Philodendron 'Prince of Orange' (14cm Pot)

Common Name: Sweetheart Plant

Philodendron 'Prince of Orange' is part of the Araceae family, it is a cultivar with a compact self-heading growth habit. Leaves are narrowly ovate in shape and unfurl as a spectacular orange, sitting atop a pinkish-red petiole. Over time, the leaves will become green; a bright spot with indirect light will encourage the orange colour. Foliage tends to get more leathery with age and leaves also become more prominently ribbed.

This plant has air purifying benefits, it filters toxins and improves the quality of air in our homes. Houseplants have also been known to reduce stress and anxiety.

Light: Although Philodendron 'Prince of Orange' will tolerate lower light levels, its leaves will maintain their color better in bright light. Keep your philodendron plant in a bright location, but not into direct sunlight which can scorch its leaves. It thrives under fluorescent light, too, making it an ideal office plant.

Watering: Water thoroughly, then allow surface to dry out before watering again. Water sparingly in winter, when growth is slower, but don't allow potting medium to dry out. Yellow leaves are often caused by over-watering. Never allow the potting medium to become soggy, which can suffocate roots, leading to root rot; roots need air, too. Remember to always use tepid water for your houseplants because cold water is a shock to these warmth-loving tropicals.

Humidity: Try to maintain 50% relative humidity or higher. Indoor air can become extremely dry in the winter. It's a good idea to use a humidity gauge, rather than guess. The most efficient way to boost indoor humidity for tropical plants is to set a cool-mist room humidifier near your plant. Brown leaf tips are a symptom of dry air.

Additional care advice: Average to warm room temperatures (70-85°F/21-29°C) year-round. Keep this tropical plant from cold blasts from windows and doorways, and away from heat/AC vents. It will tolerate a minimum of 60°F/16°C. Feed Philodendron 'Prince of Orange' monthly spring through fall with a balanced liquid or water-soluble houseplant fertiliser. Feed every 2 months in winter, when growth is slower. Can be grown from stem cuttings in spring.