The White Princess Philodendron is a stunning houseplant loved by collectors. It has beautiful heart-shaped leaves with white and green patterns. This plant grows up to 4 feet tall indoors and is part of the Araceae family.
Each leaf has unique white patches, and no two leaves are the same. New leaves may have a pink tint, and the white pattern stays stable. Its glossy, elegant leaves make it perfect for indoor spaces. The plant is rare because it grows slowly, which makes it highly sought after and valuable.
However, the White Princess Philodendron contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can be toxic if ingested. Always handle this plant carefully, especially around children and animals.
Understanding White Princess Philodendron Plant
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Philodendron White Princess |
| Botanical Name | Philodendron erubescens ‘White Princess’ |
| Family | Araceae |
| Plant Type | Tropical climbing plant |
| Origin | Cultivated hybrid, developed in Thailand |
| Hardiness Zones | 9-11 (USDA), but can be grown indoors year-round |
| Native Area | Hybrid, originally developed in Thailand |
| Mature Size | Up to 4 feet tall indoors |
| Growth Habit | Climbing plant with aerial roots |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to slow growth |
| Overall Shape | Vining, can climb or trail, more compact with regular pruning |
| Sun Exposure | Indirect light (bright but not direct) |
| Soil Type | Well-draining, peat-based mix |
| Soil pH | Slightly acidic (5.5 – 7.0) |
| Bloom Time | Rarely blooms indoors, typically in spring or summer |
| Flower Color | Green, white |
| Variegation Patterns | Sectoral (distinct sections of white and green), random patterns, some leaves almost completely white |
| Leaf Coloration | Primary colors: white and green, 30-50% white variegation, new leaves may have a pink tint |
| Leaf Shape and Texture | Heart-shaped, glossy, smooth, slightly thicker than non-variegated types, 6-10 inches long, pointed tips, wavy margins, strong veining |
| Toxicity | Toxic to people and pets if ingested (can cause mouth irritation, swelling, and discomfort) |
Ideal Growing Conditions for White Princess Philodendron
Light Requirements
The White Princess Philodendron likes bright, indirect light. It should get about 70-85% filtered light. Avoid direct sunlight because it can burn the leaves and cause them to lose their color. Place the plant near east or north-facing windows or about 3-5 feet from west-facing windows. If you don’t have enough natural light, you can use grow lights with 400-600 foot candles of light.
Temperature Needs
This plant grows best in moderate temperatures. During the day, keep the temperature between 65-80°F (18-27°C). At night, don’t let the temperature drop below 55°F (13°C). Keep it away from cold drafts from windows or air conditioners. Also, don’t place it near heating vents, as they can dry out the air.
Humidity Requirements
The White Princess Philodendron likes high humidity. It does best in 60-80% humidity, but at least 50% humidity is needed. To increase humidity, try placing a humidity tray with pebbles under the plant, using a humidifier, or misting the leaves in the morning. Grouping it with other tropical plants can also help keep the humidity up.
Soil Requirements
The best soil mix for the White Princess includes 40% orchid bark, 30% peat moss or coco coir, 20% perlite, and 10% charcoal. This mix helps the soil drain well while still holding some moisture. The soil should have a slightly acidic pH of 5.5-7.0. Make sure the soil has lots of organic matter and is chunky to help air reach the roots.
Other Tips
To avoid waterlogged roots, don’t let the soil stay wet for too long. Let the top layer of soil dry out between waterings. It’s also a good idea to replace the soil once a year to keep it fresh and healthy. Avoid heavy, compact soils, as they can prevent the roots from growing well.
How to Care for for White Princess Philodendron
Watering Requirements
Frequency: Water the White Princess Philodendron when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. Water every 7-10 days in the growing season. In winter, water every 14-21 days.
Technique: Use room temperature, filtered, or distilled water. Water until it flows out of the drainage holes. Never let the plant sit in water. Water in the morning.
Signs to Watch: Drooping leaves may mean underwatering. Yellow leaves can be a sign of overwatering. Brown tips might indicate mineral buildup.
Fertilizing Schedule
Growing Season: Feed the plant every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer (NPK 20-20-20). Dilute it to half strength. Apply to moist soil.
Dormant Season: Feed every 3 months using 1/4 strength fertilizer. Skip feeding if the plant isn’t growing much.
Best Practices: Flush the soil every 3 months to prevent salt buildup. Organic fertilizers like fish emulsion are good options. Stop fertilizing for 2-3 months after repotting.
Pruning Guidelines
Regular Maintenance: Remove yellow or damaged leaves at the base. Trim brown tips with clean scissors. For bushier growth, cut above leaf nodes.
Shape Management: Prune leggy stems in spring. Remove any reverting leaves. Clean scissors with alcohol between cuts.
Timing: Major pruning in early spring. Light pruning can happen year-round. Let cuts heal for 24 hours before watering.
Repotting Instructions
Frequency: Repot every 18-24 months for young plants, every 2-3 years for mature plants, or when roots circle the pot.
Process: Choose a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Use fresh, well-draining potting mix. Gently loosen the root ball and plant at the same depth as before.
Timing and Aftercare: Repot in spring or early summer. Keep in bright, indirect light. Water less for 1-2 weeks after repotting. Wait 4-6 weeks before fertilizing.
Signs Repotting is Needed: Roots growing through drainage holes, plant dries out quickly, growth slows, or pot feels light when lifted.
Propagating White Princess Philodendron
Sterilizing Tools and Choosing the Right Stem
To propagate your White Princess Philodendron, start by sterilizing your tools with 70% alcohol. Choose a healthy stem with 2-3 nodes. Spring or early summer is the best time to start. Look for stems with white variegation.
Preparing the Cutting
For cutting, pick a stem with 2-3 nodes. Try to find aerial roots if possible. Cut about 1/4 inch below a node using sharp scissors. Cut at a 45-degree angle, and make the cutting about 4-6 inches long. Remove the lower leaves and leave 2-3 leaves at the top. Let the cut end dry for 30 minutes.
Water Propagation Method
You can propagate in water or soil. In water, the roots are easy to see, and it’s a good method for beginners. Change the water every 3-4 days and keep the cutting in indirect light. Roots will appear in 2-4 weeks.
Soil Propagation Method
In soil, the roots grow stronger, but it’s harder to monitor. Use a well-draining mix and keep the soil moist with high humidity. Plant the nodes 1-2 inches deep.
Post-Propagation Care
After propagation, keep the plant in a warm spot between 70-80°F (21-27°C). The humidity should be 70-80%, and the plant should get bright, indirect light. Ensure the air has gentle circulation.
Water Propagation Aftercare
For water propagation, wait for roots to grow 2-3 inches. Change the water regularly and use a rooting hormone if desired. Once the roots are long enough, plant the cutting in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and cover it with a plastic bag to increase humidity.
Soil Propagation Aftercare
For soil propagation, mist the leaves daily to maintain humidity. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. After two weeks, remove the plastic cover gradually.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you notice root rot, remove the bad parts and let the cutting dry before starting again. For slow growth, check the temperature, humidity, and light levels. You can also use rooting hormone to help the cutting grow faster.
Timeline Expectations
It will take about 2-4 weeks for roots to start growing, 4-8 weeks for the roots to establish, 8-12 weeks for new growth, and 3-4 months for the plant to be fully established. Healthy roots will be white and firm, with new leaves starting to grow. The stem should stand firm, and the leaves should be vibrant.
Must Read: The Dracaena Plant
Philodendron White Princess Common Issues and Solutions
Leaf Problems
Yellowing Leaves: Too much water, poor drainage, root rot, or nutrient lack.
Solution: Check roots, water less, improve drainage, use balanced fertilizer, and remove yellow leaves.
Brown Tips/Edges: Low humidity, bad water, over-fertilizing, or too much sun.
Solution: Increase humidity, use filtered water, flush soil, and move away from direct sun.
Loss of Variegation: Not enough light, plant change, or poor nutrition.
Solution: Provide bright light, remove green leaves, fertilize regularly, and prune green sections.
Growth Issues
Stunted Growth: Poor light, crowded roots, lack of nutrients, or wrong temperature.
Solution: Ensure proper light, repot if needed, adjust fertilizer, and maintain 65-80°F temperature.
Leggy Growth: Not enough light, wrong pruning, or old growth.
Solution: Increase light, prune above nodes, rotate plants, and provide climbing support.
Root Problems
Root Rot: Overwatering, poor drainage, or compact soil.
Solution: Remove rotting roots, repot with fresh soil, improve drainage, water less, and use fungicide if needed.
Root Bound: Outgrown pot or not repotted.
Solution: Repot into a bigger pot, trim unhealthy roots, and check root size regularly.
Pest Problems
Spider Mites: Webbing and yellow leaves.
Solution: Increase humidity, use neem oil, insecticidal soap, and clean leaves.
Mealybugs: Cotton masses and sticky leaves.
Solution: Isolate the plant, wipe with alcohol, and use insecticide.
Scale Insects: Brown bumps and yellowing leaves.
Solution: Remove manually, use neem or horticultural oil, and inspect regularly.
Environmental Stress
Cold Damage: Black spots, wilting, and leaf drop.
Solution: Keep warm, away from drafts and AC, and use space heaters if needed.
Heat Stress: Crispy leaves, wilting, and curling.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, mist, and ensure good air circulation.
Prevention Tips
Regular Maintenance: Inspect weekly, clean leaves monthly, monitor soil moisture, and check roots.
Optimal Environment: Keep temperature steady, maintain humidity, ensure proper light, and good air flow.
Good Care: Avoid overwatering, use quality soil, fertilize regularly, and choose the right pot size.
White Princess vs White Knight Philodendron
| Feature | Philodendron White Princess | White Knight Philodendron |
|---|---|---|
| Variegation | White with occasional pink patches, splashy pattern | White with occasional large patches or splashy variegation |
| Leaf Shape | Narrow, longer, pointed leaves | Rounder leaves, smaller than White Wizard |
| Stem Color | Green with pink and white edges on petioles and cataphyll | Brownish-burgundy with white-edged cataphyll |
| Growth Habit | Climbing, needs support | Climbing, vining upward with support |
| Watering | Water when top 1-2 inches of soil is dry | Water when top 2-3 inches of soil is dry |
| Soil Preference | Well-draining, lightweight with peat and perlite | Well-draining, peat-based with perlite and bark |
| Repotting | Every 1-2 years or when roots outgrow the pot | Every 2-3 years or when roots are exposed |
| Price | More affordable | Usually more expensive |
| Rarity | Rare, but easier to find | Rare, harder to find |
| Unique Identifying Feature | Pink-edged stems with occasional pink variegation | Brownish-burgundy stems with white-edged cataphyll |
| Leaf Size | Smaller, more narrow than White Wizard | Smaller leaves, rounded shape compared to White Wizard |
| Variegation Consistency | Splashy, sometimes with pink, variable patterns | Less consistent, sometimes fully white or green leaves |
White Princess vs White Knight Philodendron: Which is Better for Beginners?
Both Philodendron White Princess and the White Knight Philodendron are excellent choices for beginners, but the White Princess Philodendron may be a bit easier to care for. Its adaptability to various conditions and relatively low maintenance requirements make it a great option for those new to plant care.
White Princess vs White Knight Philodendron: Which is Safe for Pets?
No, neither the Philodendron White Princess nor the White Knight Philodendron is safe for pets. Both plants contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can be toxic to pets if ingested, leading to oral pain, irritation, and other symptoms.
FAQs
What are the key visual differences between White Princess vs White Knight Philodendron?
White Princess: Has smaller, narrower leaves with striking white variegation and occasional hints of pink.
White Knight: Displays larger, broader leaves with white variegation and distinctive maroon stems.
White Princess vs White Knight Philodendron: Which is easy to care for?
Both are fairly easy to maintain, but the Philodendron White Princess may be a bit simpler for beginners due to its versatility in a variety of conditions and minimal upkeep requirements.
White Princess vs White Knight Philodendron: Which can be grown indoors?
Yes, both thrive as indoor plants in bright, indirect light, making them great choices for indoor gardening.
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