The pink princess philodendron is one of the most beautiful, sought-after houseplants. Its showy, variegated leaves display shades of green, white, and bright pink that develop as the plant matures. Caring properly for your pink princess (philodendron) will keep it healthy and vibrant. This article covers everything you need to successfully grow this philodendron variety indoors.
Pink Princess Philodendron – key facts
| Botanical Name | Philodendron erubescens ‘pink princess’ |
| Common Name | Philodendron pink princess, blushing philodendron |
| Family | Araceae |
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Mature Size | 4-5 ft. tall, 2-4 ft. wide |
| Sun Exposure | Partial |
| Soil Type | Loamy, moist but well-draining |
| Soil pH | Acidic |
| Bloom Time | Spring, summer |
| Flower Color | Green, white |
| Hardiness Zones | 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 11b |
| Native Area | South America |
Pink Princess Philodendron Care
Light Requirements
The pink princess philodendron grows best in bright, indirect light. East or west-facing windows work well. Some direct morning sun is ok, but limit afternoon direct sunlight which can scorch leaves. Supplement with a grow light if needed, keeping it 6-12 inches above the plant for 12-16 hours daily.
Water Requirements
Allow soil to partially dry out between waterings, then soak thoroughly. Water less in winter when growth slows. Yellow leaves are indicater of overwatering. These plants prefer slightly moist, well-draining soil.
Soil
Use a well-draining potting mix for philodendrons, or create your own using peat moss, perlite, and compost. Soil should retain some moisture but not get waterlogged.
Fertilizer
Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half. This gives the nutrients these fast-growing plants need. Stop fertilizing over winter.
Temperature & Humidity
Pink princess philodendrons grow well in average home temperatures, 60-80°F. High humidity is beneficial but not essential. Group plants together or use a pebble tray to boost moisture.
Pruning & Training
Pinch growing tips to encourage bushiness. Cut off dead or damaged leaves and stems at the base. Give it a moss pole, trellis or hanging basket to climb as it matures.
How to Repot a Pink Princess Philodendron
The pink princess philodendron is a beautiful houseplant cherished for its colorful variegated leaves. Though these plants like to be slightly root bound, they still need repotting every couple years in fresh soil. Follow this simple process for repotting your plant while minimizing transplant shock.
When to Repot
Repot young pink princess philodendrons when they become root bound, typically every 12-18 months. Mature plants can go 2-3 years between repotting. Signs it’s time include roots growing out drainage holes, poor drainage, or stunted growth. Ideally repot in spring.
Supplies Needed
- Pink princess philodendron
- Garden pot 2” wider than current pot
- Potting mix for aroids
- Gardening gloves
- Small gardening spade
Directions
- Remove plant from pot gently, handling base of stem. Loosen roots.
- Trim any circled or damaged roots with clean shears.
- Partially fill new pot with aroid mix. Form mound for plant.
- Set philodendron on mound so base sits 1 inch below rim.
- Fill in around roots and firm down lightly.
- Water thoroughly until it drains from holes. Allow to drain completely.
- Place plant in warm spot out of direct sun while it transitions.
Be patient with your pink princess after repotting. Leave it alone while roots establish, only watering when partly dry. Within a few weeks it should resume active growth. Repotting stimulates a gorgeous plant and keeps your philodendron healthy for years to come!
toxic to pets?
Yes, pink princess philodendrons are toxic to pets like cats and dogs if ingested.
All philodendron plants contain insoluble calcium oxalates in their tissues, which can cause oral irritation and swelling if chewed or eaten. You must be thinking How harmful is pothos for pets? well, Philodendrons are especially toxic to cats as the felines seem to enjoy chewing on the large, shapely leaves.
Signs of philodendron poisoning in pets include:
- Drooling, mouth pain, difficult swallowing
- Stomach upset, vomiting, lack of appetite
- Swelling or burning sensation in mouth and throat
While a nibble may just cause minor irritation, ingesting significant amounts of the plant can lead to more severe reactions requiring veterinary care. Dogs seem less inclined to consume these plants than cats.
To keep your furry friends safe, place philodendrons and other toxic plants out of reach. Keep floors and low shelves free from fallen leaves and flowers. You can also train pets to avoid chewing houseplants. Opt for artificial plants decorated with hot pepper powder or citrus scents which deter nibbling.
When adding a pink princess philodendron or any other inviting foliage to your indoor garden, ensure pets can’t access plants to prevent poisoning accidents. Recognizing signs of plant ingestion early on and seeking prompt veterinary treatment provides the best chance for your pet’s full recovery.
Propagating Pink Princess Philodendrons
The gorgeous variegated pink princess philodendron can be propagated from stem cuttings to multiply this desirable plant. Follow these simple tips for success.
When to Propagate
The best time to take cuttings is during the growing months of spring and summer. This gives cuttings the warmth and energy needed to form roots.
Getting a Cutting
- Use a sharp, sterile knife or shears
- Cut a stem right below a leaf node
- Optimal cutting size is 4-6 inches
- Remove lower leaves leaving just a few at the top
Rooting the Cutting
- Dip stem in rooting hormone to encourage root growth
- Plant cutting in moist propagation mix
- Cover pot with plastic bag to maintain humidity
- Place in bright, indirect light
Aftercare
- Keep soil moist but not saturated
- Watch for new growth in 2-3 weeks
- Roots form in 4-8 weeks
- Transplant into soil once well-rooted
With the right care, your new pink princess philodendron plant will establish quickly. Then you can enjoy this beautiful houseplant for years to come. The propagation process is very rewarding!
Common Problems With Pink Princess Philodendrons
The pink princess philodendron is a rising star in the houseplant world. But these beauties can suffer some common problems. Learn to recognize the issues and correct them to keep your plant healthy.
Drooping Leaves
Leaves that droop or wilt indicate the plant needs water. Feel the soil to confirm it is dried out before watering. Be sure the pot has drainage holes and well-draining soil that doesn’t get waterlogged.
Leaf Drop
If many leaves yellow and fall at once, the plant is getting too much or too little water. Stick to a consistent watering schedule based on soil dryness. Low humidity and temperature extremes can also cause leaf drop.
Sparse Foliage
Leggy growth with few leaves often means insufficient light. Give it very bright indirect light to encourage fullness. Turn the plant periodically so all sides get light exposure.
Loss of Variegation
When new leaves lose their pink hues, it signifies the plant needs more light. Move it closer to a bright window or supplement sun with grow lights to bring back vivid variegation.
Catch issues early before they worsen. Checking soil moisture, lighting, and pests routinely keeps your pink princess philodendron flourishing and looking its best!
Pest & Disease Control
Philodendrons can fall victim to several common houseplant pests if not carefully monitored. Catching infestations early makes them easier to treat.
Insect Pests
- Spider mites – Tiny arachnids that produce webs and suck juices from leaves and stems. Look for fine webs and speckling damage, to know more click here
- Mealybugs – Fluffy white cottony insects that attach to stems and leaves, to know more click here
- Scale insects – Small rounded brown bumps usually found on stems and undersides of leaves, to know more click here
Prevent and Control Pests:
- Keep leaves dust-free by wiping gently with a damp cloth
- Ensure good air flow around plants
- Isolate any infested plants
- Treat using insecticidal soaps, neem oil or horticultural oils
- Prune off heavily damaged growth
Diseases
- Bacteria and fungi – Leaf spots, blights, root rots
- Viruses – Mosaic virus, leaf deformation
Prevent Diseases:
- Avoid overhead watering and allowing plants to sit in moisture
- Sterilize sheers and knives between plants
- Keep humidity levels in check
- Improve airflow and avoid crowding plants
Catching problems early is key to saving your plant. Inspect regularly for any signs of pests or diseases. Taking prompt action at the first sign of trouble can get an infestation under control before major damage occurs. Maintain proper growing conditions and your philodendron will stay healthy for years to come!
With the right care, the pink princess philodendron makes a fabulous addition to any indoor plant collection. Pay attention to its light, water, soil, and environmental needs for optimal growth and leaf coloration. It will reward you with its showy foliage for years to come.
Buying a Pink Princess Philodendron
The eye-catching pink princess philodendron is gaining popularity for its colorful foliage.
Why Are Pink Princess Philodendrons So Expensive?
The pink princess philodendron is one of the most coveted indoor plants, demanding high prices thanks to its striking foliage and challenges to produce. Here’s an explanation of why this plant commands such steep pricing:
Slow Growth
The pink princess philodendron is exceptionally slow growing compared to other houseplants and even other philodendron varieties. It can take 3-5 years from a cutting to mature into a full plant with trademark vibrant variegation. The slow pace of turnover means lower supply.
Difficult Propagation
Propagating pink princesses by stem cuttings can be tricky. The delicate balance of hormones has to be just right to yield plants with gorgeous coloration. Even skilled growers report low success rates. This temperamental nature limits availability.
Rarity
While philodendron popularity booms, the pink princess variety remains relatively rare in circulation. This family is known for sporting random color mutations which propagate as named cultivars when deemed marketable. Supply struggles to keep pace with rising demand.
Temperamental Care
Caring for these plants presents challenges too. They require high humidity, warm temperatures, bright indirect sunlight, and excellent air circulation to thrive. Meeting such precise growing conditions further restricts supply.
For these reasons, pink princess philodendrons are far more expensive than other houseplants – but their scintillating foliage makes them highly coveted by plant collectors. Patience pays off when you finally score one of these beauties!
Here is what to look for when buying one of these beauties.
What to Look For
- Numerous leaves with vibrant pink variegation distributed throughout
- Solid green leaves indicate less light exposure and variegation potential
- White spotting on leaves along with pink
- Firm, perky leaves without brown tips or edges
- Established roots if potted or bright green stem if unrooted cutting
- No signs of pests – Check undersides of leaves
Where to Buy
- Online plant shops and Etsy sellers offer mail order plants when weather permits
- Big box home improvement stores often carry these trendy plants seasonally
- Local garden centers and plant nurseries for wider variety
Questions to Ask
- Will the plant be shipped bareroot or potted?
- What light exposure has plant been getting?
- Any guarantees on viability or variegation?
- Can I see pictures of the actual plants or parent plant?
Do your homework reading reviews if ordering online unseen. Buying from reputable sellers ensures you get a healthy, thriving pink princess for your collection. Paying attention to details like leaf color and pest signs means long-term enjoyment of this glorious houseplant.
Conclusion
With the right care, the pink princess philodendron makes a fabulous addition to any indoor plant collection. Pay attention to its light, water, soil, and environmental needs for optimal growth and leaf coloration. It will reward you with its showy foliage for years to come.
FAQs
How much light does a pink princess philodendron need?
Bright, indirect light is best, with some direct morning sun tolerated.
What causes pink princess leaves to turn green?
Insufficient light, allowing soil to completely dry out, and low humidity can cause leaves to lose pink variegation and turn greener.
Why is my pink princess philodendron losing leaves?
Over or under-watering and extremes in temperature or light often cause leaf drop.
How do I encourage my philodendron to be pink?
Ensure it gets bright indirect light, fertilize monthly during growing season, maintain warm temps and moderate humidity.
Should I mist my pink princess philodendron?
Occasionally misting leaves can boost a little extra humidity. But allow leaves to fully dry to avoid disease.
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