming and Flowers

Philodendron ‘White Princess’ is not known for its flowers, as it is primarily grown for its foliage. However, it can produce small, inconspicuous flowers under the right conditions.

What do the flowers look like?

The flowers of Philodendron ‘White Princess’ are small and greenish-white in color. They are not showy and are often hidden by the foliage. The flowers are produced on a spadix, which is a spike-like structure that is surrounded by a modified leaf called a spathe.

When does it bloom?

Philodendron ‘White Princess’ can bloom at any time of the year, but it is most likely to produce flowers in the spring and summer months.

How to encourage blooming?

If you want to encourage your Philodendron ‘White Princess’ to bloom, you can try the following:

  • Provide bright, indirect light: Philodendrons need bright light to produce flowers, so make sure your plant is getting enough light.
  • Keep the soil moist: Philodendrons prefer consistently moist soil, so make sure you are watering your plant regularly.
  • Provide humidity: Philodendrons thrive in humid environments, so consider using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near your plant to increase humidity levels.
  • Fertilize regularly: Use a balanced fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season to provide your plant with the nutrients it needs to produce flowers.

What to do after blooming?

Once the flowers have faded, you can remove the spadix and spathe. This will help to keep your plant looking tidy and will also prevent the plant from putting energy into producing seeds.

πŸͺ΄ Potting and Repotting Philodendron 'White Princess'

Proper potting and repotting is important for the health and development of Philodendron ‘White Princess’. Follow these tips for success:

Choosing a Pot

  • Select a pot with drainage holes to prevent soggy soil.
  • Pot size should be 2-4 inches larger than the current root ball.
  • Heavy pots provide stability for vining varieties.
  • Decorative pots can be used if they have adequate drainage.

Potting Medium

  • Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a peat-based or bark-based blend.
  • You can amend the mix with perlite or orchid bark to improve drainage.
  • Soilless potting mixes are recommended over garden soil, which stays too wet.

When to Repot

  • Repot every 2-3 years in the spring, or when the roots have filled the pot.
  • Slow down watering for a week before repotting to reduce transplant shock.

Repotting Steps

  1. Remove the plant from its pot and loosen the root ball.
  2. Prune any circled or damaged roots.
  3. Place the plant in the new pot and fill with fresh potting mix.
  4. Water thoroughly after repotting to settle the soil.
  5. Stake or trellis vining varieties to provide support after reporting.

Post-Repotting Care

  • Keep the plant shaded for a few days while it adjusts to the new pot.
  • Resume normal watering after a week to establish new roots.
  • Avoid fertilizing for a month to prevent root burn.

Proper potting and repotting ensures your White Princess philodendron continues growing strong! Monitor its needs and repot before it becomes rootbound.

βœ‚οΈ Pruning Philodendron 'White Princess'

Pruning is an important part of caring for a Philodendron ‘White Princess’ plant. It helps maintain its shape and size, promotes healthy growth, and improves its appearance.

When to Prune

The best times to prune are:

  • Early spring before new growth begins
  • Mid-summer to remove excessive growth and shape the plant
  • Fall to remove damaged leaves and prepare for winter

Avoid pruning during winter dormancy.

What to Prune

  • Remove any dead, dying, or damaged leaves and stems
  • Trim off leggy stems to encourage bushier growth
  • Prune to control size and shape if the plant is getting too large
  • Cut back trailing vines if they become overly long

Pruning Tools

  • Sharp, clean shears or scissors
  • Sterilize tools before each use with isopropyl alcohol
  • Make cuts just above a node or leaf

After Pruning

  • Dispose of pruned parts – do not compost diseased foliage
  • Apply a fungicide to cut areas to prevent infection
  • Maintain proper watering and fertilization after pruning
  • Expect slower growth for a few weeks as the plant recovers

With proper technique, pruning encourages a full, healthy Philodendron ‘White Princess’. Avoid over-pruning, and only remove parts necessary to improve plant shape and vigor.

🌱 How to Propagate Philodendron 'White Princess'

Propagating new Philodendron ‘White Princess’ plants from cuttings is the best and easiest way to multiply your plant. Follow these steps for successful propagation:

Materials Needed

  • Healthy mother plant
  • Sharp, clean shears or knife
  • Propagation vessel – small pot, jar of water, or moist perlite/sphagnum moss
  • Well-draining potting mix (for potting cuttings)
  • Rooting hormone (optional)

Choosing Cuttings

  • Take 4-6 inch tip cuttings from a mature, healthy plant.
  • Use a sharp, sterile blade to make a smooth cut below a node.
  • Select cuttings with 2-3 nodes to increase chances of rooting.

Rooting the Cuttings

Water Method

  • Place the cutting in a jar of room temperature water.
  • Change the water every 2-3 days to prevent rotting.
  • Roots will emerge in 3-6 weeks.

Soil/Perlite Method

  • Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root growth.
  • Insert into a moist propagation mix like perlite, peat moss, or potting soil.
  • Cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.
  • Rooting takes 1-2 months.

Potting Up Rooted Cuttings

  • Gently remove from water or propagation medium.
  • Pot in a small container using well-draining houseplant soil.
  • Keep the newly potted plant warm, humid, and shaded while it establishes.

With proper care, propagated Philodendron ‘White Princess’ will grow quickly into mature, established plants! Take advantage of this easy, effective method for multiplying your plant collection.

πŸ› Common Pests

Philodendron ‘White Princess’ can be susceptible to a few common houseplant pests, especially when grown indoors. Being able to identify and control these pests is key to keeping your plant healthy.

Mealybugs

  • Appear as small white cottony masses on stems and leaves.
  • Can cause yellowing foliage and stunted growth if not treated.
  • Remove manually and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Scale Insects

  • Form hard brown or white lumps on the plant, usually on stems.
  • Can drain plant sap and weaken the plant over time.
  • Prune affected parts. Use alcohol to scrub off scales. Apply horticultural oil.

Aphids

  • Small pear-shaped insects that cluster on new growth and undersides of leaves.
  • Cause distorted, curled foliage. Secrete sticky honeydew.
  • Knock off with water or use insecticidal soap. Avoid over-fertilizing which attracts aphids.

Fungus Gnats

  • Tiny black flies that swarm around the soil. Larvae feed on roots.
  • Allow soil to dry out between waterings. Use yellow sticky traps. Apply BTI treatment.

Spider Mites

  • Tiny red or yellow mites that form webs on undersides of leaves.
  • Cause stippling damage and leaf loss if not treated.
  • Knock off with water. Apply insecticidal soap every 5-7 days for 2-3 weeks.

Isolate and treat infested plants quickly to prevent pests from spreading. Maintain proper growing conditions and inspect plants regularly to keep pests in check. Seek organic treatments first before stronger chemical options if needed.

🩺 Common Problems With Philodendron 'White Princess'

While Philodendron ‘White Princess’ is quite robust when cared for properly, it can encounter a few issues. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:

Yellowing Leaves

Causes:

  • Overwatering
  • Underwatering
  • Low humidity
  • Nutrient deficiency

Solutions:

  • Check soil moisture and water when just slightly dry
  • Increase humidity around plant
  • Apply balanced fertilizer monthly in growing season

Brown Leaf Tips

Causes:

  • Dry air
  • Tap water (fluoride/chlorine)
  • Salt buildup from fertilizer

Solutions:

  • Increase humidity
  • Use filtered or distilled water
  • Flush soil to remove fertilizer salts

Leaf Drop

Causes:

  • Temperature stress
  • Overwatering
  • Pests
  • Transplant shock

Solutions:

  • Move plant to suitable temperature range
  • Allow soil to dry out between waterings
  • Treat for pests if seen
  • Give extra care after repotting

Leggy Growth

Causes:

  • Insufficient light
  • Lack of pruning

Solutions:

  • Provide bright, indirect light
  • Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth

Monitor your plant closely and address issues promptly. Maintaining proper care is key to preventing most problems with this philodendron.

πŸ–ΌοΈ Display Ideas

The gorgeous variegated leaves of the Philodendron ‘White Princess’ make it a beautiful decorative plant. Here are some tips for showing it off:

Let it Trail

  • Allow the vining stems to trail down from a high shelf or top of a bookcase.
  • Looks great displayed in a hanging basket suspended from the ceiling.
  • Trailing down a tall plant stand makes a bold statement.

Use as a Centerpiece

  • Sit the pot in the middle of a dining room table or kitchen island.
  • Surround with complementary decor items like candles, fruit, or flower vases.
  • The unique leaves become the focal point.

Group with Other Plants

  • Combine with other trailing philodendrons or pothos plants for a lush look.
  • Contrast the variegated leaves with green foliage plants.
  • Incorporate into an indoor jungle theme with different leaf shapes and textures.

Give it a Moss Pole

  • Add a moss pole to the pot to support and showcase upright growth.
  • Attach new growth to the pole with plant ties or pins.
  • Creates a beautiful living wall as the philodendron climbs.

With its eye-catching leaves, the White Princess philodendron is sure to be the star of your plant display. Use its vining habit to create a spectacular indoor garden focal point.

πŸ‘ Pro Tips for Healthy Growth

Here are some expert tips and tricks to help your Philodendron ‘White Princess’ thrive:

  • Provide high humidity by misting the leaves daily or using a pebble tray. Higher humidity encourages larger, healthier leaves.
  • Give the plant a moss pole or trellis to climb. This allows the philodendron to grow upright rather than trail, promoting bigger leaves.
  • Prune off any all-green leaves that emerge. This forces the plant to put energy into producing beautifully variegated leaves.
  • Keep older leaves cleaned. Use a damp cloth to wipe them down and remove dust buildup. This allows the plant to photosynthesize efficiently.
  • Avoid direct sun which can burn the foliage. Bright, indirect light is best. Consider using a sheer curtain to filter harsh sunlight.
  • Repot frequently while the plant is young. Shift to a slightly larger pot each spring to allow rapid growth to maturity.
  • Fertilize more heavily in spring and summer during the active growing period. Reduce fertilizer in fall and winter.
  • Take stem tip cuttings to propagate and create new plants. Philodendrons root readily in water or soil.

With the proper care tips, your White Princess philodendron will thrive and grow into an eye-catching showpiece in your indoor garden!

❓ FAQ


How much light does a White Princess philodendron need?

Philodendron ‘White Princess’ does best in bright, indirect light. Some morning or late afternoon sun is tolerated, but avoid prolonged direct sunlight which can burn the leaves.

What is the ideal temperature range?

Ideal temperatures are 65-80Β°F during the day and 60-75Β°F at night. Avoid extreme cold or hot conditions.

How often should I water this philodendron?

Water thoroughly when the top inch or two of soil is dry. More frequent watering is needed in warmer months. Allow the soil to partially dry out between waterings in winter.

What kind of soil does this plant need?

Use a well-draining potting mix, such as one containing peat moss, perlite, bark chips, or coconut coir. Soilless mixes are recommended over standard potting soil.

How humid should I keep my White Princess?

Philodendrons prefer 40-60% humidity. Use a humidifier, pebble tray, or regular misting to increase moisture in the air if needed.

How often should I fertilize?

Fertilize monthly in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer, diluted by half. Reduce fertilizer applications in fall and winter.

Why are the leaves turning yellow?

Yellow leaves are usually caused by overwatering, low humidity, or insufficient light. Rule those issues out first, then check for pests or root rot if discoloration continues.

What pests should I look out for?

Common pests include aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and scale. Isolate and treat infested plants before pests can spread. Sticky traps and neem oil help with prevention.

Why is my philodendron growing long trailing stems?

Leggy growth happens from insufficient light. Provide bright indirect light to encourage full, compact growth. Prune back overgrown vines.

How can I propagate this plant?

Take 4-6 inch tip cuttings and root in water or a well-draining soil mix. New plants will sprout roots in a few weeks and can be potted up.

πŸ“ Final Thoughts

With its stunning variegated foliage, the Philodendron ‘White Princess’ makes a wonderful addition to any indoor plant collection. Following the growing tips throughout this guide will help ensure your success in caring for this beautiful vining aroid.

To summarize key points:

  • Provide bright, indirect light to maintain the foliage variegation. Some direct morning or evening sun is tolerated.
  • Use a well-draining potting mix and water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry. Increase humidity if the air is very dry.
  • Repot every 2-3 years in the spring. Prune off any leggy growth to encourage bushiness.
  • Fertilize monthly and watch for pests like spider mites or mealybugs. Isolate and treat any infestations right away.
  • Propagate new plants from stem tip cuttings rooted in water or damp soil.

With the proper growing conditions and care, the Philodendron ‘White Princess’ will thrive and grow for many years as an exceptionally beautiful houseplant. Its versatility allows for many creative uses in home decor. Enjoy watching your plant mature and fill out over time with the help of the guidance in this care guide.

πŸ“š Further Reading

πŸ“— Learn more about Philodendron ‘White Princess’

πŸ“š References

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