Philodendron Pink Princess (Philodendron erubescens)
The exquisite and highly coveted pink princess philodendron is on the top of many plant enthusiasts’ wish lists, and for good reason. Among plants, the pink princess is one-of-a-kind. It has dark green, heart-shaped leaves with bubblegum pink streaks.
It’s easy to confuse it with the Philodendron pink congo, but the pink princess’s variegation is stable because it happens naturally, while the pink congo’s is caused by chemicals that are injected into the leaves and usually goes back to green a few months after it’s bought.
Learning how to take care of your pink princess philodendron properly is the only way to make sure it keeps its bright pink color. Like most plants in the genus Philodendron, it’s easy to take care of this one.
Philodendron Pink Princess Care Tips & Growing Guide
The Philodendron Pink Princess is a beautiful and unique plant that is perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance to their home. While it is relatively easy to care for, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to ensure that your Pink Princess thrives.
First, this plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. If possible, place it near a window where it will receive plenty of light without being in direct sun.
Second, the Pink Princess likes to be kept moist but not wet. Allow the top inch or so of soil to dry out before watering again.
Finally, be sure to fertilize regularly during the growing season. With a little care, your Philodendron Pink Princess will thrive and add a touch of elegance to any room.
Water
Philodendrons like to be a little bit damp, but they should always have good drainage. I’ve found that my plant does best when I water it well and let the extra water drain away.
Then I let the soil’s surface dry out before I water it again. I let at least the top 1/2 inch to 1 inch dry out as much as I could. You can let the potting mix dry out even more, but try not to let it dry out completely.
On the other hand, you should never let your plant sit in water. If you water your plants where they are and then move them, make sure to get rid of any water that has been collected in the saucer or the cache pot they may be sitting in.
Light
The most important thing you can do to change how much variation your pink princess philodendron has is to give it enough light. Choose a spot that gets bright, indirect light for several hours.
The pink princess philodendron can also be grown indoors and can handle a few hours of direct light, which may help to make it more colorful. If there isn’t a place in your home that gets enough light, you should buy a grow light for this plant.
If the pink princess doesn’t get enough light, its leaves will quickly turn back to green, and it will lose its beautiful patterns.
Humidity And Temperature
The pink princess philodendron does especially in warm, humid places, but the average temperature and humidity in a home are fine for these tough plants. The best temperature for your plant is between 65 and 79 degrees Fahrenheit (18 and 26 degrees Celsius), and you shouldn’t let it get below 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
Feeding
Most people imagine Philodendron Pink Princesses as houseplants that sit in the pot and don’t need much attention. However, these beautiful plants can actually benefit from being fed on a regular basis. The best time to feed your Pink Princess is in the spring and summer when the plant is actively growing.
You can use either a liquid or granular fertilizer, and apply it according to the package directions. Be sure to water the plant thoroughly after feeding, as this will help the roots absorb the nutrients they need. With a little care and attention, your Philodendron Pink Princess will thrive and provide you with years of enjoyment.
Propagating
Propagating Philodendron Pink Princess is relatively easy to do and only requires a few supplies. First, you will need a clean, sharp knife. Cut a 4-6 inch stem from the main plant, making sure to include at least 2 leaves. Next, fill a glass or jar with water and place the stem in it. Put the glass in a bright, indirect light source and wait for roots to form.
This can take anywhere from 2-4 weeks. Once the roots are about an inch long, you can transplant them into potting soil. Be sure to keep the soil moist but not soggy, as too much water can cause the roots to rot. With a little patience, you will soon have a new Philodendron Pink Princess plant of your own.
Repotting
Most houseplants need to be repotted every one to two years, and the Philodendron Pink Princess is no exception. If your plant is looking leafy and healthy, it’s probably time for a new pot. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
First, choose a pot that is about 2-3 inches wider than the current pot. Make sure there are drainage holes in the bottom of the new pot.
Next, lightly dampen the roots of the plant. This will help to prevent them from drying out while you’re repotting.
Carefully remove the plant from its current pot and place it in the new pot. Fill in around the roots with fresh potting mix. Gently pat down the mix and water well.
Finally, place the plant in a spot with bright, indirect light and allow it to adjust to its new home for a week or so before moving it back to its regular spot. And that’s it! With just a little bit of effort, you can keep your Philodendron Pink Princess healthy and happy for years to come.
Toxicity
The Philodendron Pink Princess contains a chemical called oxalate, which can cause irritation and swelling of the throat and esophagus. In severe cases, oxalate poisoning can lead to difficulty breathing, kidney failure, and even death. If you suspect that someone has ingested a Philodendron Pink Princess plant, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. With proper care, the plant can be enjoyed safely by all.
Common Problems
One of the most common problems with Philodendron Pink Princesses is pests. Aphids, mealybugs, scale, and spider mites are all attracted to this plant. These pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow, brown, or black. They can also cause the plant to produce less oxygen and produce fewer flowers. If you suspect that your plant has pests, take it to a local nursery or greenhouse for treatment.
FAQs
Why Is Pink Princess Slow Growing?
It will grow more slowly than a similar plant that doesn’t have stripes because it has less chlorophyll.
How Tall Do Pink Princess Plants Grow?
With time and good care, they can grow to be several feet tall, but they need a moss pole, a wooden stake or plank, or something similar to hold them up.
Is Pink Princess Dangerous To Pets?
The ASPCA says that, like all aroid plants, Pink Princess is dangerous for dogs and cats because it has insoluble calcium oxalates.
Final Thoughts
Philodendron Pink Princess is a beautiful and easy-to-care-for houseplant that will brighten up any room. This plant is perfect for people who are new to gardening or those who don’t have a lot of time to spend caring for their plants. With just a little bit of water and light, Philodendron Pink Princess will thrive in your home.