49 Types of Philodendrons – Popular & Rare Varieties

Philodendrons are a diverse group of plants known for their attractive foliage and adaptability as houseplants. With over 450 species, they come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, ranging from vibrant greens to striking variegated patterns.

types of philodendrons

These tropical plants originate from the rainforests of South America and are a popular choice for indoor plant enthusiasts due to their ease of care and air-purifying qualities.

Philodendron Pink Princess

Pink Princess Philodendron

The Philodendron Pink Princess is a popular houseplant with unique features. It gets its name from the pink variegation on its leaves. This plant is a climbing variety, which means it grows best with support, like a trellis or a stake.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Heart-shaped, medium to large
  • Leaf Color: Dark green with pink splashes
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Availability: Less common and can be expensive

Philodendron Birkin

philodendron birkin

The Philodendron Birkin stands out with its striking leaves. It’s a plant that doesn’t grow too fast, which makes it easy to take care of. You might not find it in every plant store, but it’s worth looking for.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Round and broad with a pointed tip
  • Leaf Color: Dark green with white or light green pinstripes
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Availability: Less common, may be rare in some areas

Philodendron Brasil

Philodendron Brasil

Philodendron Brasil is a vibrant houseplant that brightens any room. It has heart-shaped leaves with unique color patterns. This plant grows fast and is easy to find in many plant stores.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Heart-shaped, typically around 2-4 inches wide and long
  • Leaf Color: Green with yellow to creamy white stripes and patches
  • Growth Rate: Quick-growing, especially in warm conditions with indirect sunlight
  • Availability: Commonly available; you can often purchase it at local garden centers or online shops

Philodendron Gloriosum

philodendron gloriosum

The Philodendron Gloriosum is a special plant with big, heart-shaped leaves. It is known for its velvety texture and the white or pinkish veins that stand out on its green surface. This plant grows by crawling on the ground rather than climbing like some other philodendrons.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Big, heart-shaped leaves that can become quite large
  • Leaf Color: Deep green with striking white or pinkish veins
  • Growth Rate: Slow to moderate, depending on care and conditions
  • Availability: Can be rare and harder to find than other philodendron types

Philodendron Xanadu

Philodendron Xanadu

The Philodendron Xanadu, sometimes known as Winterbourn, stands out with its compact shape and tropical vibes. Unlike some Philodendrons, it does not climb or vine; instead, it grows outward with shiny, deeply lobed leaves. Easy to care for, the Xanadu is ideal if you want a touch of the tropics in your space.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Large, lobed, and slightly wavy edges
  • Leaf Color: Bright green when new, maturing to a darker green
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, gaining fullness over time
  • Availability: Commonly available at nurseries and plant shops

Philodendron Imperial Red

Philodendron Imperial Red

The Philodendron Imperial Red is a vibrant plant with large, glossy leaves. Its leaves change color as they mature, starting from a deep burgundy and gradually turning a dark green. This plant grows quickly and adds a bold pop of color to any space.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Broad and large with a somewhat oval shape
  • Leaf Color: Starts as deep red and matures to dark green
  • Growth Rate: Fast growing
  • Availability: Common and can be found in most plant stores or garden centers

Philodendron Imperial Green

Philodendron Imperial Green

The Philodendron Imperial Green is a tropical plant known for its large, lush leaves. It stands out in indoor gardens with its bright green foliage. This plant grows well in indoor environments and is not fussy about care.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: The leaves are broad and rounded with a glossy texture, usually about 12-18 inches long.
  • Leaf Color: Its leaves have a deep, shiny green color that can brighten up any room.
  • Growth Rate: It grows at a moderate rate, making it suitable for people who want a fast-developing but manageable houseplant.
  • Availability: This variety is commonly available at garden centers and plant stores, often sold as potted plants for indoor use.

Philodendron Selloum

Selloum Philodendron

Philodendron Selloum is a large and showy plant that likes to spread out. Its leaves are big with deep cuts that make them look like hands. You will see it growing best in warm places with plenty of space.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Large, deeply lobed, and hand-shaped
  • Leaf Color: Glossy, dark green
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, but can grow larger over time
  • Availability: Commonly available at nurseries and plant shops

Philodendron Moonlight

The Philodendron Moonlight is a tropical plant with a bright appearance. It’s known for its fluorescent green foliage. This plant grows fast and is often found in people’s homes.

Philodendron Moonlight

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Large, broad leaves that are slightly curved
  • Leaf Color: Vibrant fluorescent green that can lighten as it matures
  • Growth Rate: Fast-growing, especially in warm conditions
  • Availability: Commonly available in garden centers and plant shops

Philodendron Green Congo

The Philodendron Green Congo is a particular kind of houseplant. It stands out for its vibrant green, glossy leaves. This plant grows quickly and is easy to find in plant shops.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Large, heart-shaped leaves
  • Leaf Color: Deep, glossy green
  • Growth Rate: Fast
  • Availability: Commonly available

Philodendron Heartleaf

heartleaf philodendron

The Philodendron Heartleaf is a trailing plant known for its heart-shaped leaves. It grows easily in indoor conditions, making it popular among houseplants. This plant is also called sweetheart vine because of its lovely leaf shape.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Heart-shaped with a length typically 2-4 inches
  • Leaf Color: Deep green and can have a slight sheen
  • Growth Rate: Fast-growing, quickly trails or climbs with proper support
  • Availability: Commonly available at nurseries and garden centers

Philodendron Florida Beauty

Philodendron Florida

Philodendron Florida Beauty is a plant known for its unique and eye-catching leaves. It is a hybrid variety, which means it comes from breeding different philodendrons together. This plant is popular among houseplant enthusiasts for its decorative appearance.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Philodendron Florida Beauty has large leaves with deep lobes and a wavy appearance.
  • Leaf Color: The leaves are variegated, displaying a mix of greens and creamy whites, and, sometimes, even yellow.
  • Growth Rate: This philodendron grows at a moderate rate, making it manageable for indoor gardeners.
  • Availability: While it’s not the rarest, the Florida Beauty can be less common than other philodendrons and may be sought after by collectors.

Philodendron Prince of Orange

Philodendron Prince of Orange

The Philodendron Prince of Orange gets its name from its uniquely colored leaves. As new leaves grow, they show off a vibrant orange hue. Over time, these leaves change to green as they mature.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Broad and pointy-shaped leaves that can grow large
  • Leaf Color: New leaves start as bright orange and fade to green
  • Growth Rate: Fast-growing under the right conditions
  • Availability: Widely available, often found in plant nurseries and online shops

Philodendron White Knight

philodendron white knight

The Philodendron White Knight is a rare and sought-after houseplant. It stands out because of its beautiful variegated leaves. This variety grows slowly and has a climbing habit.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Long and heart-shaped, with leaves growing up to 8 inches long.
  • Leaf Color: Dark green with white or cream-colored variegation.
  • Growth Rate: Slow-growing compared to other philodendrons.
  • Availability: Rare and might be hard to find in local nurseries.

Philodendron Mamei

Philodendron Mamei

The Philodendron Mamei is a type of philodendron plant. It is known for its large, heart-shaped leaves with unique silver markings. This variety grows well in indoor conditions and is appreciated for its decorative appearance.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Large, heart-shaped leaves
  • Leaf Color: Green with distinct silver markings
  • Growth Rate: Moderate to fast, depending on the care and environment
  • Availability: Might be rare in local nurseries but can be found in specialized plant shops or online stores

Philodendron Black Cardinal

The Philodendron Black Cardinal is a striking houseplant with glossy foliage. Unlike many other philodendrons, it has dark, almost black leaves. It grows well indoors and is known for its low maintenance needs.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Broad and oval-shaped, can grow up to 8-10 inches long
  • Leaf Color: Deep burgundy when new, turning to a dark velvety black as they mature
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, with new leaves unfurling from the center
  • Availability: Commonly available at nurseries and plant shops

Philodendron Rojo Congo

The Philodendron Rojo Congo stands out with its thick and shiny leaves. It gets its name from the vibrant red color that the new leaves show as they sprout. This plant grows quickly and can make a room feel tropical.

philodendron rojo congo

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Large, broad leaves
  • Leaf Color: New leaves are vivid red, while mature leaves are dark green
  • Growth Rate: Fast
  • Availability: Commonly available at garden centers and online shops

Philodendron Verrucosum

Philodendron Verrucosum

The Philodendron Verrucosum is a unique plant with eye-catching leaves. It grows from the understory of rainforests in Central and South America. This type of Philodendron is known for its velvety texture and the raised areas, or bumps, on its stems.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Large heart-shaped leaves, which can grow quite big
  • Leaf Color: Dark green with light green veining, and sometimes a reddish underside
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, depending on the environment
  • Availability: Moderately rare, more commonly found in specialist plant shops or online stores

Philodendron Burle Marx

Philodendron Burle Marx

The Philodendron Burle Marx is a tropical plant known for its unique foliage. It has elongated, heart-shaped leaves that create a lush display. This plant is a moderate grower and fairly easy to find in plant stores or online.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Heart-shaped and elongated, each leaf can grow to be quite substantial in size.
  • Leaf Color: The leaves are a glossy deep green.
  • Growth Rate: It grows at a moderate pace, making it manageable for indoor gardeners.
  • Availability: This variety is commonly available and can be found at local nurseries or online plant shops.

Philodendron Billietiae

Philodendron Billietiae

The Philodendron Billietiae is a tropical plant known for its long, striking leaves. It stands out because its leaves can grow quite large and have a distinct deep green color. You often find this plant climbing or supported in indoor plant collections.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Long and narrow with a heart-shaped base, can grow up to 3 feet long
  • Leaf Color: Deep green with orange to yellow petioles (the stem that joins the leaf to the plant)
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, with new leaves appearing during the growing season
  • Availability: Sometimes rare and can be hard to find in regular plant shops

Philodendron Camposportoanum

The Philodendron Camposportoanum is a type of houseplant known for its lovely foliage. It has leaves that change shape as the plant grows. This philodendron is moderately easy to take care of, making it a good choice for new plant owners.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Young leaves are elongated and heart-shaped, mature leaves become more elongated with distinct lobes
  • Leaf Color: Young leaves have a bright, lime-green color, mature leaves transition to a deep green
  • Growth Rate: The plant has a medium growth rate
  • Availability: It is not as common as other varieties and may be harder to find

Philodendron Congo Green

The Philodendron Congo Green is a lush, tropical plant with a compact shape. It features wide, shiny leaves that give it a striking appearance. This variety grows steadily and is quite popular among plant enthusiasts.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Broad and thick with a slightly wavy edge, typically reaching 20 to 30 centimeters in length
  • Leaf Color: Dark green with a glossy finish
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, forming new leaves regularly when cared for
  • Availability: Commonly found at plant nurseries and garden centers

Philodendron Melanochrysum

Black Gold Philodendron Melanochrysum

Philodendron Melanochrysum is a climbing plant famous for its velvety leaves. This plant can grow quite large if given proper support. It’s often prized for its beautiful appearance in indoor plant collections.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Large, heart-shaped leaves that can reach up to 2 feet in length
  • Leaf Color: Dark green with a velvety texture and bright gold or yellow veins
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, faster with higher humidity and adequate light
  • Availability: Less common compared to other types, sought after by collectors

Philodendron Rugosum

Philodendron Rugosum

The Philodendron Rugosum is a unique plant in the Philodendron family. It has leaves that feel like sandpaper, which is why it’s also called the Pigskin Philodendron. This plant grows slowly and is not as common as other types of Philodendrons, making it a special find for plant enthusiasts.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Large, oval-shaped leaves with a texture like sandpaper
  • Leaf Color: Dark green with a matte finish
  • Growth Rate: Slow growing, taking its time to develop new leaves
  • Availability: Rare and might be hard to find in local nurseries or garden centers

Philodendron Giganteum

philodendron giganteum

The Philodendron Giganteum is a type of tropical plant known for its huge leaves. It gets its name because it can grow very large, both in height and leaf size. These plants are loved for their dramatic appearance in indoor and outdoor gardens.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Big, heart-shaped leaves that can grow several feet wide
  • Leaf Color: Bright green when young, darker green as they age
  • Growth Rate: Fast, especially when it gets a lot of warmth and humidity
  • Availability: Might be harder to find than more common philodendrons, but specialty plant shops often have them

Philodendron Golden Goddess

The Philodendron Golden Goddess is a tropical plant known for its unique color. It stands out with its bright, golden-green foliage. This plant grows quickly and adds a splash of color to any space.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Long and narrow leaves and can grow to be quite large
  • Leaf Color: Vibrant golden-green that can brighten any room
  • Growth Rate: Fast-growing, which makes it popular among plant enthusiasts
  • Availability: Might be rare in local nurseries but can be found at specialized plant shops or online stores

Philodendron Atom

philodendron atom

The Philodendron Atom is a compact variety with ruffled leaves. It grows well indoors and is perfect for small spaces. You can recognize this plant by its distinctive wavy leaves that give it a unique appearance.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Round and ruffled with a dense growth habit
  • Leaf Color: Deep green, sometimes with a glossy finish
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, making it easy to maintain
  • Availability: Commonly available in garden centers and online stores

Philodendron Silver Sword Hastatum

Silver Sword Philodendron Hastatum

The Philodendron Silver Sword Hastatum is a houseplant famous for its unique appearance. Its leaves have a sword-like shape that grabs a lot of attention. The plant grows at a moderate pace and is somewhat rare to find in local nurseries.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Long, pointed leaves that resemble the shape of a sword and can grow quite large as the plant matures
  • Leaf Color: Silvery blue-green hue that looks metallic; this shiny color gives the plant its common name, ‘Silver Sword’
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, will not grow too quickly nor too slowly
  • Availability: Less common in regular stores, but can be found in specialty plant shops or online nurseries

Philodendron Radiatum

Philodendron Radiatum is a tropical plant with a unique appearance. Its leaves are deeply lobed, making them easily recognizable. It grows well in partial shade and needs moist soil.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Deeply lobed and large, often reaching over a foot in length.
  • Leaf Color: Bright green, giving a fresh look to its surroundings.
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, allowing time to enjoy each stage of leaf development.
  • Availability: Sometimes challenging to find, but worth the effort for plant enthusiasts.

Philodendron Lemon Lime

Philodendron Lemon Lime

The Philodendron Lemon Lime is a vibrant houseplant with a lively color. It has heart-shaped leaves that grow on trailing vines. This plant’s unique look makes it a favorite for adding a splash of color indoors.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Heart-shaped, length can vary, typically a few inches long
  • Leaf Color: Bright yellow-green, similar to the color of a lemon or lime
  • Growth Rate: Fast-growing under the right light and humidity conditions
  • Availability: Commonly available at plant nurseries and garden centers

Philodendron Red Emerald

philodendron red emerald

The Philodendron Red Emerald is a vibrant houseplant with a tropical flair. It is known for its striking red stems and deep green leaves. This plant grows quickly under the right conditions, making it a popular choice among plant lovers.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: The leaves are large, heart-shaped, and can grow quite long, giving a lush appearance.
  • Leaf Color: The leaves are a deep green color, with glossy surfaces that can sometimes appear almost translucent.
  • Growth Rate: It has a fast growth rate, especially when provided with ample humidity and warmth.
  • Availability: This variety is generally available at garden centers and plant stores, especially those specializing in tropical plants.

Philodendron Squamiferum

Philodendron Squamiferum

The Philodendron Squamiferum is a tropical plant with a unique look. It is known for its long stems that have red, fuzzy hairs. You might find it climbing up trees or other supports.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Large, lobed leaves that can reach up to 12 inches long
  • Leaf Color: Deep green
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Availability: Can be rare to find in typical plant stores

Philodendron Bipennifolium

Philodendron Bipennifolium

The Philodendron Bipennifolium is a unique plant with a playful look. Its leaves remind you of a fiddle or a horse’s head, because of their unusual shape. It’s a climbing plant, which means it likes to grow upwards, often using other objects for support.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: The leaves can be quite large and have a shape that looks like a fiddle or horsehead.
  • Leaf Color: The leaves often start as a bright green color and can mature to a deeper green.
  • Growth Rate: This Philodendron grows at a moderate rate, but giving it a support to climb can help it grow faster.
  • Availability: It’s not the most common to find, but specialty plant shops or online stores might have it.

Philodendron Brandtianum

Philodendron Brandtianum

The Philodendron Brandtianum is a tropical houseplant known for its heart-shaped leaves. Its unique foliage features olive green with white or silver markings. This type of Philodendron grows well in homes and offices because it does not need a lot of sunlight.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Heart-shaped; medium-sized leaves
  • Leaf Color: Olive green with white or silver streaks or spots
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Availability: Fairly common in plant stores and online shops

Philodendron Narrow (Philodendron angustisectum)

The Philodendron Narrow is known for its long, slender leaves. It has a unique look compared to other philodendrons. This plant grows pretty quickly and is a bit harder to find.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Slender and elongated, growing up to 24 inches long
  • Leaf Color: Deep green
  • Growth Rate: Fast
  • Availability: Less common, may be more difficult to find

Philodendron Plowmanii

Philodendron Plowmanii

The Philodendron Plowmanii is a tropical plant with large, heart-shaped leaves. It stands out because of its unique foliage. This type of philodendron grows at a moderate pace and can be hard to find.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Heart-shaped, can grow very large, often with ruffled edges
  • Leaf Color: Pale green with white or creamy variegation
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Availability: Rare and may be difficult to locate

Philodendron Squamicaule

The Philodendron Squamicaule is a tropical plant recognized for its unique features. It stands out with leaves that have a particular shape. You won’t find it in every garden store.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: The leaves are large, elongated, and often have a heart shape.
  • Leaf Color: Its leaves are a deep green color, sometimes with lighter or yellowish streaks.
  • Growth Rate: This plant grows at a moderate rate, developing new leaves as it matures.
  • Availability: Philodendron Squamicaule is quite rare and might be hard to find.

Philodendron Gigas

Philodendron Gigas is a type of plant with big, velvety leaves. Its leaves can change shape as it grows. This plant is known for its quick growth and easy care.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Starts as small, oval when young, and becomes larger and heart-shaped as it matures
  • Leaf Color: Dark green with a coppery tone when new, and transitions to deep green when older
  • Growth Rate: Fast-growing under the right conditions
  • Availability: Can be hard to find and may be considered a rare variety

Philodendron Goeldii

Philodendron Goeldii is a type of plant with a unique look. It’s known for its leaves that spiral like a staircase. It grows at a moderate speed and might be a little hard to find.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Long and slender leaves which can grow up to 12 inches long
  • Leaf Color: Bright green when young and darkens with age
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Availability: Less common than other types

Philodendron Grazielae

The Philodendron Grazielae is a type of houseplant known for its unique leaves. It has a slow growth rate but is quite hardy. This plant isn’t as common as other philodendrons, so it might be harder to find.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Heart-shaped, around 2 to 3 inches in width and length
  • Leaf Color: Deep green with a glossy finish
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Availability: Rare and might be available in specialty plant shops or online stores

Philodendron Pedatum

Philodendron Pedatum is a type of climbing plant. It has leaves that change shape as they grow. You will often find it climbing on other plants or structures.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Multi-lobed and oak-shaped leaves that can grow quite large
  • Leaf Color: Deep green
  • Growth Rate: Moderately fast
  • Availability: Not as common as other varieties, but can be found in specialty plant shops or online stores

Philodendron Micans

Philodendron Micans foliage

Philodendron Micans is a type of tropical plant. It is known for its velvety leaves. These leaves change color as they mature.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Heart-shaped, small to medium-sized, 2-4 inches wide
  • Leaf Color: Young leaves are bright green with a bronze tinge, and mature leaves are deep green with a purplish hue
  • Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
  • Availability: Common in plant stores and online shops

Philodendron Mayoi

philodendron mayoi

Philodendron Mayoi is a unique type of philodendron. It stands out because of its distinct leaf shape. It grows at a medium rate compared to other varieties.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: The leaves are deeply divided and can look like fingers or a palm; they grow quite large as the plant matures.
  • Leaf Color: The foliage is a rich green, which sometimes shows lighter green patterns.
  • Growth Rate: This plant has a moderate growth rate, not too fast or too slow.
  • Availability: Philodendron Mayoi is not as common as some other types, but you can find it in specialty plant stores or online.

Philodendron Ring of Fire

Philodendron Ring of Fire

The Philodendron Ring of Fire is a unique plant with interesting features. It stands out for its varied leaf shapes and striking coloration. This type of philodendron grows at a moderate pace and is quite rare, making it a prized plant for collectors.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Irregular, deeply lobed leaves that can grow quite large as the plant matures
  • Leaf Color: A mix of green, red, orange, and yellow hues; the vibrant colors resemble flames, giving it the name “Ring of Fire”
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, depending on the care and environment
  • Availability: Rare and often sought after by plant enthusiasts; can be more expensive due to its rarity

Philodendron Cordatum

philodendron cordatum

The Philodendron Cordatum is a type of houseplant loved for its heart-shaped leaves. It is often found climbing up trees in the wild, but it can also do well indoors with some support. This plant is easy to care for, making it great for beginners.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Heart-shaped, 2-3 inches wide
  • Leaf Color: Deep green
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Availability: Commonly available in plant shops and nurseries

Philodendron Serpens

Philodendron Serpens is a unique type of plant with a notable feature. It has fuzzy stems, which makes it stand out from other philodendrons. This variety is known for the way it climbs and the hairs on its stems.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Heart-shaped, large leaves that can grow quite big
  • Leaf Color: Dark green with a glossy finish
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, tends to grow faster in the right conditions
  • Availability: Rare and can be hard to find in regular plant shops

Philodendron Splendid

philodendron splendid

Philodendron Splendid is a type of tropical plant. It is known for its large and beautiful leaves. This plant is a hybrid, a mix between Philodendron verrucosum and Philodendron melanochrysum.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow quite big, up to 2 feet long
  • Leaf Color: Velvety deep green with yellow or white veins
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, faster in warmer temperatures
  • Availability: Can be rare and might not be found in common plant stores

Philodendron White Princess

philodendron white princess

The Philodendron White Princess is a beautiful houseplant. It is known for its striking leaves. These leaves make it a popular choice for plant lovers.

  • Leaf Shape and Size: Heart-shaped, medium-sized
  • Leaf Color: Dark green with white variegations
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Availability: Can be rare and in high demand
Philodendrons   Updated: December 15, 2023
avatar Hi, I'm Amy, a devoted horticulturist and the creator of PlantIndex.com, where I use my expertise to help beginners foster their green thumbs. My blog is a vibrant community where I unravel the complexities of gardening and share my profound love for nature.
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