Burgundy princess philodendron produces variegated leaves where the pink and cream patches shift with each new growth flush. If you are looking for a houseplant that feels like a living piece of art, the burgundy princess philodendron is a top contender. This plant has become a favorite among collectors because no two leaves ever look exactly the same.
You might be wondering if this plant is hard to care for. The truth is, it is not as fussy as people think, but it does have specific needs that you must meet. In this guide, you will learn everything about light, water, soil, and propagation so your plant can thrive.
What Makes The Burgundy Princess Philodendron Special
The main draw of this plant is its stunning foliage. The dark green leaves have a burgundy undertone, which is where the name comes from. On top of that base color, you get splashes of pink, cream, and sometimes even white.
This is a sport of the famous Pink Princess philodendron. However, the burgundy princess philodendron tends to have darker, more dramatic leaves. The variegation is often more stable, meaning you get consistent patches of color rather than just tiny specks.
Another great thing about this plant is its growth habit. It is a vining philodendron, so it will climb if you give it a moss pole. You can also let it trail from a hanging basket, which looks fantastic in a bright room.
Key Characteristics To Look For
- Leaf color: Deep green with burgundy tones
- Variegation: Pink, cream, and white patches
- Growth pattern: Vining and climbing
- Mature size: Can reach 3-4 feet indoors
- Light needs: Bright, indirect light
Light Requirements For Vibrant Variegation
Getting the light right is the most critical part of caring for this plant. If you give it too little light, the leaves will revert to solid green. If you give it too much direct sun, the leaves will burn and the pink patches will turn brown.
The sweet spot is bright, indirect light. A spot near an east-facing window is perfect. A north-facing window might be too dim, while a south or west window needs a sheer curtain to filter the harsh rays.
You will know the light is correct if the new leaves come out with strong pink and cream patches. If the new growth is mostly green, move the plant closer to the light source.
Signs Of Too Much Light
- Brown, crispy edges on the pink areas
- Leaves looking washed out or pale
- Leaf curling inward during the day
Signs Of Too Little Light
- New leaves are solid green
- Stems become leggy and stretched
- Growth slows down significantly
Watering Your Philodendron Correctly
Overwatering is the number one killer of this plant. The burgundy princess philodendron likes to dry out a little between waterings. You should stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it is time to water.
When you do water, give it a thorough drink until water runs out of the drainage holes. Do not let the plant sit in standing water. Empty the saucer after a few minutes to prevent root rot.
During the winter months, you will water less often. The plant goes into a slower growth phase, and the soil stays wet longer. Always check the soil before watering rather than following a strict schedule.
Best Watering Practices
- Check soil moisture with your finger
- Water only when the top inch is dry
- Water thoroughly until it drains out
- Empty the saucer after 10 minutes
- Reduce frequency in winter
Soil And Potting Mix
This plant needs a chunky, well-draining mix. Standard potting soil is too dense and will hold too much water. You want a mix that allows oxygen to reach the roots while still retaining some moisture.
A good recipe is equal parts potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark. The perlite helps with drainage, and the bark adds air pockets. This combination mimics the natural environment where these plants grow in the wild.
You should repot your burgundy princess philodendron every 1-2 years. Choose a pot that is only 1-2 inches larger than the current one. A pot that is too big will hold excess water and can cause root rot.
Recommended Soil Mix
- 1 part indoor potting soil
- 1 part perlite
- 1 part orchid bark
- Optional: A handful of worm castings for nutrients
Humidity And Temperature Needs
This plant comes from tropical regions, so it loves humidity. Average household humidity of 40-50% is usually fine. However, if you want larger leaves and faster growth, aim for 60% or higher.
You can increase humidity with a pebble tray, a humidifier, or by grouping plants together. Misting is not very effective and can lead to fungal issues on the leaves, so it is better to avoid it.
In terms of temperature, keep your plant between 65°F and 80°F. It does not like cold drafts or sudden temperature swings. Keep it away from air conditioning vents and drafty windows during the winter.
Fertilizing For Healthy Growth
Fertilizer helps your plant produce those beautiful variegated leaves. However, you do not need to overdo it. A balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength is perfect.
Feed your plant once a month during the growing season, which is spring and summer. Stop fertilizing in the fall and winter when growth naturally slows down.
Be careful with too much fertilizer. This can cause salt buildup in the soil, which leads to brown leaf tips. If you see white crust on the top of the soil, flush the pot with water to remove excess salts.
Fertilizing Schedule
- Use a balanced 20-20-20 fertilizer
- Dilute to half the recommended strength
- Apply once per month in spring and summer
- Skip fertilizing in fall and winter
- Flush soil every 3 months to prevent salt buildup
Pruning And Maintenance
Pruning is not strictly necessary, but it helps keep the plant full and bushy. If your plant gets leggy, you can cut it back to encourage branching. The cuttings can be propagated to make new plants.
You should also remove any leaves that are entirely green. This might seem counterintuitive, but solid green leaves can take over the plant. They grow faster than variegated leaves and will eventually crowd them out.
Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks. Dust can block light absorption and make the plant look dull. Clean leaves also help prevent pests like spider mites.
How To Propagate Burgundy Princess Philodendron
Propagation is easy and rewarding. You can create new plants from stem cuttings. The best time to propagate is during the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.
Here is a simple step-by-step guide to propagate your plant:
- Find a healthy stem with at least one node and one leaf
- Cut just below the node using clean scissors
- Place the cutting in a glass of water
- Make sure the node is submerged but the leaf is not
- Change the water every 3-4 days
- Wait for roots to grow to about 1-2 inches
- Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix
You can also propagate directly in soil. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and stick it into moist soil. Keep the soil consistently moist until roots form, which usually takes 3-4 weeks.
Common Pests And Problems
Like most houseplants, the burgundy princess philodendron can attract pests. The most common ones are spider mites, mealybugs, and fungus gnats. Regular inspection is the best way to catch problems early.
Spider mites are tiny and hard to see. You might notice fine webbing on the undersides of leaves. If you suspect spider mites, wipe the leaves with a damp cloth and treat with insecticidal soap.
Mealybugs look like small white cottony spots. They suck the sap from the plant and can weaken it. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them individually.
Common Issues And Solutions
- Yellow leaves: Usually overwatering, let soil dry out
- Brown crispy tips: Low humidity or too much fertilizer
- Leggy growth: Not enough light, move to a brighter spot
- Reverting to green: Too little light, increase brightness
- Drooping leaves: Underwatering, give a thorough drink
Is The Burgundy Princess Philodendron Rare?
This plant used to be quite rare and expensive. However, it has become more available in recent years as tissue culture propagation has increased. You can now find it at many plant nurseries and online stores.
The price can still vary a lot depending on the variegation. Plants with high variegation and multiple pink patches will cost more. A cutting with just one leaf can be cheaper, but it will take longer to grow into a full plant.
If you are on a budget, look for a smaller plant or a cutting. With proper care, it will grow quickly and you will not have to wait too long for a beautiful specimen.
Burgundy Princess Vs Pink Princess
Many people confuse these two plants. The pink princess philodendron has lighter green leaves with more vivid pink variegation. The burgundy princess philodendron has darker leaves with a reddish-burgundy undertone.
The burgundy variety tends to have more stable variegation. This means it is less likely to revert to solid green. It also tends to be a bit more forgiving with lower light conditions.
If you already have a pink princess, the burgundy princess philodendron is a great addition to your collection. They look stunning together and have similar care requirements.
Final Care Summary
To keep your plant happy, remember these key points. Give it bright, indirect light. Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Use a chunky, well-draining mix. Keep humidity above 50% if possible. Fertilize monthly during the growing season.
With the right care, your burgundy princess philodendron will reward you with stunning leaves. Each new leaf will be a surprise, with different patterns of pink and cream. This is a plant that you will enjoy watching grow for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is My Burgundy Princess Philodendron Losing Its Pink Color?
The most common reason is insufficient light. Move your plant to a brighter location with indirect sunlight. If the new leaves are coming out green, increase light gradually to avoid shock.
Can I Grow This Plant In Low Light?
It will survive in low light but will not thrive. The variegation will fade, and growth will slow down. For the best results, provide bright, filtered light.
How Fast Does This Plant Grow?
In optimal conditions, it can grow several inches per month during spring and summer. Growth slows down in winter. Providing a moss pole can encourage larger leaves and faster vertical growth.
Is This Plant Toxic To Pets?
Yes, all philodendrons contain calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic to cats and dogs. If ingested, it can cause mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting. Keep it out of reach of pets.
Why Are The New Leaves Coming Out Small?
Small new leaves usually indicate insufficient light or lack of nutrients. Try moving the plant to a brighter spot and resume regular fertilizing during the growing season.
The burgundy princess philodendron is a rewarding plant for any houseplant lover. It is not too demanding, and the visual payoff is huge. With the tips in this guide, you are ready to grow a healthy, vibrant plant. Just be patient, observe your plant, and adjust care as needed. Your efforts will be rewarded with beautiful, variegated leaves that make this plant so special.