Pink Princess Philodendron: A Complete Care Guide for 2024

If you’ve ever wanted a plant that’s as rare as it is beautiful, the Pink Princess Philodendron is it.

This plant doesn’t just sit in the background – it demands attention with its pink and green leaves.

I mean, who wouldn’t love a houseplant that looks like it belongs in an art gallery?

But, before you rush to get one, know that this beauty requires a bit of TLC.

Those striking colors need the right light, water, and care to keep shining. Without it, they lose their charm and turn plain green.

So, if you’re ready for a houseplant that’s both a statement piece and a responsibility, this one’s for you.

Let’s dive into how to help it thrive!

Key Takeaways

Feature	Details
Scientific Name	Philodendron erubescens ‘Pink Princess’
Light Requirements	Bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn
Watering	Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce watering in winter
Soil	Well-draining mix; recommended combination: potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark
Temperature	65-79°F (18-26°C); avoid temperatures below 60°F
Humidity	Prefers medium to high humidity (50-60%); misting or a humidifier can help
Fertilizer	Balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during spring and summer; stop during the dormant period (fall/winter)
Repotting	Every 2-3 years or when roots outgrow the pot
Propagation	Stem cuttings in water or soil, usually during the growing season
Common Problems	Overwatering (root rot), pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids
Price Range	$50 – $500+, depending on size and variegation
Growth Rate	Moderate; slower-growing compared to other Philodendrons

Why Grow a Pink Princess Philodendron As a Home Plant

The Pink Princess Philodendron is an exceptional choice for a home plant due to its striking appearance and manageable care needs.

Its uniquely variegated leaves, with vibrant pink splashes against deep green, make it a true statement piece that adds color and character to any indoor space.

Beyond aesthetics, the plant is relatively hardy and easy to care for, making it ideal for plant enthusiasts of all levels.

It thrives in typical household conditions with bright, indirect light and moderate humidity, meaning you won’t need to go to extreme lengths to maintain it.

Additionally, the Pink Princess Philodendron is known for its air-purifying qualities, helping to improve indoor air quality.

With the right care, this rare beauty can flourish and become a long-term companion in your home, rewarding you with stunning variegation and lush foliage.

Is a Philodendron Pink Princess Hard to Care For?

The Philodendron Pink Princess is not considered hard to care for, but it does have specific needs to thrive.

It prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its beautiful pink variegation and needs to be kept in well-draining soil to avoid issues like root rot.

Watering can be a bit tricky, as overwatering is a common cause of problems, so allowing the top of the soil to dry out between waterings is essential.

It’s relatively hardy in average household temperatures, but it loves higher humidity levels, so misting or using a humidifier can help keep it looking its best.

With regular attention to these key factors, even a beginner can successfully care for a Pink Princess and enjoy its striking foliage.

While not the most low-maintenance plant, it’s certainly manageable with a bit of dedication.

6 Pink Princess Philodendron Care Tips

Caring for a Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ isn’t just about watering it once in a while and hoping for the best.

This plant has needs – light, humidity, and even the right soil mix all play a part in keeping those stunning pink leaves vibrant.

If you want it to thrive and not just survive, you’ll need to give it a bit of extra attention. But don’t worry, it’s not rocket science.

With the right tips and a little patience, your Pink Princess will be showing off its colors and rewarding your efforts in no time. Ready to learn how to keep this beauty at its best?

☀️ How Much Light Does a Pink Princess Philodendron Need

TL;DR: Use bright, indirect light to keep your Pink Princess Philodendron’s color vibrant, and supplement with a grow light if needed.

The philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ needs bright, indirect light to keep its pink and green variegation vibrant.

Without enough light, those beautiful leaves will start turning plain green, losing their charm.

On the other hand, too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn, leaving brown, crispy spots. So, finding the right balance is key.

For indoor growing, follow these tips:

• Use a grow light: If your home doesn’t get enough natural light, a grow light can make a big difference in keeping those colors strong.
• Rotate your plant: Give all sides equal light exposure to avoid uneven growth.
• Distance matters: Keep the grow light about 12-18 inches away from the plant to mimic natural light without overexposing it.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll maintain that striking variegation without stressing your plant.

💦 Watering Needs

TL;DR: Water your Pink Princess Philodendron when the top of the soil dries out, once a week in warm months, less in winter, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

The key to keeping your Pink Princess thriving is striking the right balance with watering.

Allow the top layer of soil to dry out before watering again, as this prevents overwatering, which can lead to root rot – a common problem for this plant.

In warmer months, you’ll likely need to water about once a week, while in the winter, you can stretch it out to once every 1-2 weeks.

If the leaves start yellowing or the soil feels soggy, those are signs of overwatering, and it’s time to adjust your routine.

Pro Tip:

• Always check the soil moisture before watering by sticking your finger about an inch deep into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water; if it’s still moist, hold off for a day or two.
• Use a pot with good drainage to avoid water buildup at the bottom, as this is crucial in preventing root rot.

🪴 Best Soil for Pink Princess Philodendron

TL;DR: Use an airy, well-draining mix of potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark, and repot every 2-3 years or when roots outgrow the pot.

When it comes to soil, the Pink Princess Philodendron likes to breathe.

An airy, well-draining mix with plenty of organic matter is ideal for keeping your plant happy and its roots healthy.

A great blend for this plant includes regular potting soil for nutrients, perlite for drainage, and orchid bark for that extra bit of airflow.

You’ll want to repot it every 2-3 years or whenever you notice the roots are starting to outgrow the current pot – usually when they poke out from the drainage holes or wrap around the inside of the pot.

Pro Tip:

• Choose a pot with good drainage and repot in the growing season (spring or summer) to avoid shocking the plant.
• Don’t jump to a pot that’s too big; just one size larger will do the trick and keep the roots from being overwhelmed.

🌡️ Temperature and Humidity

TL;DR: Keep your Pink Princess Philodendron at 65-79°F (18-26°C) and maintain 50-60% humidity with a humidifier or pebble tray if needed.

Your Pink Princess loves warmth and humidity, so keeping it comfortable is key to vibrant growth.

The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 65-79°F (18-26°C).

It can handle typical household conditions but struggles when temperatures dip below 60°F. So, make sure to keep it in a cozy spot away from drafts or cold windows.

As for humidity, this plant thrives in medium to high levels – around 50-60%.

If your home tends to be on the dry side, especially in winter, using a humidifier or placing the plant on a pebble tray with water can help boost the humidity.

Pro Tip:

• If you don’t have a humidifier, try misting the plant regularly or grouping it with other houseplants to naturally increase the humidity around it. This will keep those gorgeous leaves looking their best!

🔎 Fertilizing

TL;DR: Fertilize your Pink Princess Philodendron monthly in spring and summer, and stop feeding during fall and winter when it’s dormant.

Your Pink Princess loves a little boost during its growing season.

Feed it with a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during spring and summer to encourage lush, colorful growth.

But as soon as fall hits, the plant slows down, and you should stop fertilizing to avoid overfeeding.

During the dormant months, extra nutrients can do more harm than good, potentially leading to weak or leggy growth.

Pro Tip:

• When feeding, dilute the fertilizer to half-strength to avoid burning the roots. This gives your plant a steady supply of nutrients without overwhelming it.

✂️ Pruning and Propagation

TL;DR: Prune your Pink Princess to encourage bushier growth and propagate using stem cuttings, either in water or soil, with proper care.

Pruning your Pink Princess Philodendron is key to keeping it bushy and preventing legginess.

The best time to prune is during the growing season, in spring or summer when the plant is actively producing new leaves.

Regular pruning not only shapes the plant but also promotes new growth. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can propagate the cuttings!

Simply snip a healthy stem with a few leaves and nodes.

You can root the cutting in water or directly in soil – just make sure to keep the nodes submerged if you’re using water.

Roots typically form in 2-4 weeks.

Pro Tip:

• When transitioning water-rooted cuttings to soil, make sure the new roots are at least 1-2 inches long for better success. Always use a well-draining soil mix when potting the new plant to keep it healthy and growing!

How to Repot Pink Princess Philodendron

Repotting your Pink Princess Philodendron is an essential part of keeping it healthy and thriving.

Typically, this plant needs repotting every 2-3 years, or when you notice the roots are growing out of the pot’s drainage holes or circling the pot’s interior.

Repotting not only gives the plant room to grow but also refreshes the soil, providing new nutrients.

Let’s walk through the process step by step so you can give your plant the best possible transition into its new home.

Step-by-Step Guide to Repotting Your Philodendron

1. Choose the right pot
Select a new pot that is about 2-4 inches larger than the current one. Make sure it has drainage holes to prevent water buildup, which could lead to root rot. A terracotta or plastic nursery pot works well.

2. Prepare the soil
Prepare an airy, well-draining mix. A combination of potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark is ideal for Pink Princess Philodendrons. This mix provides both nutrients and proper drainage, allowing the roots to breathe.

3. Remove the plant from its current pot
Gently turn the plant on its side and tap the sides of the pot to loosen the soil. Carefully slide the plant out, being mindful not to damage the roots. If the plant is stuck, try squeezing the pot or using a knife to loosen the soil around the edges.

4. Examine and prune the roots
Once the plant is out, take a look at the roots. If you notice any mushy, brown, or rotting roots, prune them using sterilized scissors. Healthy roots should be white or light brown. Trimming the roots encourages new growth.

5. Loosen the root ball
Loosen the root ball by gently shaking off old soil. You want to free up the roots and remove as much of the old compacted soil as possible without damaging them.

6. Place the plant in the new pot
Fill the bottom of the new pot with a bit of fresh soil mix. Place the plant in the center of the pot, ensuring it sits at the same depth as it was in the old pot. Hold the plant steady and begin filling the pot with soil around the roots, packing it gently but not too tightly.

7. Water thoroughly
Once potted, water the plant thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom. This helps settle the soil around the roots and removes any air pockets. Allow the excess water to drain away completely.

8. Return to the original spot
Place your Pink Princess back in its usual location with the same lighting conditions. It’s best to repot in spring or summer when the plant is actively growing, so it can recover quickly.

By following these steps, you’re giving your Pink Princess the best possible start in its new pot.

Repotting may seem like a big task, but with careful attention, your plant will continue to flourish.

How and Where to Buy a Pink Princess Philodendron

You can find Pink Princess Philodendrons at various online plant retailers, specialty plant stores, or local nurseries.

Popular online options include Etsy, eBay, and specialized plant websites like The Sill or Plant Circle.

It’s also worth checking Facebook plant groups or Instagram sellers, where collectors often trade rare plants.

Just make sure to verify the seller’s reputation before making a purchase.

What to Look for When Buying a Pink Princess Philodendron?

When shopping for a Pink Princess, look for healthy leaves with a good balance of pink and green variegation.

Avoid plants with too much green or those that look weak or leggy.

Check for any signs of pests or disease, such as yellowing leaves, spots, or visible pests like spider mites. If possible, inspect the roots to ensure they’re white and firm, not brown and mushy, which could indicate root rot.

How Much Does a Pink Princess Philodendron Cost?

The price of a Pink Princess Philodendron varies depending on size and variegation.

On average, a small plant can cost between $50 to $100, while larger, more established plants with higher variegation can go for $200 or more.

Rare or highly variegated specimens can even exceed $500 in some markets.

Why Are Pink Princess Philodendrons So Expensive?

Pink Princess Philodendrons are pricey due to their rarity and high demand.

The plant’s unique pink variegation doesn’t always appear consistently, making the most colorful plants more sought-after.

Additionally, they grow relatively slowly, which limits supply in the market. Variegated plants are also trickier to propagate, further driving up their cost.

Pink Princess Philodendron Problems and Pests

TL;DR: Watch out for pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids; treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil, and prevent diseases like root rot by avoiding overwatering.

Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ is no stranger to common houseplant issues.

Pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids are frequent visitors, and they can cause yellowing or speckled leaves.

Using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or increasing humidity can help combat these pests effectively.

As for diseases, overwatering is your worst enemy, often leading to root rot. Here are the most common diseases to watch for:

• Root rot: Caused by waterlogged soil, leading to mushy roots and yellowing leaves.

• Fungal infections: Dark spots on the leaves, often due to high humidity or poor air circulation.
• Bacterial leaf spot: Small brown spots with yellow halos, indicating poor air circulation or high moisture.

If you notice yellowing leaves or fading variegation, check your light and watering routines, as these are often signs of stress.

Leggy growth usually means your plant needs more light.

Pro Tip:

• To prevent these issues, always ensure proper drainage, avoid overwatering, and give your plant the right amount of light. For pests, regularly inspect your plant and treat infestations early with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

To Sum Up

When it comes to your Pink Princess Philodendron, consistency is key.

Regularly checking in on its health – whether it’s watering, lighting, or general upkeep – will go a long way in keeping it happy.

While the plant thrives under certain conditions, don’t be afraid to experiment with lighting or humidity adjustments to find what works best in your space.

If you notice the leaves are losing their vibrant pink color, try increasing the light or adding a humidifier to boost humidity levels.

The good news is that with proper care, this plant is relatively hardy and can bounce back from most minor issues.

So, keep an eye on it, and you’ll enjoy its stunning variegated leaves for years to come!

FAQs

How do I make my Pink Princess Philodendron pink?

To enhance the pink variegation on your Pink Princess Philodendron, provide it with bright, indirect light. Too little light can cause the pink to fade. Pruning green leaves can also encourage more variegated growth, but avoid over-pruning to prevent stress on the plant.

Where is the best place to put a Pink Princess Philodendron?

The best place for a Pink Princess Philodendron is in a spot that receives bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves. A room with high humidity, such as a bathroom or kitchen, is ideal, or you can use a humidity tray or humidifier to help the plant thrive.

Can a Pink Princess Philodendron get too much sun?

Yes, too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and fade the pink variegation. The plant thrives in bright, indirect light, which will help maintain its vibrant colors without causing damage.

Does the Pink Princess need a moss pole?

While not necessary, a moss pole can support the plant’s growth, especially if you want to encourage it to climb. It mimics the plant’s natural growing conditions and can help with larger, healthier leaves.

Is Pink Princess a climber?

Yes, the Pink Princess is a climbing plant. Providing a support structure like a moss pole can help the plant grow taller and produce larger leaves.

Do Pink Princess plants flower?

Pink Princess Philodendrons rarely flower indoors. Their attractive foliage is the main feature, and most growers focus on encouraging the colorful leaves rather than flowers.

How big can a Pink Princess plant get?

A Pink Princess Philodendron can grow up to 2-4 feet indoors, with proper care. When supported by a moss pole or trellis, it may grow taller as a climbing plant. In its native habitat, it can reach even greater heights.

How to make a Pink Princess grow faster?

To boost growth, ensure your Pink Princess gets plenty of bright, indirect light, maintain high humidity, and use a well-balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Keeping the plant in optimal conditions will encourage faster growth and healthy variegation.

Can you grow a Pink Princess from a cutting?

Yes, you can propagate a Pink Princess from a cutting. Make sure the cutting has at least one node, and place it in water or soil to root. With proper care, the cutting will develop roots and can be transplanted to grow into a new plant.

Do Pink Princess Philodendrons like small pots?

Pink Princess Philodendrons prefer being slightly root-bound, so they can do well in smaller pots. However, you should repot it when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes, as a larger pot encourages new growth.

How do you keep a Pink Princess bushy?

To keep your Pink Princess bushy, prune regularly to encourage branching. Pinching off new growth at the top will help the plant focus energy on lateral growth, leading to a fuller, bushier appearance. Providing ample light and proper care also supports denser foliage.

Can Pink Princess grow in water?

Yes, Pink Princess can grow in water. Many people propagate the plant by placing a cutting in water until it develops roots. However, for long-term growth, it’s recommended to transfer the plant to soil, as it provides better support and nutrients.