Types of Philodendron to Grow Indoors

Last updated on April 20th, 2024 at 12:06 pm

Philodendrons are fantastic indoor plants! With their lush leaves and adaptability to nearly any environment, these plants are a must-have. From the Heartleaf Philodendron to the Split-Leaf Philodendron and numerous other types of Philodendron, they don’t just elevate the look of your space—they also purify the air and thrive in various conditions. Whether you’re a newbie to plants or a seasoned enthusiast, philodendrons offer something perfect for everyone.

Nature has truly showcased its creativity through the diverse foliage of philodendron plants. These botanical wonders tend to thrive indoors, even in spaces with low light, and some varieties even boast colorful leaves.

Interestingly, “philodendron” translates to “tree of love.” With numerous species available, determining the ideal variety for your space is a challenging task. The two primary categories of philodendrons include climbing varieties and those that don’t climb. Beyond their growth patterns, these plants exhibit various leaf sizes, shapes, and occasionally, diverse leaf colors.

Most types of philodendron are great at surviving in less tropical conditions, but some can be a bit trickier to keep alive because they need specific amounts of water and light.

To assist you in selecting the ideal philodendron varieties for your home, we’ve listed 20 easy-to-grow types ideal for indoor cultivation. Additionally, we’ve included helpful tips for identifying these varieties, enabling you to understand their specific care requirements.

Types of Philodendron

1. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)

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Heartleaf Philodendron, a beloved classic, is known for its glossy, heart-shaped green leaves. Among the various types of philodendron, such as the Split-Leaf Philodendron and the Philodendron Brasil, its trailing vines make it an excellent choice for hanging baskets or as a cascading plant on shelves. This particular variety of philodendron is incredibly easy to care for, tolerating low-light conditions and sporadic watering. Its adaptability makes it an ideal plant for beginners or those leading busier lifestyles.

2. Split-leaf Philodendron (Philodendron bipinnatifidum)

This Philodendron, also known as Philodendron bipinnatifidum, stands out with its large and deeply lobed leaves resembling the shape of an oak leaf. Among the diverse types of philodendron, this variety makes a striking addition to any indoor space. Despite its potential to grow quite large, it remains relatively low-maintenance and thrives best in bright, indirect light. Keeping this beauty manageable is easily achieved through regular pruning, ensuring it remains a captivating point in any place.Courtesy for the image above belongs to Luz.

3. Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa)

Though often confused with these types of philodendron, the Monstera deliciosa, or Swiss Cheese Plant, is a close relative. Its iconic, fenestrated leaves give it a unique appearance that adds an exotic touch to interiors. This plant requires some space to sprawl as it matures, and it thrives in moderate to bright, indirect light, making it an eye-catching statement piece. Courtesy for the image above belongs to Bjorn.

4.  Philodendron Pink Princess (Philodendron erubescens)

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Among the diverse types of philodendrons, the Philodendron Pink Princess boasts a stunning and captivating appearance. This particular variety showcases elongated heart-shaped leaves in a mix of vibrant pinks and greens.

The color palette spans from deep, intense pinks to softer, creamier tones, interwoven with rich hunter greens and occasional lighter, grayish shades. While it grows as a vine, many enthusiasts opt to trim it to foster a fuller, bushier appearance instead of letting it trail.

5. Philodendron Brasil (Philodendron hederaceum ‘Brasil’)

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The Brasil variety, a striking type among different types of philodendrons, is a variegated cultivar derived from the Heartleaf Philodendron. It features vibrant green heart-shaped leaves adorned with bold yellow stripes.

This philodendron’s colorful foliage effortlessly enlivens any room and serves as an excellent addition to your indoor collection, infusing a splash of color into your indoor jungle. Thriving in medium-light conditions and requiring regular watering, this variety holds significant appeal for enthusiasts passionate about indoor plants.

6. Philodendron Prince of Orange (Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’)

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The Philodendron Prince of Orange, counted among the diverse types of philodendron, showcases remarkable features such as stunning coppery-orange new growth that matures into a deep green hue. This variety stands out as a captivating sight among indoor plants.

Thriving best in medium to bright indirect light and requiring regular watering to maintain consistently moist soil (without waterlogging), the Prince of Orange philodendron exhibits vibrant colors, making it an exquisite addition to any indoor collection.

7.  Blushing Philodendron (Philodendron erubescens)

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The Blushing Philodendron, recognized among the diverse types of philodendron as Philodendron erubescens, is a delightful houseplant. Its name comes from the reddish blush that appears on the undersides of its leaves when exposed to bright light. Sporting heart-shaped leaves, this variety adapts well to various indoor conditions, making it a charming addition to any indoor space. To thrive, it prefers moderate light and requires regular watering to maintain lightly moist soil.

8. Philodendron Gloriosum (Philodendron gloriosum)

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The Philodendron Gloriosum, belonging to the diverse types of philodendron, is a stunning plant known for its large, velvety heart-shaped leaves. Its leaves exhibit a rich, dark green color with prominent white veins, creating an eye-catching contrast. This variety thrives in medium to bright indirect light and prefers slightly moist soil. With its unique foliage, the Philodendron Gloriosum is an elegant addition to any indoor plant collection.

9. Philodendron Esmeraldense (Philodendron esmeraldense)

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The Philodendron Esmeraldense, among the diverse types of philodendron, is a captivating plant cherished for its glossy, emerald-green leaves. Its leaves have an elegant elongated shape, showcasing deep green hues that add a touch of sophistication to any space. This variety prefers moderate to bright indirect light and benefits from regular watering to maintain soil moisture. With its graceful foliage, the Philodendron Esmeraldense stands out as a beautiful choice for indoor plant enthusiasts.

10.  Philodendron Subhastatum (Philodendron subhastatum)

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The Philodendron Subhastatum, part of the diverse types of philodendron, is a striking plant appreciated for its elongated, arrow-shaped leaves. Its foliage boasts a glossy, deep green color, adding elegance to any indoor setting. Thriving in moderate to bright indirect light, this variety requires regular watering to maintain soil moisture. With its unique leaf shape and vibrant greenery, the Philodendron Subhastatum is a wonderful addition to any indoor collection of plants.

11.  Philodendron Lanciniatum (Philodendron lanciniatum)

The Philodendron Lanciniatum, categorized among the diverse types of philodendron, boasts truly unique leaves. They’re deeply lobed and take on a somewhat triangular appearance overall. The leaf structure is so distinctive that it often resembles three parts, akin to a “muzzle” with two horn-like protrusions, resembling a reindeer or, to some, an unusual butterfly.

The leaves’ smooth texture, intricate decorative veins, and their shiny, bright green color make this plant a fantastic addition to a well-lit, sophisticated, and serene room. Your guests will be fascinated when they visit your space adorned with this captivating variety of philodendrons.

12. Philodendron Lemon Lime (Philodendron hederaceum ‘Lemon-Lime’)

The Philodendron Lemon Lime, part of the various types of philodendron known as Philodendron hederaceum ‘Lemon-Lime’, is a captivating plant distinguished by its unique foliage. This variety stands out with leaves displaying a stunning lemon-lime color, lending a vibrant touch to indoor spaces. It thrives in moderate to bright indirect light and requires regular watering to maintain soil moisture. With its distinct coloration, the Philodendron Lemon Lime adds a cheerful charm to any indoor Philodendron collection. Courtesy for the image above belongs to Renee Grayson.

13. Philodendron Micans (Philodendron hederaceum var Hederaceum)

The Philodendron Micans, among the diverse types of philodendron as Philodendron hederaceum var. Hederaceum, is a charming plant admired for its velvety, heart-shaped leaves. This variety stands out with its lush, deep green foliage adorned with bronze undertones, creating a delightful contrast. It flourishes in moderate to bright indirect light and appreciates regular watering to maintain soil moisture. With its appealing foliage, the Philodendron Micans is a lovely addition to any indoor Philodendron collection.

14. Philodendron Birkin (Philodendron ‘Birkin’)

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The Philodendron Birkin is a beautiful type of philodendron known for its eye-catching variegated leaves. It features glossy green foliage adorned with creamy white stripes, giving it a unique and elegant look. This plant prefers moderate to bright indirect light and needs regular watering to keep the soil moist. With its captivating variegation, the Philodendron Birkin adds charm to any indoor Philodendron collection.

15. Philodendron Black Cardinal (Philodendron erubescens ‘Imperial Green’)

The Philodendron Black Cardinal is a captivating type of philodendron known for its deep, rich foliage. It features glossy, dark-green leaves that mature into a deep burgundy or blackish color. This plant prefers moderate to bright indirect light and needs regular watering to keep the soil moist. With its striking dark foliage, the Philodendron Black Cardinal adds an elegant touch to any indoor Philodendron collection.

16.Philodendron White Knight (Philodendron erubescens ‘white knight’)

The Philodendron White Knight is a beautiful type of philodendron known for its elegant foliage. It features leaves with a charming blend of green and white tones, creating a captivating appearance. This plant prefers moderate to bright indirect light and needs regular watering to keep the soil moist. With its unique coloration, the Philodendron White Knight adds beauty to any indoor Philodendron collection.

17. Tree Philodendron (Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum)

The Tree Philodendron, belonging to the diverse types of philodendron as Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, is a majestic plant recognized for its large, deeply lobed leaves. This variety boasts impressive foliage, resembling a tree with its broad, split leaves. It thrives in bright, indirect light and appreciates regular watering to maintain soil moisture. With its grand appearance, the Tree Philodendron stands out as an impressive addition to any indoor Philodendron collection.

18. Golden Goddess Philodendron (Philodendron ‘golden goddess’)

The Golden Goddess Philodendron, also known as Philodendron ‘Golden Goddess,’ typically grows to a height of around 2 to 3 feet indoors. Its leaves boast a vibrant golden-yellow color, adding a bright and striking touch to indoor spaces. The leaves have an attractive heart-shaped design with a glossy texture, creating an eye-catching appearance. This variety thrives in moderate to bright indirect light, making it essential to place it in well-lit areas for optimal growth and color vibrancy.

19. Philodendron Xanadu (Thaumatophyllum xanadu)

The Philodendron Xanadu, recognized among the various types of philodendron as Thaumatophyllum xanadu, is a striking plant admired for its lush and deeply lobed leaves. This variety showcases a compact and bushy growth habit, making it an appealing choice for indoor spaces. It thrives in moderate to bright indirect light and appreciates regular watering to maintain soil moisture. With its attractive foliage, the Philodendron Xanadu stands out as an attractive addition to any indoor collection of philodendrons.

20.  Philodendron Burle Marx (Philodendron ‘golden goddess’)

The Philodendron Burle Marx, also known as the Philodendron ‘Golden Goddess,’ typically grows to a height of around 2 to 3 feet. Its leaves are vibrant green and often display a striking golden hue, adding a bright and lively appearance to indoor spaces. The leaves have an attractive and eye-catching design, with a glossy texture and an elongated, heart-shaped outline. This variety thrives in moderate to bright indirect light, making it an ideal plant for well-lit indoor environments.

Philodendrons offer a diverse range of varieties suitable for indoor cultivation, each contributing unique aesthetics and air-purifying qualities to indoor spaces. Their adaptability to various light conditions and striking foliage make them a favored choice for both beginner and experienced plant enthusiasts. By exploring the different types and understanding their care needs, individuals can select philodendrons that suit their preferences, creating vibrant and welcoming indoor environments with ease.