Philodendron White Princess - another plant collector`s dream, hard to come by, with beautiful green and white variegated pointy leaves.
Very similar to the other highly sort after White Knight and White Wizard, just with slightly different colouration to the stem, and slightly more pointed leaves once mature.
The white variegation next to the dark glossy green of the leaf is absolutely striking. One of the fascinating parts of growing these plants is seeing how each and every new leaf will unfurl to reveal how much, or how little variegation it has. It`s worth a reminder that any form of plant variegation is due to the natural presence of chlorophyll missing from part of the leaf. This means that a happy, healthy plant needs a balance of natural green and variegation to synthesise sunlight for energy. Don`t be inclined to prune away the greener leaves which keep the plant alive.
White Princess is another vining Philodendron so will eventually need a moss pole to cling to and climb as it matures.
Another highly recognised plant that remove toxins and purifies the air in your home.
Secrets of success:
As with most sub–tropical jungle plants Philodendron thrive in bright, indirect light, this mimics sun light through the jungle canopy. A little early morning, or late afternoon sun will enhance the leaf colour, but you must avoid direct Summer sun as the leaves will scorch.
From Spring until late Summer water thoroughly, about once a week, then allow the top 20-30% of compost to dry out before watering again. If kept in shade it may take a little longer to dry, so don`t be hasty, it`s best to be a little cautious to avoid overwatering. If possible use rainwater, or tap water that has been allowed to stand for 24 hours.
Room temperatures between 18-25c are fine.
Fertilise regularly through Spring and Summer , once every 2-3 weeks, with a half strength balanced liquid feed.
During colder months in heated rooms increase the humidity around your plant. Group together with other plants, stand on a tray of moist gravel, or an occasional misting will increase the moisture in the air around your plant.
Allow to grow until it reaches the maximum size that space allows, you can then prune them to remain that size.
Make the most of the plant by keeping the leaves clean and dust free by wiping with a soft damp cloth.
Minimum Temp: 16c
Aftercare:
In Winter, when temperatures are cooler and growth is slow, reduce the amount and frequency of water, and do not fertilise. Make sure to allow the top half of the compost to dry between watering, again this may take a little while, so don`t be hasty, most problems arise from over watering.
Re-pot in Spring once the roots have filled the current size pot, approx. every 2 years. Only use a slightly larger pot and good quality free draining compost, a big pot with too much compost will hold too much water.
Common leaf problems are brown tips indicating dry air, or yellow leaves too much water.
Warnings: The plant contains raphides, crystals of calcium oxalate, to deter livestock from eating them. Therefore problematic to pets and humans if consumed. Causes irritation and swelling in the mouth. Best practice is to keep out of reach.
