If you’re looking for a houseplant that truly makes a statement, the philodendron pink princess is a stunning variegated choice. Its dramatic leaves, splashed with vibrant pink, deep green, and sometimes even white, have made it a must-have for plant lovers everywhere.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to keep your Pink Princess thriving. We’ll cover care, propagation, and how to encourage those famous pink patches.
Philodendron Pink Princess
This plant, officially known as Philodendron erubescens ‘Pink Princess’, is a cultivated variety. It’s a climbing aroid, meaning in its natural habitat it would grow up trees in tropical rainforests.
The pink coloring isn’t from a pigment, but from a lack of chlorophyll in certain cell layers. This variegation is unstable, so each leaf is a unique surprise.
What Makes the Pink So Special?
The pink variegation can appear as large blocks, delicate speckles, or bold marbling. The amount of pink varies widely from plant to plant and even leaf to leaf.
More light generally encourages more pink, but genetics play the biggest role. A highly variegated plant is often more expensive due to its desirability and slower growth.
Bringing Your New Plant Home
First, check it for pests like spider mites or mealybugs. Isolate it from your other plants for a week or two, just to be safe.
It may go through an adjustment period and drop a leaf or two. Don’t panic—this is normal as it gets used to your home’s conditions.
Ideal Light Conditions
Bright, indirect light is absolutely key. This is the most important factor for both growth and maintaining pink variegation.
- A spot near an east or west-facing window is perfect.
- Sheer curtains can diffuse harsh southern light.
- Too little light causes small, mostly green leaves and leggy growth.
- Direct sun can scorch the delicate leaves, causing brown spots.
Watering Your Plant Correctly
Overwatering is the fastest way to harm your Pink Princess. They like to partially dry out between drinks.
Stick your finger about two inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. Thoroughly soak the soil until water runs from the drainage holes, then let it drain completely.
Never let it sit in a saucer of water. In winter, you’ll need to water less frequently as growth slows.
Soil and Potting Needs
These plants need a chunky, airy mix that drains quickly. A standard potting soil will hold too much moisture and suffocate the roots.
A good recipe you can mix yourself includes:
- Two parts high-quality potting mix.
- One part orchid bark or perlite.
- One part horticultural charcoal or coco coir.
Repot every 1-2 years in spring, sizing up only one or two inches in pot diameter. A pot that’s too large holds excess wet soil.
Humidity and Temperature
As tropical plants, they appreciate higher humidity (above 50%), but they can adapt to average home levels.
- Brown, crispy leaf edges often signal low humidity.
- Use a humidifier, a pebble tray, or group plants together to increase moisture in the air.
- Keep them away from heating vents and drafty windows. Ideal temperatures are between 65°F and 80°F.
Fertilizing for Growth and Color
Feed your plant during the active growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks. Stop feeding in fall and winter when the plant isn’t actively growing. Over-fertilizing can damage the roots and cause leaf burn.
Pruning and Training
Your Pink Princess is a climber. It will appreciate a moss pole or trellis to attach its aerial roots to. This encourages larger, more mature leaves.
Prune strategically:
- Use clean, sharp scissors to cut just above a node (the bump where a leaf meets the stem).
- Pruning can encourage bushier growth.
- You can remove any all-green leaves to direct the plant’s energy to more variegated stems.
How to Propagate New Plants
The best way to propagate is by stem cuttings. This is usually done in spring or summer.
- Choose a healthy stem with at least 2-3 nodes and some pink variegation.
- Cut just below a node using a sterile blade.
- Place the cutting in water or damp sphagnum moss, ensuring at least one node is submerged or buried.
- Put it in bright, indirect light and change the water weekly if using that method.
- Once roots are a few inches long, pot it up in your aroid soil mix.
Common Problems and Solutions
Yellow Leaves: Often a sign of overwatering. Check your soil moisture and drainage.
Brown, Crispy Edges: Usually due to low humidity or underwatering. Increase ambient moisture or check your watering schedule.
Leggy Growth with Small Leaves: This means it needs more light. Move it to a brighter location.
Losing Pink Variegation: If new leaves are coming in mostly green, try increasing light. If the stem has reverted to all green, prune back to the last variegated node.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Pink Princess not pink?
Insufficient light is the most common cause. Move it to a brighter spot. Also, if you prune, always cut back to a section of stem that shows pink striping.
Is the Philodendron Pink Princess toxic?
Yes, like all philodendrons, it contains calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep it out of reach of curious cats, dogs, and children.
How fast does a Pink Princess grow?
With good care, it’s a moderately fast grower during the warm seasons. You might see a new leaf every few weeks. Growth slows or stops in winter.
Where can I buy a real Pink Princess?
Look for reputable nurseries, local plant shops, or trusted online sellers. Be wary of deals that seem to good to be true, as some sellers may try to pass off other plants as a Pink Princess.
Can I put my Pink Princess outside?
Only in warm, humid months, and only in a fully shaded spot. Never expose it to direct outdoor sun, which is much stronger than indoor light. Always bring it back inside before temperatures drop below 60°F.
Final Tips for Success
Patience is essential. This plant can be fussy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Don’t be afraid to adjust your care based on what the plant tells you.
Each leaf is a work of art. With the right balance of light, water, and a little bit of luck, your philodendron pink princess will be a stunning centerpiece in your home for years to come. Remember that consistency is more important then perfection in plant care.