Philodendrons are forgiving, fast-growing foliage plants with hundreds of species. The most useful distinction for care is between climbing types such as heartleaf philodendron, which trail or climb a pole, and self-heading types such as the Birkin, which grow in an upright clump. This page covers light, watering, soil, support, propagation and the problems that come up most.
Philodendron at a glance
| Type | Houseplant |
|---|---|
| Season | Perennial |
| Sun | Bright indirect light |
| Plant spacing | 0 in |
| Row spacing | 0 in |
| Per square foot | 1 |
| Seed depth | At surface |
| Days to maturity | Cuttings root in about 2–4 weeks |
| How to start | Pot or repot philodendrons in spring or early summer, when they are actively growing. |
| Water | 1 in per week |
These are the same numbers our plant spacing, square foot and harvest date calculators use. See every crop in the plant database.
When to plant philodendron
Pot or repot philodendrons in spring or early summer, when they are actively growing. They are tropical plants from Central and South America, so keep them above about 15°C (60°F) and away from cold drafts. They can live outdoors in shade in frost-free climates; check your growing zone first.
How to plant philodendron
- Choose a pot with drainage. Pick one 2 to 5 cm wider than the root ball.
- Use a chunky, airy mix. Combine regular potting soil with orchid bark and perlite so roots get air.
- Set at the same depth. Keep the base of the stems level with the soil surface.
- Add support for climbers. A moss pole or trellis encourages larger leaves on climbing types.
- Water in and drain. Water until it runs out of the bottom, then empty the saucer.
Caring for philodendron
Give bright, indirect light. Philodendrons tolerate lower light but grow leggy there, and direct sun scorches leaves. Water when the top 2 to 3 cm (about an inch) of soil is dry, usually every 1 to 2 weeks, and less in winter. The overwatering checker can help if leaves are drooping or yellowing.
Feed monthly in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer at half strength. Wipe leaves to remove dust. Prune leggy vines just above a node to encourage branching. Repot every 1 to 2 years.
All philodendrons contain calcium oxalate crystals and are toxic to pets and people if eaten, so keep them out of reach.
Companion plants
| Grow nearby | Pothos, monstera, peace lily, snake plant, ZZ plant |
|---|---|
| Keep apart | Cacti and succulents that need dry, bright conditions |
Philodendrons pair well with other tropical foliage plants that like similar humidity and bright indirect light. Keep them away from dry-loving succulents. Check other pairings with the companion plant finder.
Common problems
| Problem | What you see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow leaves | Lower leaves turning yellow, often from overwatering | Let the top soil dry between waterings and check for root rot. See the yellow leaf identifier. |
| Drooping leaves | Leaves hang limp from thirst or soggy roots | Check the soil moisture before watering and adjust accordingly. |
| Brown leaf edges | Dry, crispy edges from low humidity or inconsistent watering | Water more regularly and group plants for humidity. |
| Leggy growth | Long gaps between leaves in low light | Move to brighter indirect light and prune back. |
| Spider mites | Fine webbing and stippled leaves in dry air | Rinse leaves and wipe with insecticidal soap. See the pest identifier. |
| Root rot | Black, mushy roots and a sour smell | Cut off rotted roots and repot in fresh, airy mix. |
Not sure what you are looking at? The plant problem identifier ranks likely causes from the symptoms you see.
When and how to harvest
Philodendrons are grown for foliage. Cuttings are the easiest way to make new plants: cut a stem just below a node with one or two leaves, then root it in water or moist potting mix. Roots usually form in 2 to 4 weeks, and the cutting can be potted once roots are 3 to 5 cm long.
Climbing types can reach 2 m (6 ft) or more indoors with support, while self-heading types such as Birkin stay compact at about 60 cm (2 ft).
Plan your philodendron
- Plant spacing calculator: how many plants fit your bed
- Planting calendar: sowing and transplant dates for your frost dates
- Frost dates by ZIP code: your last spring and first fall frost
- Harvest date calculator: when your crop will be ready
Frequently asked questions
How far apart should I plant philodendrons?
Space philodendrons 0 inches apart in rows 0 inches apart. In a square foot garden, plant 1 per square foot.
How deep do I plant cuttings?
Plant philodendrons at the same depth they grew before, with the base of the stems level with the soil surface.
How long do philodendrons take to grow?
Cuttings root in about 2 to 4 weeks and are ready to pot once roots reach 3 to 5 cm long.
How much water do philodendrons need?
About 1 inch of water a week, from rain and watering combined. Water when the top 2 to 3 cm of soil is dry, about every 1 to 2 weeks, less in winter.
How often should I water a philodendron?
Water when the top inch of soil is dry, usually every 1 to 2 weeks, and less often in winter.
Is philodendron toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes. It contains calcium oxalate crystals that irritate the mouth and stomach if chewed, so keep it out of reach of pets.