Philodendron plants are a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardens alike, thanks to their lush foliage and easy care. With over 400 species to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which type of philodendron to add to your collection. To help you choose, we’ve gathered 50 different types of philodendron plants to help you find the perfect one for your space.
Philodendron is the second-largest member of the family Araceae, with 489 species, and many undescribed species. Philodendrons are often grown as ornamental and indoor plants. They have an extremely diverse array of growth methods, such as epiphytic, hemiepiphytic, or terrestrial, and show a combination of these growth habits depending on the environment.
Philodendrons are native to the tropical Americas and the West Indies. They can be found in diverse habitats from northern Mexico to southern Brazil and the Caribbean islands, including humid tropical forests, swamps, river banks, roadsides, and rock outcrops. Philodendrons can grow in shady positions outdoors in mild climates and thrive in moist soils with high organic matter. They can also grow indoors, and they thrive in temperatures between 15 and 18°C (60-65°F).
Stem cuttings are the simplest and most successful propagation technique. They will put out new roots when in pots of sand and peat moss mixtures or in water. Hybridizing philodendrons via hand pollination is quite easy if flowering plants are available.
Clearing up the confusion around names
Phildendron bipinnatifadum (formerly Philodendron selloum) was reclassified in 2022 as Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum.
Philodendron hederaceum and Philodendron scandens are two different names for the same species of Philodendron. The velvet textured form, Philodendron herderaceum var hederaceum was formerly known as philodendron micans.
Philodendron hastatum is the Silver Philodendron. It is often mistakenly identified as Philodendron glaucophyllum
Philodendron melanochnysum and Philodendron melanonii are similar in name and appearance, which can cause confusion. However, they are different species.
Philodendron plants with heart-shaped leaves
The heart-shaped Philodendrons tend to be the climbers, and some of them really go for it. Hang them up high so that they can trail all the way to the floor. Alternatively, plant them low beside a support and watch them race to the top. The sizes here are for outdoor plants, and indoor plants will always be a bit smaller.
Heart-leaf philodendron
Philodendron hederaceum var oxycardium, is commonly known as the Heart-Leaf Philodendron or Sweetheart Vine. This is a popular houseplant with bright green heart-shaped leaves that can reach 30cm (12 in) long. It is a relatively fast-growing vine that can trail or climb up to 6 m (20 ft), and it prefers bright, indirect light. It can be grown outdoors in tropical climates that don’t have temperatures below 59o F (15o C).
Velvet leaf philodendron
Philodendron hederaceum var hederaceum (syn Philodendron micans) is a beautiful vine with velvety, heart-shaped leaves that are a deep green color with purple undertones. It shares the same size characteristics growing conditions as the heart-leaf philodendron: Warm temperatures, bright indirect light indoors or shade outdoors will see it grow up to 20 ft (6 m) long.
Philodendron cordatum
Just to confuse you, this plant is also often called the heart-leaf philodendron as cordatum means heart. A distinguishing feature of P. cordatum is the white spots that develop on mature leaves. As a vine it grows longer than the P.hederaceum variety, up to 50 feet (15 m). It can handle slightly cooler temperatures than P. hederaceum but keep it above 10o C (50o F). It can grow outdoors in USDA zones 10-13.
Ecuador Philodendron
Philodendron verrucosum is a climbing vine that can grow up to several meters long with large, heart-shaped leaves that reach up to 50 cm in length and 30 cm in width. The leaves are velvety to the touch and have a dark green color with silver or lime green veins, giving them a stunning contrast. The plant’s stems and leaves often a reddish-brown or burgundy color tint to them. This is a rare Philodendron but a worthy addition to your houseplant collection.
Velvet Philodendron
The Philodendron gloriosum is a stunning plant with large, heart-shaped leaves that have a velvety texture and a deep, lustrous green color. The leaves have prominent white veins that add to the plant’s striking appearance. This tropical plant is a slow grower but can grow up to 3-4 feet tall. The leaves can grow up to 12-18 inches in length and 8-12 inches in width and will tolerate lower levels of light. Grow it in full shade outdoors in USDA zones 10-11.
Giant Philodendron
As the name suggests, Philodendron giganteum is a massive plant that can reach up to 15 feet (4.5 m) in height with leaves that are over 2 feet (60cm) long. It’s a tropical plant that prefers warm, relative humidity of at least 50% and bright, indirect light. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and provide support for the long, heavy stems to prevent them from bending or breaking.
Variegated Philodendron plants
Variegated plants all need a little more light than non-variegated plants. That’s because the variegated part of their leaves has little or no chlorophyl compared to the green part of the leaf. Chlorophyl is how plants make energy, therefore to keep them growing strong they need lots of light. This doesn’t mean that you should put them in full sun positions though. They can handle a sprinkling of direct sunlight, but otherwise need a nice bright spot in a shady garden or close to a window but where they don’t get too much direct sun.
My Philodendron Birkin sits outside my back door for the warmest 6-7 months of the year in USDA zone 9. It gets a bit of full sun for about 45 minutes in the very late afternoon, otherwise it is in full shade. Most gardening blogs will tell you that a Philodendron should never get direct sunlight in the late afternoon, but I like to break the rules.
Don’t be afraid to let your variegated Philodendron get some direct sunlight, just increase it gradually and watch for signs of scorching (crispy edges) that will let you know when you’ve gone too far. Early or late in the day is best, as the sun is at a lower angle so the rays have less intensity. If this isn’t an option for you, consider getting a grow light so that you can add extra hours of light to your variegated Philodendron’s day.
Philodendron Pink Princess
Philodendron erubescens ‘Pink Princess’ is a vining Philodendron with glossy leaves that are a dark green color with pink variegation. It prefers temperatures above 59o F (15o C) and relative humidity of at least 50%. It’s a slow grower that will get to 3ft (1m) in ideal conditions and the help of a support.
Philodendron Brasil
Philodendron hederaceum ‘Brasil’, or the Brazilian Philodendron is a vining Philodendron with leaves that are a bright green color with neon green and yellow variegation. A fast grower, it can reach up to 6m (20 feet) when grown outdoors in warm climates (USDA zones 10 and 11). Indoors it averages 1 m (3 ft) when mature.
Philodendron Birkin
Birkin Philodendron is a vining Philodendron with leaves that are a dark green color with white striped variegation. In ideal conditions Philodendron Birkin can grow up to 1.2m (4ft) tall. It’s derived from a genetic mutation in the Rojo Congo Philodendron. The mutation is unstable though, so you may see leaves revert to green or reddish-green.
Philodendron ‘White Knight’
Philodendron erubescens ‘White Knight’ is deceptively small as a houseplant. When grown outdoors in USDA zones 10-11 it can reach 3m (10 ft) high with a single leaf being up to 45 cm (18 in) long. It’s a slow grower though, so will take a while to get there. Indoor White Knight Philodendrons will stay relatively compact and show off splashes of white on the glossy dark green leaves.
Variegated Giant Philodendron
You’ll love the creamy variegations on Philodendron giganteum variegatum. To keep it healthy you’ll need to provide a good 12 hours of bright indirect light. If it’s not getting enough light you’ll start to see more green and less cream on the leaves. Grown on a support outdoors in USDA zones 12-13 it can reach 10-12 m (40 ft) high. Indoors it will be smaller and you can prune it to limit the size.
Variegated Burl Marx Philodendron
Yellow and cream variegations combine beautifully on the Burl Marx Philodendron. Keep it in a warm location with lots of indirect light and it will reward you with flushes of colorful leaves. A trellis or stake to climb will see it grow up to 60 cm (2 ft) with 25cm (10 in) long leaves. Display it in solo arrangement so that it gets all of the glory that it deserves!
Silver Cloud Philodendron
A moderately fast grower, and not strictly variegated, Philodendron mamei has streaks of silver over its leaves. It can grow up to 1.2m (4 ft) outdoors in USDA zones 9b-11, or smaller when growing indoors in cooler areas. Protect from frosts and temperatures under 10o C (50o F) . Leaves can be up to 45 cm (18 in) long and it will happily climb a support or crawl along the ground.
Philodendron domesticum variegatum
A highly collectable vining Philodendron, this plant has long leaves with golden yellow variegation present on some, and on others not at all. Grow it outdoors in USDA zones 9b-11, and in cooler regions keep it indoors or let it vacation outdoors in summer. Leaves can reach 55cm (22 in) long at maturity.
Philodendron Lime Fiddle
Also known as the Golden Dragon Philodendron, or by it’s botanical name Philodendron pedatum ‘Lime Fiddle’, this tropical plant has triangle shaped leaves with prominent lobes. Variegation in tones of lime green or gold are sprinkled over the large leaves, which can reach 60 cm (2 ft) long at maturity. Given support to climb, it can reach 2m (6.5 ft).
Colorful Philodendron plants
Shades of red, burgundy and purple are common in Philodendrons, but yellow, apricot, orange and copper feature as well. There are even silver tones, and we introduce you to them soon.
Blushing philodendron
Phildendron erubescens has deep burgundy stalks and midribs with glossy dark green leaves. Many cultivars exist and feature on this page. Others include McColley’s Finale, White Wizard, and Black Cardinal. It’s a climbing variety that can grow to 20 ft (6 m) in it’s natural environment but tends to be about 1 m (3 ft) indoors. Leaves are up to 16 in (40cm) long.
Philodendron Red Emerald
Philodendron erubescens ‘Red Emerald’ has large glossy dark green leaves with red undersides. If you are looking for a low light and low humidity tolerant Philodendron you’ve found it. Red Emerald loves to climb a trellis or support pole and will happily reach your ceiling. Give it bright light and extra humidity and it will even try to spread across your wall! Grow it outdoors in USDA zones 10-13.
Philodendron Red Cherry
Philodendron erubescens ‘Red Cherry,’ is a tropical plant with large, glossy leaves that are deep green in color with bright red undersides. This fast-growing plant reaches to a height of about 3-4 feet (1.2 m) and prefers bright, indirect light. It is a relatively easy plant to care for and is great for adding a pop of color to your indoor space.
Philodendron Imperial Red
The botanical name for the Imperial Red Philodendron cultivar is Philodendron erubescens ‘Imperial Red’. It is a tropical plant native to South America that has large, red leaves with a glossy texture. The leaves are slightly heart-shaped and can grow up to 12 inches (30cm) long. This plant prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Philodendron Moonlight
Philodendron Moonlight has bright, lime green leaves that are almost neon in color, making it a popular choice for brightening up a shady space. It can grow up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall and prefers bright, indirect light. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this plant is sensitive to high levels of nutrients. Outdoors in USDA zones 11-13 it will produce white and green flowers all year.
Philodendron Maya Gold
Maya Gold Philodendron is a medium-sized plant that can grow up to 2-3 feet (1 m) in height and spread up to 1-2 feet (60 cm) wide. The leaves of the plant are glossy and oval-shaped, with a bright golden-yellow color that stands out in any room. It is a relatively fast grower and can produce new leaves throughout the year.
Philodendron Prince of Orange
This plant has bright orange new growth that matures to a deep green color. The elongated leaves can grow up to 10 in (25 cm) long. This plant is most colorful when it gets lots of bright, indirect light. It will grow outdoors in USDA zones 10-11 and can spend summer outdoors in zones 8-9. Bring it indoors if overnight temperatures drop to 50o F (10o C).
Philodendron Lemon Lime
Note that this plant shouldn’t be confused with Philodendron hederaceum ‘Lemon Lime’, which has similar colors but a distinct heart shaped leaf. The leaves on this plant are elongated and about 6 in (15 cm) long. It is more sensitive to cold than other varieties and needs a little more water.
Philodendron Majesty
Sometimes called Dark Majesty or Black Majesty, this Philodendron is a hybrid of P. verrucosum and P.sodoroi. That’s where the leaves get their iridescence. It’s a climber that will reach up to 3 m (10 ft) with individual leaves as long as 45 cm (18 in). Leaves start green and can develop deep burgundy black tones in the right light conditions.
Philodendron Red Beauty
Leaves of the Philodendron erubescens ‘Red Beauty’ start red and age to a deep green. They keep their red and burgundy petioles and have a glossy texture. Like the other P.erubescens cultivars, the leaves are quite large and expect the plant to reach 1m (3 ft) indoors, or taller if grown outdoors in USDA zones 10-11.
Silver Philodendron plants
Philodendron Brandi
Philodendron brandtianum is a vining plant native to Central and South America that has small, heart-shaped leaves with silver markings on them. The leaves are about 2-3 inches long and have a velvety texture. Don’t be deceived by the small leaves though, this plant can reach 2m (6.5 ft) high if given something to climb. Brandi likes to be warm, so make sure you keep her out of the cold.
Silver Sword Philodendron
Philodendron hastatum has long, slender leaves that are silver-gray in color. It’ ‘s a fast growing vine that can grow up to 20 feet (6 m) tall in it’s natural habitat, but is more likely to be about half that size indoors. Support for the long, heavy stems is essential to prevent them from bending or breaking. Grow Silver Sword outdoors in USDA zones 9-11 but protect from frost.
Philodendron Silver Queen
Philodendron hastatum ‘Silver Queen’ is little known cultivar. She shares similar size and growth habits as Silver Sword so make sure she has a sturdy support to climb. Young leaves are elongated but as they mature leaves are a sagittate shape and can reach 16 in or 40cm in length. Their surface has a dull silver sheen and occasionally even a chalky appearance.
Philodendron plants with highly lobed leaves
Philodendron plants with highly lobed leaves are a great way to add texture and interest to your indoor or outdoor garden. These plants have leaves that are deeply divided into multiple lobes. They look great paired with wide, round leaves for contrast.
Philodendron Hope
A cultivar of Philodendron bipinnatifidum, ‘Hope’ has large, glossy leaves that are deeply lobed. It can grow up to 4 feet (1.2 m) tall and wide. This plant prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. It is a great choice for indoor and outdoor landscaping, as it can tolerate a wide range of temperatures (USDA zones 8b-11) and tolerates light from full sun to part shade.
Lacy Tree Philodendron
Philodendron bipinnatifidum (formerly Philodendron selloum) is also sometimes known as the Lacy Tree Philodendron. It’s a large, tropical plant with deeply lobed leaves that can grow up to 3 feet long and wide. This plant grows up to 6ft (1.8m) high and can be grown as an indoor plant, or outdoors in USDA zones 9-11. It can handle full sun and doesn’t like full shade.
Philodendron Lickety Split
This plant is a cultivar of Philodendron bipinnatifidum and has the characteristic glossy, deep green, deeply-lobed leaves that are separated into numerous finger-like segments. The overall appearance is elegant and refined. It is a fast growing variety that will reach 3ft (1m) in height. Leaves become golden when grown outdoors (USDA zones 9-11) in full sun.
Philodendron Xanadu
The Xanadu Philodendron, also known as Philodendron Winterbourn, is a compact plant with deeply lobed, glossy green leaves that grow in a rosette shape. At maturity it will reach a height of 3 ft (1 m) when grown outdoors in USDA zones 9-11. It is a low-maintenance plant that can tolerate full sun and frost, making it one of the most versatile Philodendrons for your garden.
Philodendron Florida
A slow growing vine, Florida will reach 6 feet (2m) tall and almost as wide. Another of the hardy Philodendrons, it can tolerate lower temperatures (not frost) and be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9-11. It’s not a lover of full sun though, so make sure it get’s plenty of protection, especially through the middle of the day. Indoors it will be a little smaller but still produce gorgeous large glossy green leaves.
Philodendron Mayoi
Mayoi’s leaves look like a cross between monstera deliciosa and palm leaf, give off some serious tropical vibes. A support is a must so that it can climb and display all of that stunning foliage. Indoors you can expect it to reach about 1.2m (4 ft) tall. It’s generally narrow but you can create curves as shown above. Best in USDA zones 10-11 but try it in a protected location in zone 9 if you are brave.
Philodendron plants with elongated leaves
Philodendron Billie
The scientific name for Billie is Philodendron billietiae. It is a rare, exotic plant native to the rainforests of South America that has large, glossy leaves that can grow up to 18 inches (45 cm) long, that’s half the length of the entire plant! Billie prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining acidic soil. Outdoors in USDA zones 9-11 she will climb a trellis or tree. Protection from frost is important to keep those leaves looking their best.
Philodendron Imperial Green
Philodendron erubescens “Imperial Green” is also known as the Emerald Philodendron. This plant can grow up to 6 feet (2 m) tall and 3 feet (1 m) wide when grown outdoors (USDA zones 10-11), but is much smaller as an indoor plant. Mature leaves measure up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length and 8 (20 cm) inches in width. The leaves are a glossy, dark green color with reddish stems and develop a pointed tip at maturity.
Black Gold Philodendron
Philodendron melanochrysum ‘Black Gold’ is a relatively slow-growing vine with large, velvety leaves that are a deep green color with lime veins. Leaves can appear black, gold and copper tones depending on their age and angle to the light. This tropical plant can grow up to 7 feet (2 m) tall outdoors in USDA zones 9b-11 and sheltered from frost. It averages around 3 ft (1m) growing indoors. Leaves average 12 in (30cm) long.
Philodendron campii ‘Lynette’
A self-heading philodendron with leaves that reach up to 60cm (24 in) long, Lynette is a great option for those who want long elegant leaves but don’t want (or have space for) a vining Philodendron. It’s height will max out about 30 inches (75 cm). The glossy green leaves are textured with creases or ribbing extending from each side of the central rib. Grow it outdoors in USDA zones 10-11 or indoors in any climate.
Philodendron Burle Marx
Also known as Philodendron Imbe, this climbing Philodendron has long narrow leaves up to 24 inches (60 cm) long and 3 inches (8 cm) wide. It uses aerial roots to attach itself to trees as it climbs. If you are growing one make sure you give it a coir pole, tree or similar support to climb attach itself to. If you don’t give it a support it will form a low ground cover about 3 ft (1 m) wide. Suitable to grow in full or partial shade outdoors in USDA zones 10-11.
Philodendron mexicanum
This fast growing climber can reach 2 m (7 ft) in just two years, with narrow leaves stretching out to an impressive 60cm (2 ft) long. The leathery leaves are a glossy green on top and red underneath with reddish stalks. Those of you in USDA zones 10-11 can add this to your outdoor garden, the rest of us will need to grow it indoors and just take it out for a change of scenery in the warmer months. Dappled shade is a must outdoors.
Other interesting Philodendron plants
Mix and match in a group arrangement or use them as feature plants. These varieties of Philodendron have something a bit special about them.
Fuzzy Philodendron
Philodendron Squamiferum is also known as the Fuzzy Philodendron because of the small, red bristles that cover the stems and underside of the leaves. It can grow up to 3 feet tall (1m) and prefers bright, indirect light. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and be sure to provide support for the long, heavy stems to prevent them from bending or breaking.
Philodendron Super Atom
This plant is a miniature version of the traditional Philodendron bipinnatifidum, with leaves that are small and round, when young, and become ruffled as they age. It can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall and is perfect for small spaces or terrariums. The Super Atom likes bright, indirect light and moist soil, but be careful not to overwater, as it can be sensitive to root rot.
Philodendron tortum
The tortum has leaves that are long and narrow, with a slight curve that gives them a unique, elegant appearance. This Philodendron can grow up to 3 feet (1 m) tall and 2 feet (60 cm) wide, and it likes bright, indirect light. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and be careful not to over-fertilize, as this plant is sensitive to high levels of nutrients.
Pigskin Philodendron
The botanical name for this plant is Philodendron rugosum. It has large, green, glossy leaves that are heavily veined and have a wrinkled texture. The leaves are gathered close to the stalk and can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) long. This plant prefers bright, indirect light and moist, well-draining soil.
Fiddle leaf Philodendron
Philodendron pedatum has large, leathery leaves that resemble a fiddle or violin. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and prefers bright, indirect light. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and be sure to provide support for the long, heavy stems to prevent them from bending or breaking.
Philodendron Panda
Philodendron panduriforme, or Wolf’s head Philodendron is a climber with an interesting leaf shape. They start out with three points as juvenile leaves and then form the last two points as they mature. It will reach about 1.5 m (5 ft) tall if it has a support. Leaves are dark green and glossy,
Philodendron corsinianum
This hybrid of P. verrucosum and P. pinnatifidum has been around for almost 150 years yet isn’t very well known. It’s a climbing variety with dark green leaves that have a pinkish bronze underside. The leaves are huge 18 in (45 cm) and the plant will get to about 2.5m (8ft) in ideal conditions.
Philodendron melinonii
This climbing Philodendron has large green leaves with reddish undersides on young leaves. The leaves are among the largest, at around 28 inches long (70 cm). At maturity, a full size plant can be 8 ft wide (2.5m). Indoors, leaves are a smaller 20 inches (50cm).
Philodendron Rojo Congo
Also known as the Congo Red Philodendron, this plant is a slow grower that has luscious dark green leaves and deep red petioles. It can handle low light indoors and a bright filtered light outdoors. Keep it warm though, it’s definitely not a fan of the cold weather. Rojo Congo can get to about 1.5m (5 ft) indoors.
Philodendron grazielae
A rare climber that looks a lot like P.hederaceum but it has shorter wider heart-shaped leaves that are quite thick. The other significance is that this is a much slower growing variety. It will gradually grow to a maximum of about 8 ft indoors (2.5 m), but can grow much longer outdoors in USDA zones 10-11.
Philodendron plants are a great addition to your indoor or outdoor garden. With their unique beauty, easy-to-care-for nature, and variety of sizes and colors, there is no shortage of options to choose from. Whether you are a seasoned plant enthusiast or just starting out, the 50 popular philodendron plants listed in this article are a great place to start. So go add some greenery and life to your home or garden today with one of these stunning plants!
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References
Arndt, M. C., Gile, I. R., & Beerman, S. J. (2023). Molecular Studies to Evaluate Variegation of Philodendron var. Birkin-Are Genetic Mutations Responsible for Variegation in Philodendron Birkin?.
Correia-da-Silva, M., Vasconcelos, S., Soares, M. D. L. D. C., Mayo, S. J., & Benko-Iseppon, A. M. (2014). Chromosomal diversity in Philodendron (Araceae): taxonomic significance and a critical review. Plant Systematics and Evolution, 300, 1111-1122. DOI:10.1007/s00606-013-0949-9
Ördögh, M. (2019). The effect of substrates on different characteristics of Philodendron erubescens cuttings. Review on Agriculture and Rural Development, 8(1-2), 53-59.
Ortiz, O. O., Croat, T. B., Rodríguez-Reyes, O., Ceballos, J., Cedeño-Fonseca, M., & Mora, M. M. (2022). Taxonomic Novelties in Philodendron subg. Philodendron (Araceae) from Panama. Novon: A Journal for Botanical Nomenclature, 30(1), 18-42. DOI:10.3417/2022656
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