Burgundy Princess Philodendron

If you’re looking for a houseplant that makes a dramatic statement, look no further than the burgundy princess philodendron. This stunning plant is celebrated for its elegant deep red foliage, which adds a rich, sophisticated pop of color to any indoor space. Its leaves are a beautiful mix of deep burgundy, dark green, and sometimes even pink, making every new growth a surprise.

It’s a relatively easy plant to care for, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced plant lovers. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to keep your burgundy princess thriving.

The Burgundy Princess is a captivating cultivar of the common heartleaf philodendron. It’s known for its striking, multi-colored leaves. Unlike some finicky variegated plants, it’s quite resilient.

Here’s what makes it special:

Foliage: The leaves are heart-shaped with a glossy texture. Colors range from deep burgundy and chocolate brown to olive green and soft pink, often all on one plant.
Growth Habit: It’s a climbing or trailing plant. Given a moss pole or trellis, it will climb beautifully. Alternatively, it can be grown in a hanging basket where its vines can cascade down.
Size: Indoors, vines can eventually reach several feet long with proper care and support.
Air Purification: Like other philodendrons, it helps filter common household toxins from the air, making your home healthier.

Ideal Light Conditions

Getting the light right is the key to maintaining that famous burgundy color. Too little light, and the leaves will turn more green. Too much direct sun, and the leaves can scorch.

Best Light: Bright, indirect light is perfect. An east-facing window is ideal. A spot a few feet back from a south or west window also works well.
Signs of Too Much Light: Leaves look faded, washed out, or develop crispy brown patches.
Signs of Too Little Light: New leaves are smaller, less colorful, and the stems become leggy as they stretch toward the light.

Watering Your Plant Correctly

Overwatering is the most common mistake with philodendrons. They like to dry out a bit between drinks.

Check the Soil: Before watering, stick your finger about 2 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
Water Thoroughly: Water slowly and evenly until you see water draining freely from the bottom of the pot. This ensures the entire root ball gets moisture.
Empty the Saucer: Never let the plant sit in standing water, as this leads to root rot.
Adjust for Seasons: Water more frequently in the spring and summer (growing season) and reduce watering in the fall and winter when growth slows.

Soil and Potting Needs

A well-draining potting mix is non-negotiable. These plants hate having “wet feet.”

Potting Mix Recipe: A good mix is two parts regular indoor potting soil, one part perlite, and one part orchid bark or coco coir. This creates an airy, chunky mix that drains quickly.
Pot Type: Always use a pot with drainage holes. Terracotta pots are excellent because they allow the soil to dry out more evenly.
When to Repot: Repot every 1-2 years in spring, or when you see roots growing out of the drainage holes. Only go up one pot size (about 2 inches wider in diameter).

Humidity and Temperature

As a tropical plant, it appreciates higher humidity but is quite adaptable to typical home conditions.

Humidity: Aim for 40-60% humidity. If your air is dry (especially in winter), group plants together, use a pebble tray, or run a small humidifier nearby.
Temperature: Keep it in a warm spot between 65°F and 80°F (18°C – 27°C). Avoid cold drafts from windows, doors, or air conditioning vents.

Fertilizing for Vibrant Growth

Feeding your plant helps support its colorful foliage and vigorous growth.

Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer (like a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20) diluted to half strength.
Fertilizing Schedule: Feed once a month during the spring and summer. Do not fertilize in the fall and winter.
Tip: Water the soil lightly before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn. Always follow the instructions on your fertilizer’s label.

Pruning and Propagation

Pruning keeps your plant looking full and bushy. It also gives you cuttings to make new plants!

How to Prune

Simply use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Cut just above a leaf node (the little bump on the stem where a leaf attaches). This encourages new branches to grow from that point, making the plant fuller.

How to Propagate in Water

Take a cutting that has at least 2-3 nodes and a couple leaves.
Place the cutting in a jar of water, ensuring the nodes are submerged but the leaves are not.
Put it in bright, indirect light and change the water every few days.
In 2-4 weeks, you should see roots developing. Once they are an inch or two long, you can pot the cutting in soil.

Common Pests and Problems

Even the best gardeners encounter issues sometimes. Here’s how to spot and fix common problems.

Yellow Leaves: Usually a sign of overwatering. Check your watering schedule and ensure the pot drains well.
Brown Leaf Tips: Often caused by low humidity or underwatering. Increase humidity or check the soil moisture more regularly.
Pests: Watch for mealybugs (look like tiny white cotton balls) and spider mites (fine webbing on leaves). Wipe leaves with a damp cloth or use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat.
Leggy Growth: This means the plant needs more light. Move it to a brighter location.

Styling Your Home with Burgundy Princess

This plant’s color makes it a fantastic design element. Its deep tones pair well with light-colored walls and natural materials like wood and linen. Try placing it on a high shelf where its vines can trail down, or train it up a moss pole for a vertical green (and red!) accent. It looks stunning in a simple, neutral pot that lets the foliage be the star.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the burgundy princess philodendron rare?

It used to be harder to find, but it’s becoming more available at local nurseries and online plant shops. It’s not as common as a plain green heartleaf, but it’s not extremely rare either.

How do I get more pink on my burgundy princess philodendron?

The pink variegation is unstable and depends on genetics and light. Providing bright, indirect light can encourage more color variation, but there’s no guarantee. Each leaf is unique!

Is this plant toxic to pets?

Yes, like all philodendrons, the Burgundy Princess contains calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. It’s best to keep it out of reach of curious pets.

Why are my new leaves small and not colorful?

This is typically a sign of insufficient light. Try moving your plant to a brighter spot with indirect sunlight to see if the new growth improves in size and color.

Can I grow this plant outdoors?

You can in warm, humid climates (USDA zones 9-11) in a shaded spot. It must be protected from direct sun and brought inside if temperatures drop below 60°F (15°C). For most people, it’s best as an indoor plant year-round.

Caring for a burgundy princess philodendron is a rewarding experience. By following these simple guidelines for light, water, and soil, you’ll be able to enjoy its elegant deep red foliage for many years to come. Remember, the most important thing is to observe your plant and adjust your care as needed—it will tell you what it wants. With a little attention, this stunning philodendron will become a cherished part of your home jungle.