Philodendron Types: Most Popular Varieties to Grow

Philodendron plants are not one specific plant, rather it is a genus of plants known formally as Araceae.

It is a popular houseplant because of its low maintenance and effortless care needs.

There are over 450 varieties of Philodendron plants that come in various sizes and shapes. Some produce a spectacular display of complex leaves and some bloom delicate flowers.

But, there is one characteristic that one can categorize philodendron plants, and that is whether they are climbers or crawlers (also can be called creepers)

Philodendrons are climbing or crawling plants. The terms “crawling” and “creeping” merely refer to the horizontal growth of the plant’s stems along the ground. In contrast, climbers have aerial roots (spikes on their stems) that may grasp any upright structure (such as a trellis or moss pole) and “climb,” or grow taller.

Some are climbers that can cover entire walls, while others may pass for little indoor trees.

In general, philodendron plants originate from the rain forests of South America, but some hybrids are bred by botanists.

In this article, we have selected over 20 of the most popular Philodendron varieties to give you ideas and inspiration on what plant to grow in your garden and home.

What Is A Philodendron Plant?

Philodendron plants have plenty of extremely popular varieties and are a very popular genus plant to grow.

They are not only beautiful plants but are hardy and robust, simple to propagate, have diverse leaf shapes, textures, sizes, and colors, and are very low-maintenance plants.

Philodendron is a large genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Araceae.

All varieties of Philodendron bloom in colorful displays of delicate flowers and intricate leaves.

Anyone can grow these low-maintenance species as indoor plants.

There are more than 450 varieties of Philodendron plants that exist today.

Some are climbers and used to decorate an entire wall, while others stand upright and can be grown as houseplants.

Their beautiful glossy leaves enhance their beauty even more. The most common leaf shapes are oval, spear, sword, or lanceolate-shaped leaves.

They originate from the South American rainforests. You can identify these plants by their aerial and underground roots and larger leaves.

The  Philodendron varieties belong to the aroids class, and that’s why they can grow well in warm climates outdoors and indoors.

Due to this characteristic, they are an excellent choice for the new gardeners. You may either grow them in containers or in hanging baskets.

They are also known for their ability to filter air pollutants.

Their large leaves are excellent air purifiers, as they can absorb polluting particles and release clean oxygen.

Also, they are very hardy and may grow up to 3-meters if provided the favorable conditions.

Before growing them, make sure you check their requirements because a few varieties prefer low-intensity light.

Remember that Philodendron plants are considered toxic to domestic animals and may even cause skin problems and irritation if mishandled [1].

These species provide fruit and bloom flowers in the wild, but they will no longer produce flowers when you grow them indoors. 

For other related posts on other houseplants, please see our page on other types of houseplants to grow.

Related posts on philodendrons:

• How to Prune Split Leaf Philodendrons

Two Major Types of Philodendrons

There are two major types of Philodendron plants:

1. Vining or climbing Philodendrons, and
2. Non-climbing Philodendrons.

They differ in shapes, sizes, and colors. Vining ones require support for their growth, while non-climbing ones stand upright.

You can choose one of them based on your decoration purpose. Climbing Philodendron varieties look best when grown in hanging baskets.

These plants have heart-shaped leaves. People plant them to decorate the ceiling, balcony, or high shelves with their long beautiful stems.

You may also find variegated Philodendrons named Pink Princess and Brasil.

Some of the varieties have glossy green, dark green leaves, or green heartleaf on the Philodendron.

Non-climbing Philodendron varieties have split and larger leaves. Sometimes the leaves become so big that they require support to stand.

These are slow-growing plants compared to the vining ones. 

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Most Popular Philodendron Types

Philodendron Birkin

This heartleaf Philodendron has a unique radial pattern with dark green background.

This entertaining plant is a low-maintenance plant and grows slowly. They can eventually reach more than two feet.

These varieties are susceptible to root rot.

The stripes begin from the center of the leaves and end at the edges. These thin and intense stripes enhance the beauty even more.

Philodendron birkin is a non-climbing variety. They stand upright with strong stems where the heart-shaped leaves stay attached.

This decorative species is an excellent choice for designing apartments.

While growing them, make sure to plant them in soil that retains water well but does not stay wet.

Coco peat or peat moss can be used to prepare this type of potting mix.

Philodendron birkin thrives well in bright indirect light, which is quite common in the tropical garden.

If you want to grow them outdoors, you must give them a tropical environment. Do not keep them under direct sun for a prolonged period.

Philodendron Micans

Philodendron micans are a handsome species in this family. They have heart-shaped leaves with tiny hairs, which give them an iridescent hue.

Based on the light intensity and the way of hitting, the foliage looks different. It seems that the foliage reflects light.

Sometimes, the colors change even to bronze, dark green, or light green.

The underside of the younger leaves has a red color with a velvety texture. When these heart-shaped leaves become matured, the leaves become smooth.

They can be beautiful species of hanging plants. Due to their fantastic shape and light green veins, you can use them to decorate your living room.

Philodendron micans can grow up to 6 feet. So, place them in a large and spacious room.

If you plan to plant them in your indoor garden, you should keep them near a bright window.

These plants grow very quickly if you can meet their requirements.

This heartleaf Philodendron micans requires moderate to high humidity to grow.

Use a well-balanced potting mix that is well-draining and can retain moisture for a prolonged period.

Though it does not need fertilizers, you may supply them during the growing season. It will ensure strong growth to its full potential.

Philodendron Brasil

Philodendron brasil has a fascinating look, and its requirement is very low.

Beginners can easily grow this variety as they are easy to maintain. It is considered a hardy plant. 

The center of the heart-shaped leaves has lime green, white, or cream-colored stripes. You will also notice yellow splotches throughout the leaves.

As a vining plant, Philodendron brasil looks excellent if you can grow it in a hanging basket. 

This variety grows well in bright sunlight, but it can tolerate medium sun as well.

To maintain the lovely variegation of leaf colors, you should place them in bright light.

Low light can turn the colors all green. It can also slow down growth.

This heartleaf Philodendron prefers slightly moist soil.

Completely dry soil can cause it to wilt, which ruins its beautiful appearance. Also, the soggy condition can damage the roots.

Use a mixture of perlite, peat moss, and coco peat to prepare the potting mix.

If you are growing them in a container, you should prepare them for repotting after two years. 

Philodendron Cordatum

Now we are with the world’s longest Philodendron species-Philodendron cordatum. Its vine can grow to 340 meters in length if you provide space.

It is considered the longest monocot plant. The heart-shaped leaves have a beautiful emerald green color. 

You may find this Philodendron cultivar in many indoor gardens because it is straightforward to grow and has lower requirements.

You can keep Philodendron cordatum in any lighting condition except low light.

The natural habitat of this epiphytic plant is in the forests of the Caribbean and Central America.

Like most species of Philodendron, this variety prefers bright conditions, but they can adapt to medium and low light.

To ensure proper growth, you can rotate the plants. The humidity requirement is moderate to high.

Before you water them, check the moisture status in the soil. If you feel that the soil is half dried, then water it deeply.

This heartleaf Philodendron grows well in slightly moist conditions.

However, the frequency of watering differs from region to region. Curly leaves are a great indicator that your plants are thirsty.

Philodendron Xanadu

This upright Philodendron species has an attractive appearance.

If you plan to buy a couple of species from the Philodendron family, we will suggest you choose this one.

The shiny green leaves enhance the beauty of these plants even more. 

You will find these varieties wider than their height. They may reach around 4 feet in length.

These versatile plants are mainly used as groundcovers in warmer regions. While growing as indoor plants, you must provide them with brighter light.

Remember that they require more light than other species.

Philodendron xanadu is also called a split-leaf Philodendron cultivar because of its dark green split leaves. The leaves look thick, strong, and sculptural.

It is recommended to water this plant before the soil becomes dry.

Water the soil deeply to ensure that the soil pores have retained the required moisture for the plants.

Yellow leaves indicate that the soil is too wet, and this condition may damage the root system. During the winter months, they grow slowly.

You will easily identify the nutrient deficiency. If the leaves become smaller and there is no new growth, it is time to feed the plant.

Philodendron Selloum

Philodendron selloum is also known as “Lacy Tree Philodendron” and has a similar appearance to the Xanadu variety.

You can easily identify the difference by observing the leaves. The leaves of Philodendron selloum are shiny, large, and waxy with deep lobes.

The size of the leaves increases with time as the plant matures. After reaching the maximum size, the leaves begin to drop.

Make sure that you have sufficient space to grow a Lacy Tree, Philodendron, as your indoor plant.

This upright Philodendron can reach approximately 3 feet in length.

This plant cannot tolerate excess salts in water. Therefore, it is safe to water them using distilled or rainwater.

The aerial roots can absorb both nutrients and water. Remember that this plant is very toxic to pets and children.

This lacy tree Philodendron thrives well in bright and medium light, but low light can ruin the color. Water the plants when the soil becomes a little drier.

They prefer slightly moist conditions to grow. Feed these plants with a balanced fertilizer during their growing season.

Philodendron Pink Princess

Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ is undoubtedly one of the most attractive plants that have lovely leaves. The unique color pattern makes it very beautiful.

The leaves are variegated with pink spots, and this color may vary from tints to cream to full pink.

The combination of pink color and deep green leaves gives the plant a royal look. The leaves may grow around 8-inches in length.

This variety grows slowly and requires indirect sun. If you fulfill the requirements of this plant, it will stay glamorous.

The propagation of this plant is relatively easy. Remember that you should select the portion that has variegation.

Otherwise, the color will be entirely green or lack variegation, turning it into what plant breeders jokingly call “the green prince.” The White Princess is another variety close to this. 

Water the plant when the soil seems dry. Like the other Philodendron varieties, they cannot tolerate completely dry soil.

Also, do not overwater the plants as it can cause root rot.

Pink Princess can grow at normal humidity levels, but it is better to increase the humidity using a humidifier.

Philodendron Gloriosum

Philodendron gloriosum has dark green foliage with fascinating white veins. It is an upright type of Philodendron that requires a lot of space.

The velvety leaves can grow a maximum of 3-feet. The woody stems arch in various directions, which provide this species a unique appearance. 

Philodendron gloriosum grows best in partial shade or shady areas.

Like the other varieties, they enjoy slightly moist soil. This variety is native to Columbia.

A grower can easily maintain this species in average temperatures, but it cannot tolerate too wet or cold conditions.

It looks a bit flimsy in its younger stage, but as time progresses, it becomes stronger. The leaf colors vary depending on what growth stage it is in.

At the mature stage, the color changes to beautiful emerald green. It is better to plant Philodendron gloriosum indoors.

While preparing a potting mix for growing this species, make sure that you use organic soil that drains well.

Clayey or heavy soil is too dense for this plant’s roots. The soil should be damp. So, check the moisture level before watering the plants.

Philodendron Hederaceum

This green heartleaf Philodendron is one of the most popular varieties of the Philodendron family. This variety is interesting and very easy to grow.

If you are a newbie in gardening, we would like to suggest you start with this one.

Philodendron hederaceum has heart-shaped and glossy foliage, which is indeed attractive. They are climbers and can grow up to four feet.

To accelerate new growth, you may pinch a part of the stem close to a node. It will give the plant a bushy appearance.

People grow this vining philodendron mainly in hanging baskets.

You do not have to worry about its requirements because it can tolerate moderate to high humid conditions.

If you can give them a tropical feeling, they will grow fast.

This trailing plant prefers growing under bright but indirect light. Use a well-draining mix to grow them in containers.

Like the other varieties, they like slightly moist soil. So, water the plants when the soil seems a little bit drier. Don’t let the soil dry thoroughly.

Philodendron Bipinnatifidum

Philodendron bipinnatifidum is one of the oldest varieties in the Philodendron genus.

You can easily distinguish it by its large leaves that have deep lobes. The leaves can reach 1.5-meters in length. The trunk of this species is thicker.

These plants produce beautiful flowers after 15-20 years if grown indoors with limited space.

The flowers look small and are usually inflorescent or white-colored. Philodendron bipinnatifidum stands upright and is native to South America.

Do not chew or ingest the leaves as they can cause irritation and severe pain in your respiratory system.

These plants usually grow under full sun, but they can tolerate full shade also.

Remember that the leaves may lose their attractive colors in the absence of sufficient light.

To prepare the potting mix, you should mix compost, perlite, gravel, and coco coir. It will create an ideal mix.

Keep the soil slightly moist and water the plants when the soil looks too dry. The ideal temperature range is between 60- to 75-degrees Fahrenheit.

Philodendron Melanochrysum

Philodendron Melanochrysum is also called black gold Philodendron, which is quite a favorite to many gardeners.

If you like dark green leafy plants, then this variety can be a good choice for you.

It is similar to the Micans variety, but you may distinguish Melanochrysum by its almost black leaves.

During its younger stage, the leaves’ color is reddish, but it slowly turns dark as the plant matures.

It can grow up to 2 feet long if the grower can fulfill its requirements. In the adult stage, the plant starts climbing and requires support for further growth.

If you decide to grow this dark variety of Philodendron, then remember that you have to take care of this species more than other Philodendron varieties.

Also, you can find them easily in the nurseries, but they are pricey. 

You should provide it with filtered light. Direct sun can burn the leaves. Keep the potting mix moist, or the leaves will start to wilt.

Since these plants are native to South America, they will become happy if they experience increased humidity.

Philodendron Verrucosum

Philodendron verrucosum has beautiful triangular and shiny leaves. These plants can reach a maximum of two feet in length.

They look unique because of the combination of pale veins and green color. This species is considered an upright Philodendron.

During its younger stage, the underside of the leaves has a reddish color which changes as the plant matures.

This velvet leaf Philodendron is a vining species. Many people consider this plant relatively easy to grow, but this is not the case.

Philodendron verrucosum plants require a higher humidity level than other indoor varieties. That’s why growing this plant is a little bit harder than others.

Watering is also important. Low moisture status is responsible for crispy leaves.

If you grow them as houseplants, then it is important to prepare the right potting mix.

The soil should drain well, and at the same time, it should retain moisture for the plants.

Root aeration is essential as it can protect the roots from any damage.

Philodendron Brandtianum

Philodendron brandtianum has beautiful variegated leaves, which gives it a unique appearance.

This variety has a similar appearance to other heartleaf Philodendron types.

People love this plant due to its unique olive green color with silver stripes between the veins.

You may use this plant for decoration purposes as it is ideal for offices and living rooms.

If you can provide them with a favorable conditions, they will grow around 4 to 5 feet long.

It looks best when grown in hanging baskets. They are also known as the Trailing Philodendron due to their climbing nature.

You have to provide support if they grow too big. This vining Philodendron removes toxic elements from the air.

Like the other species, you can easily grow and take care of this variety. It cannot tolerate freezing temperatures.

If you plan to have them for your outdoor gardens, we would strongly suggest otherwise, as they are mostly grown indoors.

You are going to love this unique variety primarily due to its variegated leaves. Unlike the other plants, this Philodendron cultivar grows bushier. 

Remember that you have to plant them in fertile soil, and the container must have drainage holes to drain out excess water.

To improve the overall quality of the potting mix, you may incorporate compost.

During the growing season, water the soil deeply because they prefer moist soil. Be careful of overwatering, which may damage the roots.

Do not plant them in sandy soils because they cannot retain essential nutrients.

Philodendron Erubescens

Now we will be discussing an amazing variety that can be grown as an indoor plant.

Philodendron erubescens is native to tropical climates like South America and Costa Rica.

These plants are climbers, and they can grow to approximately 5 feet.

The combination of dark green and pink gives it a unique look. The pinkish area lacks chlorophyll.

To maintain this variegated form, you should expose them to indirect or filtered light. In its natural habitat, this plant grows with longer leaves.

If you are planning to buy a Philodendron variety, then we recommend you begin with this one. They are hardy and can tolerate drought.

You only need to supply humidity and keep the area warm for better growth. They are straightforward to grow.

We suggest using loamy soil for preparing the potting mix. If you find your garden soil clayey or too heavy, you can add sand and gravel.

Water the plants before the soil dries out completely. Never overwater this plant. Fertilize them two times per month using a balanced houseplant fertilizer.

Philodendron Prince of Orange

Prince of Orange is one of the most popular Philodendron types because of its beautiful color combination.

At the young stage, the leaves stay bright orange, and over time, they turn green. Newer leaves and petioles look very astonishing. 

The Prince of Orange Philodendron is an upright variety and produces a dense cluster of those fascinating leaves.

If anyone can fulfill the requirements, they can grow happily and reach around 2 feet in height.

This hardy species is considered ideal for growing as a houseplant.

The ideal place to grow Philodendron Prince of Orange is in a brighter location but away from sunlight.

If you place them under full sun, they will lose their variegated form and turn green. Watering is another important factor, like sunlight. 

Water this orange Philodendron cultivar when the topsoil becomes dry. You may identify the wilting stage by observing the condition of the leaves.

If the leaves start falling, then you must water the plants. As tropical plants, they prefer to thrive in high humidity levels.

Philodendron Florida Ghost

Florida Ghost Philodendron is named mainly due to its pale and white leaves, which somewhat resemble flying ghosts.

Don’t worry because they are not that scary. This beautiful plant is straightforward to grow.

To grow this variegated Philodendron Florida ghost plant, you should focus on its moisture and light requirements.

Like most other Philodendron types, this variety prefers moist soil. To keep this variegated color, make sure that they receive indirect sun.

This plant becomes dormant during the winter months, and you do not have to worry about feeding or watering.

However, you may water it once a week. When spring arrives, feed the plant with a balanced household fertilizer to encourage new growth.

Never overwater the plants as they cannot stand soggy conditions.

Also, keeping them under direct sun for a prolonged period can ruin the attractive pale color of the leaves.

Philodendron Florida Ghost (or Florida Beauty)

Philodendron Florida Beauty is one of the fascinating Philodendron types.

This evergreen plant is regarded as a cross between Philodendron pedatum and Philodendron squamiferum.

Long green foliage, thin stems, and cream-colored flowers have increased the demand for this plant.

Florida Ghosts can tolerate temperatures as low as 65 degrees Fahrenheit, but the Florida Beauty is not as cold-hardy as the Ghost.

It requires temperatures between 55 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, you should take care of this plant during winter.

There are a few pests that can ruin the beauty of the leaves. Aphids, Mealybugs, and Red Spider Mites are some common pests of Philodendron.

If your room has an air conditioner, then keep this plant away. 

Tropical plants love humid conditions. So, use a humidifier to increase the humidity.

You may provide medium sunlight to maintain the beauty. Plant them in well-drained soil. 

Philodendron Hastatum (Silver Sword)

This trailing Philodendron is a rare variety. It has metallic or silver-colored foliage. You can plant this species in hanging baskets indoors.

They can be a great addition to your tropical garden. The sharp, sword-like leaf shape gives it a unique look.

The delicate pale veining enhances the overall beauty of this plant.

This is considered an endangered Philodendron plant. The silver sword is native to the Brazilian rainforests. You will find this beautiful variety easy to grow.

The propagation system is easy as well. The ideal temperature of this plant is regarded as 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Like most other Philodendron plants, the Silver Sword prefers bright to the moderate indirect sun.

Intense and full sun for a prolonged period can burn those beautiful leaves or even change the colors of the leaves. 

It is better to place them in an East or North-facing window.

Regular watering seems reasonable, but do not overwater them as it can damage the roots. They cannot tolerate suffocating conditions.

While preparing the potting soil, make drainage holes to drain excess water.

Philodendron Pedatum

This Philodendron plant is also called Oak Leaf Philodendron. It grows faster than most other Philodendron types.

One may take care of this variety easily due to its low maintenance requirements.

The unusual and dark green leaves make it a common plant species among beginners.

At the young stage, the plant starts with green leaves, similar to most other Philodendron types.

This split-leaf Philodendron plant has a similar appearance to the Monstera species.

Philodendron xanadu is considered the cousin of Philodendron pedatum due to their similar structure and leaf shape.

With time, you will also notice those aerial roots coming out from every direction.

Like the Philodendron xanadu, they prefer indirect and bright light. However, they can also withstand low light.

Fast draining potting soil is required for planting them.

To prepare it, you can use a blend of pumice, coco coir, sphagnum moss, vermicompost, or other potting supplements to promote good draining soil.

It will ensure airflow and, at the time, retain moisture.

Philodendron Mamei

This heartleaf Philodendron is undoubtedly a magnificent variety due to its mesmerizing beauty. The heart-shaped leaves have silvery markings.

That’s why you may also know it as the Silver Cloud plant.

These plants should be grown in hanging baskets, and after a certain period, you can move them to a pot.

Nowadays, many people grow this heartleaf Philodendron in their gardens.

When these plants mature, they become unrecognizable due to their massive size compared to the younger stage. 

Remember that, like other Philodendron types, it is toxic to pets because of calcium oxalate.

At the same time, it improves the air quality by eliminating formaldehyde.

While growing them in containers, make sure that you use organically rich soil with a blend of perlite, pumice, gravels, or other minerals.

It will improve the drainage system of the soil. Philodendron mamei can tolerate low light, but it will grow best when kept under filtered light.

Philodendron Burle Marx

This green heartleaf Philodendron is one of the most popular types of Philodendron. They have a velvety texture and a low shrub.

The leaves are elongated with a narrow point. The glossy, green leaves enhance the beauty of these types of Philodendron.

However, the color of the stems is reddish.

People love growing these plants in tropical garden beds because these plants do not require much care and are easy to grow.

This upright philodendron eliminates toxic materials from the air, keeping it fresh.

Philodendron Burle Marx requires well-drained soil to grow. Use perlite, pumice, coco coir, and other materials to prepare an ideal houseplant potting mix.

Water the plant when the topsoil seems dry. This plant needs indirect sunlight to thrive. Direct sun for an extended period may burn the leaves.

Temperature is an essential factor for this variety.

If it falls below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, it will grow slowly, and if it drops lower than 50 degrees Fahrenheit, the plant will stop growing.

Philodendron Moonlight

Philodendron moonlight is one of the most attractive types of Philodendron. This bright green-leafed Philodendron reaches a maximum height of two feet.

At the younger stage, the leaves have a lime green color, and as the plant becomes mature, the color becomes bright green.

Philodendron moonlight grows happily in partially shady areas. However, they can tolerate low-intensity light as well.

To maintain its beautiful color, ensure that you keep them in the right place, out of direct sunlight.

For good coloration, try to place this upright Philodendron in bright light conditions.

This plant enjoys a temperature between 65 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature falls below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, then it may inhibit the growth.

As a tropical variety, they prefer more than 50% humidity.

Philodendron moonlight enjoys moderate watering. Before you water these plants, check the soil.

If the top 1-inch soil looks dry, then you may water the plants.

For fertilization, you may use a well-balanced fertilizer during its growing season, which is from spring to summer.

Philodendron Lemon Lime

Philodendron lemon lime plant has beautiful lime green leaves like the Moonlight variety.

It has all the typical characteristics of an ordinary light green heartleaf Philodendron.

The catchy foliage color and the beautiful leaf pattern are the main reasons for being so popular.

This lemon-lime variety is straightforward to grow. Interestingly, they grow well in different light conditions, but be careful of the intense light.

They prefer to thrive in bright but filtered light. It will help them to maintain the catchy lime color.

It is a common plant in schools, homes, offices, and shopping centers.

Since it is a tropical plant, you can keep it with other plants to maintain a good humidity level.

You may also grow it as a vining plant in a hanging basket. 

These plants improve the air quality by removing contaminants from the air. Fertilize them occasionally during the growing season.

Water the plants when the soil looks dry. Prune the tips to make the plant bushier.

Philodendron White Knight

The White Knight variety is a special type of Philodendron, but it is extremely rare. The leaves have a combination of emerald green and white color.

They are native to tropical forests in South America. Due to its popularity, you will find it to be very expensive.

Depending on the maturity and size, the price may range from $250 to over $500!

Since they are native to tropical forests, they will grow happily if you provide a tropical-like climate and environment, meaning high humidity, filtered sun, and moisture.

The leaves of this variety are hypersensitive to the intense and direct sun.

We recommend you place them in a spot that receives filtered sunlight.

Also, do not place them in the shady area because the leaves become pale green if they do not receive enough filtered sunlight. 

Once the plant loses its beautiful color, you will find it too hard to regain the variegation.

Like other Philodendrons, the White Knight prefers slightly moist soil.

Maintain the soil moisture level carefully because too much moisture can destroy the roots.

FAQs

Conclusion

The varieties provided in this article are the most popular types of Philodendron that you can grow in your garden, indoors, and outdoors.

They are straightforward to grow. You only have to be careful about the light and water requirements.

Any imbalances in these two factors can ruin the beauty of your Philodendron varieties. 

References