Which Philodendron variety should you choose?

Below you’ll find a quick guide to different philodendron varieties, depending on your expectations and experience with growing philodendrons.

Philodendron hederaceum (including the 'Brazil' and 'Micans' varieties). Very hardy, fast-growing, and forgiving if you occasionally forget to water it. 'Brazil' has beautiful green-and-yellow variegation, while 'Micans' has velvety leaves.

Philodendron scandens. Produces long, decorative trailing stems — perfect for hanging pots.

Philodendron Birkin. Compact growth and striking white-and-green stripes on its leaves. It prefers a bright spot but can also tolerate partial shade.

Philodendron selloum. Impressive, deeply lobed leaves. It grows slowly but is very hardy and tolerates occasional lapses in watering.

Philodendron xanadu. Forms dense, compact clumps — ideal for interior decoration. It needs a little more light but can also tolerate slightly shaded locations.

Philodendron hastatum (Silver Sword). Beautiful, silvery leaves and low-maintenance care. Easy to train on a support.

Philodendron hederaceum (e.g. the 'Brazil' variety). Very adaptable and tolerant of dry air. Easy to grow, it can thrive even in lower humidity and less-than-ideal lighting.

Philodendron scandens. This classic heart-leaf philodendron tolerates a wide range of conditions. Even in dry air, it maintains its attractive green leaves.

Philodendron Birkin. Popular for its white-and-green striped leaves. It is relatively hardy, although in very dry air, it is worth misting the leaves occasionally.

Philodendron xanadu. Compact, with fan-shaped leaves. It prefers moderate humidity but can also do well in standard indoor conditions without major problems.

💡 As you can see, Birkin and Xanadu appear in both categories. So perhaps they’re worth considering if you want a plant that is both beautiful and easy to grow?

Philodendron gloriosum. Giant, heart-shaped leaves covered with a velvety surface and prominent white veining. It grows more slowly, but under the right conditions (a bright spot and high humidity), its leaves can grow to more than 50 cm!

Philodendron erubescens (e.g. the 'Red Emerald' or 'Imperial Green' varieties). Large, glossy leaves and fast growth. The 'Imperial Green' variety is very easy to grow and ideal for beginners.

Philodendron selloum (Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum*). One of the largest philodendrons grown indoors — its deeply divided leaves can reach up to 1 m in length! It needs plenty of space because it spreads widely.

Philodendron xanadu. A compact version of Selloum — it has large, fan-shaped leaves but a more compact growth habit. It does very well indoors.

Philodendron plowmanii. Has large, textured, ruffled leaves with an interesting surface. Ideal for larger pots and locations with moderate light.

Philodendron pastazanum. Huge, heart-shaped leaves that develop on low, creeping stems. It grows well across wider surfaces and in slightly higher humidity.

Philodendron giganteum. As the name suggests — truly gigantic leaves! With proper care, it can reach impressive sizes indoors.

🔴 You can find more information about philodendron care, step by step, in the philodendron growing plans available in the "crop plans" section.

Philodendron 'Brazil' – green-and-yellow leaves

Philodendron 'Pink Princess' – green-and-pink leaves

Philodendron 'White Princess', Philodendron 'Florida Beauty' – green-and-white leaves

Philodendron 'Ring of Fire' – green, cream, orange, and red leaves!

Philodendron 'Red Emerald' – green-and-red leaves with burgundy leaf stalks

Philodendron 'McColley's Finale' – green, brown, red, and orange leaves.