Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’

Selling Size : Single Plant | Pot Included | Secure Packing

The Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ is a stunning and popular hybrid known for its vibrant, ever-changing leaf colors. New leaves emerge as a brilliant orange or coppery color, and as they mature, they transition to a lime green, then a deep, glossy green. It is a “self-heading” variety, meaning it has a compact, bushy growth habit and does not vine or require a climbing pole.

Here is a comprehensive guide to caring for your Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’:

Light

• Bright, Indirect Light: This is the most crucial factor for maintaining the plant’s vibrant orange and green colors. Place it in a location that receives plenty of bright, filtered sunlight, such as a few feet away from a sunny window or in an east-facing window.
• Avoid Direct Sun: Direct, harsh sunlight will easily scorch the leaves and can cause them to fade or develop unsightly brown, crispy spots.
• Low Light: While it can tolerate lower light, this will result in slower growth and a loss of its vibrant colors. The new leaves may emerge green, skipping the beautiful orange stage.

Watering

• Allow the Top Inch of Soil to Dry: The ‘Prince of Orange’ prefers to have consistently moist soil but is susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
• Check Before Watering: You can use your finger or a moisture meter to check the soil’s moisture level.
• Drainage is Key: Always use a pot with a good drainage hole to prevent the plant from sitting in water.
• Reduce in Winter: In the fall and winter, when the plant’s growth slows, reduce your watering frequency.

Humidity

• High Humidity is a Bonus: As a tropical plant, the ‘Prince of Orange’ thrives in high humidity (around 60-80%) but is relatively adaptable and can tolerate average household humidity levels.
• Increase Humidity: If you notice brown tips on the leaves, it may be a sign of low humidity. You can increase humidity by:
  • Using a humidifier near the plant.
  • Placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water.
  • Grouping it with other plants.

Soil and Fertilizer

• Well-Draining Soil: Use a rich, well-draining, and airy potting mix. A good mix can include peat moss, perlite, and/or orchid bark to ensure proper drainage and aeration.
• Fertilizer: During the active growing season (spring and summer), feed your plant with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength and apply it every 2-4 weeks. Reduce or stop fertilizing in the fall and winter.

  

Other Care Tips

• Temperature: This plant prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 85°F (18°C-29°C). It is not cold-hardy and should be protected from cold drafts and temperatures below 60°F (15°C).
• Pruning: The ‘Prince of Orange’ naturally stays compact, so extensive pruning is not usually necessary. You can remove any yellow or damaged leaves to keep the plant tidy.
• Pests: Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Regularly wiping down the leaves with a damp cloth can help keep them clean and prevent infestations.
• Toxicity: Important: Like other philodendrons, the ‘Prince of Orange’ is toxic to humans and pets if ingested due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. Keep it out of reach of children and animals.
• Repotting: Repot your plant every 2-3 years or when you notice that it has become root-bound. Choose a pot that is only one or two sizes larger than the current one.