The strawberry shake plant produces pink blooms that resemble berries, creating confusion among first-time growers. This unique Philodendron variety has become a favorite for collectors who want something different from the usual green houseplants. Its speckled leaves and pink stems make it stand out in any indoor garden.
You might be wondering if this plant actually smells like a strawberry milkshake. It doesn’t. The name comes from the visual appearance of the leaves, which look like they have been splashed with strawberry syrup. It is a stunning plant that requires specific care to keep those pink variegations bright.
In this guide, you will learn everything about growing and caring for this beautiful plant. We will cover light, water, soil, and common problems you might face.
What Is A Strawberry Shake Plant
The strawberry shake plant is a hybrid cultivar of the Philodendron genus. It is known scientifically as Philodendron ‘Strawberry Shake’. This plant is not a true strawberry, nor is it a shake. It is a climbing aroid that produces large, glossy leaves with unique color patterns.
The leaves display a mix of green, cream, and pink splashes. The intensity of the pink color depends on the amount of light the plant receives. New growth often emerges with a deep red or pink hue before settling into the mature variegated pattern.
This plant is considered a rare and expensive find in the houseplant community. Because it is a slow grower and difficult to propagate, prices remain high. However, with proper care, you can enjoy this living piece of art for many years.
Origin And History
This plant was developed through selective breeding in a nursery. It is not found in the wild. The parent plants are native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. The goal was to create a plant with stable pink variegation that could be grown indoors.
The strawberry shake plant is often confused with the Pink Princess Philodendron. The difference is in the variegation pattern. Pink Princess has solid pink blocks, while Strawberry Shake has a more speckled, marbled look. The stems of the Strawberry Shake are also a distinct pink or red color.
Light Requirements For The Strawberry Shake Plant
Getting the light right is the most important part of caring for this plant. The strawberry shake plant needs bright, indirect light to maintain its pink coloration. Too little light will cause the leaves to revert to green. Too much direct sun will burn the leaves.
Place your plant near an east-facing window or a few feet away from a south or west-facing window. A sheer curtain can help filter harsh afternoon sunlight. You want the plant to receive plenty of light without the sun shining directly on the leaves.
Signs Of Improper Lighting
- Leaves turning completely green: Not enough light
- Brown, crispy patches on leaves: Too much direct sun
- Leggy stems with long gaps between leaves: Not enough light
- Pink color fading to pale cream: Light levels are too low
If you do not have a bright window, you can use a grow light. LED grow lights work well for this plant. Place the light about 12 inches above the plant and leave it on for 10-12 hours a day. This will help maintain the vibrant colors.
Watering Your Strawberry Shake Plant
The strawberry shake plant likes to stay evenly moist but never soggy. Overwatering is the most common way to kill this plant. The roots are susceptible to rot if they sit in water for too long. You should wait until the top two inches of soil are dry before watering again.
Stick your finger into the soil to check moisture levels. If it feels dry at the second knuckle, it is time to water. When you do water, water thoroughly until it runs out of the drainage holes. Empty the saucer after a few minutes so the plant is not sitting in standing water.
Water Quality Matters
This plant is sensitive to chemicals in tap water. Fluoride and chlorine can cause leaf tip burn. It is best to use filtered water, rainwater, or distilled water. If you must use tap water, let it sit out overnight to allow the chlorine to evaporate.
During the winter months, the plant grows slower and needs less water. You might only need to water every 10-14 days. In the summer, you may need to water every 5-7 days. Always check the soil first before watering.
Soil And Potting Mix For The Strawberry Shake Plant
A well-draining potting mix is essential for the strawberry shake plant. The roots need oxygen and should not be packed in dense soil. A chunky aroid mix works best. You can buy a pre-made mix or make your own.
Here is a simple recipe for a good soil mix:
- 2 parts high-quality potting soil
- 1 part perlite
- 1 part orchid bark
- 1 part coco coir or peat moss
This mix retains moisture while allowing excess water to drain quickly. The orchid bark also provides air pockets for the roots. This is important for preventing root rot and encouraging healthy growth.
When To Repot
You should repot your strawberry shake plant every 1-2 years. Repot in the spring when the plant is actively growing. Choose a pot that is only 1-2 inches larger than the current one. A pot that is too large can hold excess water and cause root rot.
When repotting, gently loosen the roots and remove any dead or mushy parts. Place the plant in the new pot and fill with fresh soil mix. Water lightly and keep the plant in a shaded area for a few days to recover.
Temperature And Humidity Needs
This tropical plant thrives in warm conditions. The ideal temperature range is between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Do not let the temperature drop below 55°F (13°C). Cold drafts can cause leaf damage and stunt growth.
Humidity is also important. The strawberry shake plant prefers humidity levels of 60% or higher. In most homes, the humidity is around 40-50%. You can increase humidity by using a humidifier, placing a tray of water near the plant, or grouping it with other plants.
How To Increase Humidity
- Use a small humidifier near the plant
- Place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water
- Mist the leaves regularly (though this is less effective)
- Keep the plant in a bright bathroom or kitchen
Brown, crispy edges on the leaves are a sign of low humidity. If you see this, increase the humidity around the plant. The new leaves will come in healthy if the conditions are right.
Fertilizing The Strawberry Shake Plant
Regular feeding helps the strawberry shake plant produce vibrant new growth. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. You should fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, which is spring and summer.
Do not fertilize in the fall and winter. The plant is not actively growing and the salts can build up in the soil, causing root damage. Always water the plant before fertilizing to avoid burning the roots with concentrated fertilizer.
Best Fertilizer Types
A fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 20-20-20 works well. You can also use a fertilizer specifically formulated for aroids or houseplants. Some growers prefer to use a slow-release fertilizer mixed into the soil during repotting.
Watch for signs of over-fertilization. If you see yellowing leaves or white crust on the soil surface, you are feeding too much. Flush the soil with water to remove excess salts and reduce the frequency of feeding.
Pruning And Propagation
Pruning is not strictly necessary but helps maintain a bushy shape. You can trim back leggy vines to encourage new growth. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Make your cuts just above a node, which is where the leaf meets the stem.
Propagation is the best way to get more plants or share with friends. The strawberry shake plant is easy to propagate through stem cuttings. Here is how to do it:
- Cut a stem that has at least one node and one leaf
- Place the cutting in water or moist sphagnum moss
- Keep it in bright, indirect light
- Wait for roots to grow to about 1-2 inches long
- Plant the rooted cutting in soil
Propagation can be slow, so be patient. The new plant may not have the same variegation as the parent. This is normal and part of the fun of growing variegated plants.
Common Pests And Diseases
Like all houseplants, the strawberry shake plant can attract pests. The most common pests are spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Check the leaves regularly, especially the undersides, for any signs of infestation.
Spider mites are tiny and create fine webbing. Mealybugs look like small white cotton balls. Scale appears as brown bumps on the stems and leaves. If you find pests, isolate the plant immediately to prevent them from spreading.
Treatment Options
- Wipe leaves with a cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol
- Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil
- Use a systemic insecticide for severe infestations
- Increase humidity to deter spider mites
Root rot is the most common disease. It is caused by overwatering. If the stems are mushy and the leaves are yellow, the roots may be rotting. You will need to remove the plant from the pot, cut away the rotten roots, and repot in fresh soil.
Strawberry Shake Plant Vs Pink Princess
Many people confuse these two plants. The strawberry shake plant has a more marbled or speckled variegation. The Pink Princess has larger, more defined blocks of pink. The stems of the Strawberry Shake are also pinker and more colorful.
The care for both plants is very similar. However, the Strawberry Shake is often more sensitive to light changes. It may revert to green more easily if conditions are not perfect. This makes it a slightly more challenging plant for beginners.
If you want a plant with more stable variegation, the Pink Princess might be easier. If you love the unique, splashed look of the Strawberry Shake, it is worth the extra attention.
Where To Buy A Strawberry Shake Plant
This plant is not available at big box stores. You will need to look at specialty plant shops, online nurseries, or plant auctions. Because it is rare, be prepared to pay a premium price. Prices can range from $50 to over $200 depending on the size and variegation quality.
When buying online, check the seller’s reviews and photos. Look for a plant with good pink variegation and healthy green leaves. Avoid plants with yellowing leaves or signs of pests. Ask about the shipping method to ensure the plant arrives safely.
Local plant swaps and Facebook groups are also great places to find cuttings or plants at lower prices. You can sometimes trade with other collectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the strawberry shake plant rare?
Yes, it is considered a rare plant. It grows slowly and is harder to propagate, which keeps supply low and prices high.
Why is my strawberry shake plant turning green?
This is usually caused by insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location with indirect sunlight to encourage the pink variegation to return.
Can I grow a strawberry shake plant in water?
You can root cuttings in water, but the plant cannot live in water forever. It needs soil to get the nutrients required for long-term growth.
How fast does a strawberry shake plant grow?
It is a slow to moderate grower. With optimal conditions, you can expect a few new leaves per growing season. It is not a fast-spreading vine.
Is the strawberry shake plant toxic to pets?
Yes, like all Philodendrons, it contains calcium oxalate crystals. These are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep it out of reach of curious pets.
Final Care Checklist
Here is a quick summary to keep your strawberry shake plant healthy and happy. Follow these simple rules and you will have a thriving plant.
- Bright, indirect light for 10-12 hours a day
- Water when the top two inches of soil are dry
- Use a chunky, well-draining soil mix
- Keep temperatures between 65°F and 80°F
- Maintain humidity above 60%
- Fertilize monthly during spring and summer
- Check for pests every week
- Repot every 1-2 years in spring
The strawberry shake plant is a rewarding addition to any plant collection. Its unique beauty makes it a conversation starter. With the right care, it will reward you with stunning, colorful leaves that look like a work of art. Be patient with it, and you will be amazed at the results.
Remember that this plant is a living thing that needs consistency. Do not move it around too much. Find a good spot and let it settle in. Once it is happy, it will grow steadily and bring you joy for many years.
If you follow the advice in this guide, you will avoid the common mistakes that kill this plant. The main things to remember are light, water, and humidity. Get those three things right, and the rest is easy.
Now you have all the information you need to care for your strawberry shake plant. Go ahead and give it the attention it deserves. Your efforts will be rewarded with one of the most beautiful houseplants you can own.