The Philodendron ‘Orange Princess’ is a highly sought-after Aroid prized for its striking, dynamic foliage. This hybrid cultivar introduces a rare shade of orange into the typical green tropical plant palette. Its popularity stems from its hardy genetics and uniquely colorful display, making it a focal point in any indoor garden.
Unique Characteristics and Growth Habit
The standout feature of the ‘Orange Princess’ is the dramatic color transformation of its leaves. New growth unfurls with a bright, luminous orange hue, a color rarely seen in Aroids. Over several weeks, the leaves gradually transition through shades of salmon and peach before hardening off to a deep, glossy green, often retaining subtle orange undertones near the veins.
The heart-shaped leaves can grow up to 10 inches long, providing a substantial, tropical appearance. Unlike vining Philodendrons, the ‘Orange Princess’ is self-heading, meaning it grows upward from a central, compact stem. This upright, bushy structure makes it a manageable and space-efficient plant, ideal for tabletops or shelves.
Providing Optimal Care
Proper lighting is necessary to ensure the ‘Orange Princess’ maintains its vibrant orange coloration. The plant flourishes best when receiving bright, indirect light, such as from an east-facing window. Insufficient light causes new leaves to emerge a duller shade, while direct sun can quickly scorch the foliage and lead to brown patches.
The correct watering regimen prevents common health issues. Let the top 1 to 2 inches of the soil dry out completely between waterings before soaking the soil thoroughly. Overwatering leads to saturated soil, which deprives the roots of oxygen and can trigger root rot.
For optimal growth, the ‘Orange Princess’ requires an airy, well-draining soil mixture. Amend standard potting soil with components like perlite, orchid bark, and coco coir to ensure good aeration and drainage. Ideal temperatures range from 65°F to 80°F. Humidity levels of 50% or higher support the leaf structure and prevent crispy edges, often achieved with a humidifier.
Propagating New Plants
Multiplying the ‘Orange Princess’ is primarily achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem section containing at least one or two nodes, which are the small bumps where leaves and aerial roots emerge. Use a clean, sharp blade to take a cutting just below a node to maximize successful rooting.
Once prepared, there are a few options for encouraging root development. The simplest method is water propagation, ensuring the nodes are submerged but the leaves remain above the surface. Alternatively, cuttings can be rooted in moist sphagnum moss or an airy potting mix. The rooting environment must be warm and offer bright, indirect light. Transfer the cutting to soil once the roots are about an inch long.
Diagnosing and Resolving Health Problems
Specific symptoms often indicate a deviation from the plant’s preferred environmental conditions. Yellowing leaves, especially on older foliage, frequently signal overwatering or poor drainage. If yellowing is accompanied by wilting, the problem may be root rot, requiring reduced watering and root inspection. Conversely, dull and drooping leaves suggest the plant is underwatered.
Crispy, brown tips or edges on the leaves point to low ambient humidity. Increasing the moisture in the air, perhaps with a humidifier, helps prevent the leaf tissue from drying out. Philodendrons can attract common houseplant pests, including spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips. Regular inspection and prompt treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can eliminate infestations.