The Philodendron White Princess is among the most gorgeous philodendrons with dazzling green and white leaves that you can bring home as an additional beauty to your gardens. You can enjoy the White Princess plant provided that you can meet its basic care needs. Its low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for first-time plant growers.
Interested in knowing more about these plants? We’ve got it all covered for you. We’ll go through all of the basic information and all the essential steps on how to take care of this plant the best.
Philodendron White Princess Profile
General Information
The White Princess is a special variety of Philodendron that has distinctive, lovely leaves. Due to its enormous, white-spotted leaves, this plant stands out in any setting. Like every other Philodendron plant, it has aerial and subsurface roots that link to sustain and gather water. It grows slowly and has pointed green leaves with white variegations.
The White Princess is a hybrid plant related to the Philodendron Pink Princess. The color of the stems serves as the main identifier and the point of identification between the two similarly-looking Philodendron specimens. The White Knight Philodendron has dark pink or brownish purple stems, as opposed to the fully green with red streaks of the White Princess. The stems of the White Princess are similar to that of the Philodendron Pink Princess.
The Philodendron White Princess has uncertain origins. Until now, it is not known if it has relations with other white variants of Philodendrons, the Philodendron White Knight, and the Philodendron White Wizard.
Etymology
The name “philodendron” comes from the Greek words “philo”, meaning “love” and “affection”, and “dendron,” meaning tree. So the Philodendron is loosely translated as “tree huggers” with these meanings. This is because they are often seen in the wild as tree climbers.
Flowering
Flowers of the Philodendron White Princess appear when the plant has reached full maturity. Under the right conditions, you’ll be able to spot a White Princess bloom which consists of a cream-colored spathe that is edged at the base and with margins of pink and green.
Season of Interest and Purchasing
Philodendron splendid grows from May to July, from early spring to late spring. It produces healthy leaves. This plant is a lovely decorative plant that may also be kept indoors in a container.
Philodendron White Princess is accessible at garden centers.
Growth
The stunning Philodendron White Princess is a huge-sized plant. A Philodendron White Princess can grow to a mature size of more than 3 meters in length. In addition, the leaves can grow to be 20 cm long.
However, when cultivated indoors, the Philodendron White Princess typically grows to be only around 1 meter long.
Philodendron White Princess Overview
| Scientific name | Philodendron erubescens ‘White Princess’ |
| Common name/s | White Princess Philodendron, Philodendron White Princess Tricolor |
| Family | Araceae |
| Growth Habit | Herbaceous, Epiphytic Vine |
| Height and Spread | up to 3 meters in length, and 20 centimeters in leaf spread |
| Classification based on life cycle | Perennial |
| Origin and Distribution | Originated from Columbia |
| Climate Zone | Generally mild climate |
| USDA Plant Hardiness Zone | USDA Zone 10-13 |
| Color | Tri-colored leaves, mainly green, cream, and white that is glossy; stems are green with red streaks |
Related: Yellow? Goodbye! 7 Reasons Why Your Philodendron Is Changing Color
Care Tips
Light Requirement
Bright, indirect sunlight goes best with Philodendrons. However, a north or east-facing window may be ideal if you plan to put it indoors. South-facing windows also work but ensure that the plants are placed further away from the window so they do not get exposed to too much direct sunlight and cause their leaves to burn.
During winter seasons, your Philodendron might use a little help. You can use grow lights, especially if your plant is placed in darker home environments or office spaces where light is scarce and not readily available. Your plant will grow even better if it has enough bright indirect light, so make sure they get the right amount they need.
If your Philodendron plant starts to develop leggy and long leaves and considerable distances between the internodes of the leaves, it means your plant is not receiving the right amount of light. So again, direct sun is definitely a no-no, or you will have crispy leaves!
Temperature Requirement
The ideal temperature range for the White Princess Philodendrons is between 64 and 73 degrees Fahrenheit (18 and 23 degrees Celsius), so they should be good in most homes. Just make sure they don’t get too chilly in the winter.
Avoid temperature swings by keeping plants away from outside doors that open and close regularly. If temperature swings are frequent, the plant will suffer, and its leaves will not be healthy. Misting the plant might be a solution since it helps to retain moisture and reduce temperature fluctuation.
Water Requirement
Philodendron White Princess water requirement is generally the same as other Philodendrons. It prefers moist soil, damp but not soggy. This might take some balancing and getting used to, but you’ll learn its preferences once you’ve watered your plant long enough. It is essential, though, to avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rotting, one of the main culprits of deaths of Philodendrons.
To water your plant, check first the soil. Stick your fingers into the topmost soil; if they are completely dry, your plant needs watering. Please pay attention to its leaves also. When it starts to have drooping leaves or yellow leaves, it means your plant is being overwatered or underwatered.
To avoid this, rectify your watering schedule to your Splendid to about twice a week, depending on your indoor air quality, climate, and moisture level. You may use tap water for this plant.
Humidity Requirement
Humid conditions are essential for tropical plants as they come from rainforests with moderate to high moisture levels. This is because they are exposed to heavy rain in their natural habitat and thrive in a moisture level of 60% and above. However, as long as the humidity is at 40%, it will thrive. Ideally, an environment with high humidity is best for the Philodendron White Princess.
This plant requires a misty environment. Therefore, when grown indoors, you may opt to use a humidifier to help maintain the required humidity level.
Soil Requirement
Philodendron White Princess thrives on well-drained, aerated soil that is also rich in organic matter for the roots. Blend the Philodendron Splendid soil with perlite, sphagnum moss, sand, coconut coir, or bark to give it room to flourish. They thrive in fast-draining potting combinations and have a high content of organic materials.
The pH range between 5.6-7 is ideal for the White Princess Philodendron. This is mildly acidic to neutral.
Fertilizer Requirement
During the growth season, Philodendron White Princess will require fertilizer to provide the nutrition it needs. Once fertilized on a regular basis, it grows well and produces healthy leaves. Fertilize it once a month throughout the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Furthermore, using a balanced fertilizer, such as N-P-K, 10-10-10, or 20-20-20, at half the suggested strength is the best choice for fertilizer.
Space Requirement
Your plant will need planters or containers with efficient drainage holes, so the soil does not get soggy for an extended period of time. Waterlogged soil leads to root rot, one of the biggest problems of Philodendrons and other houseplants.
Also, note that Philodendron White Princess is a creeping or climbing vine, so it will need longer, rectangular containers and a moss pole. Make sure to give this plant ample room to flourish.
Growing and Planting Tips
Propagation
Stem cuttings are the most convenient method for homegrown propagation of White Princesses. With a high success rate, it is known for rooting promptly in water or potting soil. Furthermore, the growth of roots is promoted when the stem is covered in moist moss. A new plant is produced by dividing the roots from the stems and leaves.
Below are the detailed steps to successfully propagate Philodendron White Princess:
Propagation by Stem cuttings
- Stem cutting in soil or water is an asexual propagation method that is effective for Philodendrons. It essentially takes a portion of stem from a parent plant and manipulates it to make a new plant.
- To grow Philodendron White Princess, you must follow a simple procedure:
- Pick a stem with a few leaf nodes and a few healthy leaves. Take a 4- to 5-inch stem cutting, trim off the excess foliage, and leave one or two leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone to the cut stem. Prepare a planter using small pots with a soilless potting medium, such as seed-starter mix or vermiculite. Place the prepared seed starting medium on top of the stem.
- Place the cuttings in a location that will provide them with a 50/50 ratio of shade to dappled sunlight. Fill your planter with slightly moist sphagnum moss, potting soil, or coconut coir. Don’t let it become waterlogged. Instead, give it water on a regular basis for two weeks. It typically indicates that strong, new roots have been established when you notice that the cutting’s stem is sprouting new leaves. Move the cutting to a new pot with fresh potting soil once the roots have sufficiently grown.
Pruning
Pruning and grooming are essential for keeping the white princess in good condition. White Princess Philodendron is a self-heading plant; pruning only means removing any dead or damaged leaves every few months.
Cut the leaf stem cleanly at the base, then throw it away or compost it. To ensure that these Philodendrons develop in the appropriate direction, prune them just before the spring season.
Potting and Repotting
An ideal pot for Philodendron White Princess is the one that drains well, so the roots don’t rot from too much moisture. It grows well in any container. However, clay, ceramic, or terracotta pots may help expel excess moisture and avoid waterlogging.
Because of its fast-growing nature, this plant is prone to root-bound conditions. Consider repotting it every 1 to 2 years in the early spring. When repotting, make sure the pot has drainage holes, is two inches larger than the old one, and the potting mix is fresh and of high quality.
You may also mix your regular potting soil with horticultural charcoal and organic matter to facilitate your plant’s growth. An orchid potting mix is also beneficial for White Princess. Just make sure to have a well-draining potting mix to avoid excess water to your plants.
Philodendron White Princess Care
| Light | Bright indirect light |
| Temperature | Intermediate to warm, 64-73 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Water | Once a week, increased in summer, decreased in winter |
| Soil | Airy, well-draining soil; not too loose |
| Fertilization | Regular household fertilizer, once a month |
| Space | Plenty of space to creep or climb |
| Propagation | Via stem cutting propagation |
| Blooming | Rarely blooms, enough sunlight and maturity needed |
| Pruning | Regular pruning |
| Potting | Regular potting mix, use of horticultural charcoal, perlite and coco coir |
Related: Philodendron Splendid: The Fail-Proof Care, Propagation, and Watering Guide You Need
Problems and Troubleshooting
Overwatering
If there is too much water or the soil is constantly moist, your plant will typically drown. The most prevalent reason for stunted, slow growth with yellowing leaves is overwatering. However, if your plants are yellowing but have not yet begun to wilt, you can retain them by starting to water them adequately.
Check for proper drainage in your planter and, if possible, create sufficient air space around the roots.
Underwatering
If the majority of the leaves seem pale and discolored, drooping, withering, and leaf curling, there might be several causes. A severe lack of water combined with excessive sunlight.
Plants will recover if you give them proper watering according to their watering schedule. Sadly, if your plants are dehydrated for a longer time, it may be too late to save them.
Nutrient Deficiency
Stunted growth, browning leaves, paler patterns, and other symptoms are all signs of nutrient shortage. Feed your plant to promote root penetration and stronger leaves in order to avoid this problem. However, if you have a high-quality organic potting mix, this houseplant doesn’t need a lot of fertilizer.
To fix this, apply the proper and balanced fertilizer; look for calcium-rich fertilizer. The strength of the nutrients must also be examined because too high a strength might harm plants and cause your Philodendron White Princess to develop slowly or with stunted growth.
Yellowing and Drooping
Yellowing of the leaves or other leaf discoloration, usually means your plant is getting an excess amount of direct sunlight. Therefore, you may opt to move it to a different placement where it will not receive extra direct light or where it’s shaded with sheer curtains.
Meanwhile, drooping may be a result of excessive or insufficient amounts of water. To address this, adjust your watering schedule appropriately and always check your soil before giving water to your Philodendron.
Diseases
Any plant can be susceptible to diseases if not properly taken care of. Particularly, plants of this family are affected by Septoria Leaf Spot and Alternaria Leaf Spot, which result in fungal growth. Usually, these are also due to over-watering the plants. Take action immediately when you see yellowing (Septoria) or brown spots (Alternaria).
You can treat your plants with a copper-based fungicide, and make sure to be attentive to the watering conditions for it not to happen again.
Pests
Houseplants are also susceptible to pest problems; unfortunately, Philodendron is no exception.
If you observe the presence of pest infestation, the best thing to accomplish is to remove that plant and separate it from the other plants in your collection to avoid further infestation. These pests love to spread from plant to plant, so it is best to be proactive and isolate the infected plant.
The next thing to do, and frankly the easiest and simplest method, is to spray your plant with neem oil. Mix two teaspoons of neem oil and a teaspoon of soap in a spray bottle to make this spray. Add water to fill the bottle and shake properly. Spray the plant lightly, including its undersides, and repeat the treatment every 5-7 days.
Neem oil is a natural pesticide that makes it difficult for these bugs to respirate.
Philodendron White Princess Pests and Diseases
| Common Pests/Diseases | Symptoms | Treatment and Prevention |
Common diseases include crown rot, stem rot, root rot, leaf spot, fungal diseases, and Xanthomonas infection | Yellowish rimming around black or dark brown spots on leaves | Avoid overwatering. Keep soil dry. Avoid too high humidity. Proper ventilation is needed around the plant. Remove infected parts of fungal infections to avoid spreading |
| Common pests include mealybugs, spider mites, aphids, and scales | Visible insects on the surface | Spray plant with warm, soapy water. If infestation is present, use insecticide or neem oil. Use diatomaceous earth. |
Flowering Problems
Although a Philodendron is a flowering plant, it must reach maturity before flowering. When cultivated properly, mature Philodendrons will also yield rich-looking blooms and fruits. It blooms in tiny flowers with white or yellow stripes.
The main issue is that the Philodendron flowers once the plant only matures, which takes around 10 to 15 years, and only blooms for about two days per summer.
Problems with People and Animals
Toxicity
All Philodendrons, including the Philodendron White Princess, are toxic to people and pets. It may look harmless, but it contains a calcium oxalate compound that is unsafe for humans and animals as well. It could cause skin rashes and other allergies if it comes into contact with the skin.
If accidentally consumed, it may cause mild to severe physical or internal discomfort, including stomach issues, swollen lips, and tongue. Make sure to place the plant out of reach from small children, cats, and dogs.
Philodendrons Plants Meaning and Symbolism
Philodendrons are said to symbolize love of nature, perfect for plant lovers and those who have a strong passion for eco-friendly living. They also symbolize personal growth, so they would make an ideal gift for someone who is going through major life events or making personal improvements.
| General Meaning | love of nature, passion for eco-friendly living |
| Symbolism | Personal growth |
Landscaping and Gardening Ideas
Companion Plants
Other tropical plants go well with Philodendrons, especially Monsteras and other Aroids. Some of the plants you may consider include bird of paradise, areca palms, fire spike, heliconia, variegated arboricola, croton, chenille plant, and pentas. Some of these plants will have additional colors and hues of warm oranges and reds, which will perfectly complement your cool dark greens.
Landscaping Ideas
Medium-sized Philodendrons go well as accents inside a humid room, cozy deck, or patio. A full plant can also be placed in the corner of the house or along the entryway. Outdoors, it can be a filler plant for a garden corner, in between palm trunks, or under tall trees. It can also be placed near pools to add even more tropical vibes as long as it won’t get splashed at.
| What to plant with | Other Aroids, Bird of Paradise, Areca Palms, Fire Spike, Heliconia, Variegated Arboricola, Croton, Chenille Plant, Pentas |
| What NOT to plant with | Basically nothing |
Conclusion
The epiphytic climber Philodendron White Princess is praised for its low maintenance requirements, making it ideal for novices. Not to mention that it is one of the rarest and most desired tropical houseplants native to South America.
So when you get your hands into these beauties, make sure to hold on tight and don’t let go! This plant will surely be a real treat, especially with its fast, passing growth, exquisite markings, and majestic display.
Just make sure to follow the tips above, and your plant will surely give back the love they take from you.
FAQs
1. Is the Philodendron White Princess rare?
Philodendron White Princess is a rare hybrid of Philodendron. There is no wonder why. However, due to extensive cultivation and the presence of tissue culture propagation, it is now easy to get a hand on this beautiful plant.
2. How do you keep Pink Princess Philodendron pink?
The bubblegum pink variegation of Pink Princess is significantly induced by proper lighting. To have beautiful variegation, make sure you put the plant in an environment with appropriate and enough sunlight.
3. Is White Princess Philodendron easy to care for?
White Princess is a low-maintenance plant. New plant collectors can have this plant in their own spaces because they are very easy to care for. No advanced expertise is needed.
4. Why is the Philodendron White Princess expensive?
White Princess Philodendron is expensive because it is very difficult to have perfect white variegations on the plant. Unless proper care and nourishment are ensured, there is no guarantee that your plant will have white variegations.
5. Why is my White Princess not turning white?
White variegations on your White Princess Philodendron are mainly induced by sunlight and good genes. So if your White Princess has not given you white variegations, it could be that the plant has not received enough light. Give it more light.
Also, it may have been reverted to an ordinary Green Philodendron. To avoid this, cut the newly emerged green young leaves. Continue to do this until the white variegation is already present.
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The majority of people who have no interest in the subject, and aren’t green fingered assume that all plants and vegetables require the same growing conditions. This is not the case at all. Each plant has its own unique and interesting history and growing process.
I hope you will find The Natural List useful, and that it will help educate you on the wide variety of different flower and plant species there are across the globe.
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