Philodendron Orange Princess

Philodendron ‘Orange Princess’ is a colourful tropical houseplant prized for its glossy foliage and warm orange, peach and copper tones. These brighter colours contrast beautifully with deeper green areas, creating a striking display that changes as new leaves develop.

The foliage can feature irregular splashes, marbling and larger patches of colour. Each leaf has its own pattern, with some showing more green and others displaying stronger orange or lighter markings. The amount and distribution of variegation naturally vary between plants and successive leaves.

New growth is often particularly vibrant, with shades that soften or deepen as the leaves mature. This changing combination of fresh colour and established foliage makes Orange Princess an attractive focal point among green houseplants.

With bright, filtered light, warmth and careful watering, it makes a rewarding addition to a houseplant collection. Young plants suit a bright shelf or plant stand, with room to accommodate larger foliage as they develop.

Philodendron Orange Princess care guide

Light

Provide bright, indirect light to support healthy growth. A position near an east-facing window or behind a sheer curtain in a brighter room can work well.

Protect the foliage from strong direct sunshine, particularly during summer. The paler sections can scorch, so increase light exposure gradually when moving the plant.

Good light supports the plant’s growth, but it cannot guarantee a particular amount or pattern of variegation.

Watering

Water when the top 2–3 cm of compost feels dry. Check with your finger before watering, as the time between drinks will depend on the light, temperature, pot size and growing medium.

Water thoroughly and allow excess water to drain away. Empty the saucer or decorative cover pot afterwards.

Avoid leaving the roots in constantly wet compost, but do not routinely allow the entire rootball to become completely dry.

Temperature

Aim for 18–27°C, keeping the plant above 15°C. Stable indoor warmth suits Philodendrons well.

Keep it away from cold draughts, chilly windowpanes and radiators. Sudden changes in temperature can stress the plant, particularly while new growth is developing.

Humidity

Orange Princess appreciates moderate to high humidity, although it can adapt to average household conditions.

If the air is particularly dry, a humidifier can help provide more consistent moisture around the foliage. A bright bathroom may also suit it, provided there is sufficient natural light and warmth. Maintain gentle airflow around the plant.

Compost and drainage

Use a loose, free-draining, peat-free aroid mix. Houseplant compost combined with orchid bark and perlite provides moisture retention while allowing air to reach the roots.

Always use a nursery pot with drainage holes. Avoid dense compost that remains saturated long after watering.

Feeding

Feed approximately once a month during active spring and summer growth with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser, following its dilution instructions.

Reduce or pause feeding when growth slows. Extra fertiliser will not increase variegation and can damage roots if applied too strongly.

Repotting

Repot when the roots have filled the container or the compost dries out unusually quickly. Spring is usually the best time.

Choose a pot only slightly larger than the existing rootball and refresh the growing medium. Avoid moving a small plant straight into a large container, where excess compost can remain wet for too long.

Support and maintenance

As the plant develops, add a stake or suitable support if the stems begin to lean or lengthen. Secure stems loosely without trapping leaf stalks or new growth.

Wipe dusty leaves gently with a soft, damp cloth. Remove dead or badly damaged foliage using clean scissors or secateurs, and wear gloves when pruning.

Common problems

• Yellowing leaves: Check for overly wet compost and poor drainage, especially if several leaves yellow together.

• Brown tips or edges: Review watering consistency, humidity and fertiliser strength.

• Drooping foliage: Check the compost before adding water; both dehydration and damaged roots can cause wilting.

• Slow growth or smaller leaves: Review light levels, temperature and whether the roots have