Philodendron white princess is one of the rarest species of the philodendron genus. The tri-color leaves of the plant with a stem having red streaks amaze every eye. The startling patterns with blended shading on its foliage lying on erected stems wonders all folks. This irresistibly beautiful species is a perfect choice for decorating one’s house due to its compact size and evergreen nature.
Philodendron white princess is not only popular for its unique appearance but also famous due to its friendly nature. It purifies the surrounding air and removes all toxins from it. For knowing more about this rare indoor ornamental plant, you must read the full article.
Classification of Philodendron White Princess
Family: Araceae
Subfamily: Aroideae
Genus: Philodendron
Botanical specie: Erubescens
Flower type: Bracts
Interesting Aspects of the Philodendron Genus
The philodendron genus is as interesting as the appearance of the philodendron white princess. The name of the genus is derived from the Greek words. ‘Philo’ refers to friendship or affection while ‘dendron’ means trees. The name indicates the supporting and friendly nature of all plants belonging to this genus.
The genus philodendron belonging to the Araceae family is considered the second largest genus within the family as it possesses more than 420 various species.
The most unique aspect of this genus is that none of the plants possess a single color or pattern within their leaves. The leaves of the plants within this genus are generally large, lobbed, oval, spear-shaped, and deeply cut coupled with various patterns, designs, and colors.
Cataphyll formation is another interesting attribute of this genus that protects the new leaves of the plant. For those who don’t know about cataphyll, keep in mind that it is similar to a leaf-like structure and green in color.
The presence of both aerial and underground roots is another feature that makes this genus different from other ones.
History and Distribution of Philodendron
The philodendron was detected in wild in 1644 and was given this name in 1829. It is found in Venezuela, Colombia, and the Caribbean areas. Later, it was also found in some areas of Asia. The genus possesses numerous species and 10 of these species are considered suitable as indoor plants due to their growth and size.
Features of the Philodendron White Princess Plant
Leaves and stem
The leaves are oval-shaped and 20-30 cm long. The leaves of this plant are one of the most appealing features that makes it a splendid house plant.
The three different colors with beautifully blended shading giving a glossy and glamorous look to the leaves attract all plant lovers.
The beauty of the leaves is complemented with the green stiff stem with little red color streaks. The stem of the plant makes it different from the White Knight as it has a pinkish-purple stem.
Height
The average height of this plant is 3.2 feet. This height and compact size of the plant make it the best option as an indoor plant.
Evergreen
The plant belongs to an evergreen community and it stays green, fresh, and glamorous throughout the year. Moreover, these plants also possess the quality of purifying the surrounding environment.
Growth
The growth of the plant is very slow similar to other dichromatic plants. If adequate nutrients are given to the plant, then you just have to be patient for seeing its growth. However, in the other case, if no growth is detected then it is an indication of decreasing nutrients.
Dormancy
These rare plants usually hibernate during the winter season and reactive themselves in the spring season. The Philo white princess also stores food and energy for this hibernation period. Therefore, it is recommended not to disturb the plant during this season and propagate the plant once the season ends.
Temperature
The slight or mild cool temperatures are suitable for this plant. The temperature tolerance range of Philo white princess is between 18°C to 23°C which is similar to room temperature. The freshness and glossiness of the plants vanish if placed either under the hottest or coldest temperatures.
Humidity
White princess philodendron originating from humid areas loves mild to high humidity. The humidity range loved by them is 60-80%. You can either sprinkle water on their surfaces or place them in humid areas for ensuring the provision of required humidity levels.
Drought intolerant
The humidity-loving plants cannot bear the drought conditions. Therefore, for ensuring their proper growth, it is suggested to monitor the humidity levels regularly.
Pressure tolerant
Despite the glamorous look of its leaves, the White princess philodendron is not delicate. Nevertheless, increasing pressure may decrease the growth rate of plants and avert them from attaining maximum height. For avoiding such incidence, it is preferred to keep the plant in spacious places where it can breathe and grow conveniently.
Disease and pest resistance
White princess philodendron is not resistant to diseases. The most common pests you come across while managing these plants are aphids and mealybugs.
The mealybugs are white cotton-like webs on the leaves and stems and they cause yellowing, twisting, and drying of leaves by sucking the fluid within them.
On the other hand, aphids attract more towards new leaves. The aphids make the leaves contorted and yellow by leaving a sticky sugary material across the surface which is injurious for the leave’s health.
Toxicity
Philodendron white princess is a toxic plant and you have to keep it away from pets and children. Since the plant is toxic to both humans and animals. The toxicity of this plant is attributed to calcium oxalate compounds which are dangerous for living creatures.
The plant leaves if ingested accidentally by animals or humans can cause swollen tongue, lips, stomach disorder, and severe breathlessness. And in the case of skin contact, it can lead to irritation and allergies. Quick medical care should be taken in these cases.
Therefore, it is suggested to wear gloves and adopt a cautious attitude while handling this plant. And keep the plant away from children and pets.
Durability
White princess philodendron is a stable and durable plant as it is easy to grow and tolerant. The only thing they require is adequate nutrients and little care while the absence of which may cause them to die earlier.
Maintenance
The plant does not require increasing maintenance as they can maintain themselves easily with the adequate provision of water, temperature, humidity, and nutrients.
Philodendron White Princess Care
Caring for a philodendron white princess is not difficult. Anyone following the given care tips can adorn their houses easily with this unique and rare plant.
Water Requirements
Watering your philodendron white princess is an essential step for caring for this rare plant. It is important to ensure that soil is only damp, neither too wet nor soaked. Moreover, you must wait, and let the soil absorb the water before watering it again.
For checking dampness, you can entrench your finger within soil about half an inch. The best time for watering the little plant is between April to September as it is the best time for their growth. Make sure the soil is well-drained during this time for having glossy green leaves.
Sunlight Requirements
It is preferred to place the plant within the area that receives the bright indirect light. The adequate proportion of light is very important for the growth of your Philo white princess. You can easily judge whether adequate sunlight is provided or not through some signs.
For instance, in the case, if the leaves are getting yellow, it means you are giving excessive light to your plant while in the case if leaves are becoming leggy then they are receiving insufficient light. A simple tip to meet the sunlight requirement is to keep on changing the position of the plant.
Soil Requirements
The adequate soil for philodendron white princess is the one that has maximum water absorbing capacity. The perfect soil for your Philo is a mixture of first-class fertilized soil and perlite soil having orchid bark.
This soil possesses air pockets that enable the water to penetrate within the roots that are essential for the growth of the plant. Moreover, it grows well in soil that is rich in organic matter.
In case, if it is not available then any well-depleting garden soil can work well. However, you must avoid using sodden or spongy soils.
Temperature Requirements
The best temperature range is 18-23°C that is equivalent to room temperature. This is the reason it is considered the best indoor plant.
Humidity Requirements
Philodendron white princess likes to live in an environment having medium to high humidity levels. These plants are found to live happily in a humidity of 50% or more.
For maintaining the humidity levels, you can either place your plant near the humidifier or mist its leaves with a spray to avoid drying.
You have to take care of humidity levels even in the winter season, though they require humidity levels less than 50% in this season due to dormancy.
Fertilizer Requirements
It is a foody plant and you have to follow a fertilizing routine for its proper growth. You have to add fertilizer every month during the summer and spring seasons. Whereas, during the winter season, they need fertilizer after every 6-8 weeks.
Pruning Requirements
Pruning the philodendron white princess is also necessary for its growth and development. The best time for pruning is during the spring season as it is the best time for their growth.
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Philodendron White Princess Propagation
You can increase the number of this rare plant by implementing the following simple steps.
- Cut a 4-5-inch-long piece from the plant through the sterilized knife
- Cut all leaves and leave only a few at the top
- Put the stem in a pot with soil and water
- Place it within a warm and damp place where it can receive the required sunlight
- Enjoy sprouting glossy and fresh green leaves of philodendron white princess
Final Word
Philodendron white princess is the best houseplant for those folks who love to take pride in owning rare items. Moreover, its growth and development require minimal care and maintenance.
However, it is toxic to both humans and animals, therefore, it must be placed away from both children and pets. And in case of ingesting its leaves accidentally, you should access medical care immediately.
