Philodendron pink princess care: Growing a rare beauty

Tropical houseplants they are a gorgeous addition to any room inside! They have a stunning foliage appearance and are great for indoor planting. But many tropical plants that feature vivid colors and patterns can be hard to take care of because of their requirement for constant light and temperature changes. So, gardeners looking for a pretty houseplant that can grow well with minimal care can opt for the Philodendron Pink Princess plant.

This beautiful plant has dark green heart-shaped leaves with bright pink patches. Although the pink on the plant can range from bold streaks, small blotches, or even cover whole leaves, it definitely makes this a really special plant. It's pink and dark green coloring stirs up a combination that makes it a hot houseplant indeed, one beloved in the plant world.

It is a popular and easy-to-grow houseplant that provides yearly greenery. Growycles can be used to aid growers in deciding which techniques are best for plant health and development.

Botany of Philodendron Pink Princess

The Philodendron Pink Princess (Philodendron erubescens) is a beautiful, tropical plant known for its striking pink and dark green leaves. It’s a member of the Araceae family, making it a close cousin to houseplants such as the Monstera and Anthurium.

Basic Information

• Scientific Name: Philodendron erubescens
• Common Name: Philodendron Pink Princess
• Family: Araceae
• Genus: Philodendron
• Species: erubescens

Growth Habit: Philodendron Pink Princess is a climbing, evergreen tropical plant that is native to the rainforests of Central and South America. In its native habitat, it climbs a tree with its aerial roots, but it can also grow on the ground.

Leaves:

• Shape: The leaves are broad, long, and heart-shaped.
• Color: The leaves are a blend of dark green and pink. Pink results from a deficiency of chlorophyll, the pigment used by plants to convert sunlight into food.
• Texture: Leaves are smooth and glossy. Under the proper conditions, mature leaves can reach 8-10 inches long.

Stems: The stems are strong and have a reddish or burgundy color. Small nodes along the stems produce aerial roots that help the plant climb and absorb moisture.

Flowers: Like other Philodendrons, this plant produces flowers typical of the Araceae family. The flower includes a spathe (a modified leaf) that wraps around a spadix (a fleshy spike with tiny flowers). However, flowering rarely happens indoors because the conditions are not ideal.

Benefits of Growing Philodendron Pink Princess

A popular houseplant, it has a number of benefits and is adored by plant lovers. Read on for the key benefits of planting these beautiful flowers:

• Beautiful Appearance: This stunning light pink plant has bright pink and green leaves, which will brighten up any room in your house. Its shiny leaves make it look very modern and sophisticated in homes, offices, or indoor gardens. The plant’s climbing habit means users can creatively display it on trellises, poles, or hanging pots.
• Purifies the Air: Like other Philodendrons, this plant removes toxins in the air by absorbing airborne formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon dioxide. Cleaner air can promote a healthier indoor atmosphere and lower allergens.
• Easy to Care For: This Pink Princess is an easy-to-care plant; it’s perfect for the beginner. It does great with moderate light, basic watering and some humidity, and is generally low maintenance.
• Boosts Mental Well-Being: Taking care of houseplants such as this Philodendron Pink Princess can help in relieving stress and increase mental relaxation. But seeing it grow and thrive can make plant owners feel accomplished and happy.
• Versatile Growth Options: Growing as a climbing vine with support or a potted plant, it is ideal for any space. Once of age, it looks good on shelves or your desk and can be used as a display aging tool.
• Increases Humidity: The Philodendron Pink Princess naturally adds moisture to the air around it, which is helpful for respiratory health and skin hydration, especially in dry indoor environments.

Great Conversation Starter: It's not every day you come across a houseplant that is just as unique as you. Other plant enthusiasts or guests are drawn to admire its unusual beauty, which can lead to some fun, little chats.

Types of Pink Princess Philodendron

Here are some common variations or closely related plants often associated with the Pink Princess:

Philodendron Pink Princess Care Guide 

It is a beautiful and unique plant known for its pink and green variegated leaves. Here is a complete care guide of Philodendron Pink Princess to help it thrive:

1. Light Requirements

This plant loves to be in the sun, but in indirect sunlight only. Good light is also necessary to retain its pink variegation, an unusual and special thing.

• Ideal Spot: Put the plant in an east- or west-facing window where it can receive soft, filtered light.
• Avoid Direct Sunlight: The leaves are delicate and can burn in too much direct sunlight, leading to brown or scorched leaves.
• Too Little Light: If the plant does not receive enough light, its pink color may wash out, and its leaves could become solid green.
• Tip: If natural light is scarce, consider using grow lights to ensure the plant stays healthy and vibrant.

2. Watering

Watering the Pink Princess can be a bit tricky. Both overwatering and underwatering can become problems.

• When to Water: Feel the top 1 – 2 inches of the soil. When the soil is dry to the touch, it’s time to water.
• How to Water: Water uniformly over the soil, until water comes out at the bottom. Be sure to use a pot with drainage holes to keep water from collecting.
• Signs of Overwatering: Leaves are becoming yellow, and the soil remains too wet for too long. Root rot can also result from overwatering.
• Signs of Underwatering: Leaves could go limp, curl, or become dry to the touch. The soil will feel very dry, as well.
• Tip: Try and use room-temperature water so as not to shock the plant’s roots.

3. Humidity

The Plant likes a humid space, its natural habitat is the tropical forest. High humidity maintains its leaves healthy and glossy.

• Ideal Humidity: Try to keep humidity to 60% or more.
• Ways to Increase Humidity: Use a humidifier to create consistent moisture. Set the plant in a tray of water and pebbles (making sure the pot doesn’t sit in the water). To increase the humidity level, place plants in groups.
• Misting: A light mist on the leaves can be helpful for a couple of days, but it’s not a replacement for the high humidity.
• Tip: Bathrooms or kitchens have natural humidity, which the Pink Princess will also enjoy.

4. Soil 

The Pink Princess requires a fast-draining, highly nutritious soil mix. Overwatering issues such as root rot are prevented by the right soil.

• Best Soil Mix: Potting soil (to provide nutrients), Peat moss or coconut coir (to hold moisture), Perlite or orchid bark (for optimal drainage and aeration).

• pH Level: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0) is best.
• Tip: Do not plant in heavily compacted soil — the roots require airflow to remain healthy.

5. Temperature

The Pink Princess likes it warm, similar to a tropical location.

• Ideal Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C).
• Avoid Cold drafts from windows or air conditioners, sudden temperature changes and temperatures below 55°F (13°C) can stress your pothos, and temperatures below 55°F (13°C), as they can stress your pothos and damage the plant.
• Tip: Get the plant into a stable environment, out of range of heaters, radiators, and cold drafts.

6. Fertilizers

Healthy watering will ensure a healthy plant, and regular decapitation stimulates growth and variegation.

• When to Fertilize: Feed once a month in the spring through summer.
• Type of Fertilizer: A balanced liquid fertilizer (such as 20-20-20) diluted to half-strength can be used.
• Avoid Overfertilizing: Excess fertilizer can lead to root burn and harm your plant.
• Winter Care: Do not fertilize in the fall and winter when the plant’s growth has slowed down.
• Tip: Organic options, like worm castings or compost, can provide a gentler, slow-release option.

7. Pruning

Pruning keeps the Pink Princess tidy, encourages bushy growth, and evens out the variegation.

• When to Prune: The plant should be pruned in the spring or summer when in active growth.
• How to Prune: Use clean, sharp scissors or gardening shears. Cut just above a leaf node — the spot where a leaf grows out from the stem.
• Remove Unwanted Leaves: Trim off any damaged, yellow (or completely green) leaves. Trimming all-green leaves enables the plant to channel its energy into variegated growth.
• Tip: Frequent pruning also helps keep the plant from getting leggy.

8. Repotting

Repotting enables your plant to grow bigger and provides fresh soil.

• When to Repot: Every 1 to 2 years, or when roots start to appear through the pot’s drainage holes.
• Pot Selection: Use a pot that is 1–2 inches larger than the current pot, and has good drainage holes.
• Steps to Repot:
  • Carefully slip the plant out of its pot.
  • Shake old soil gently away and examine the roots for damage. Cut off any soft, rotted roots.
  • Drop the plant into a fresh pot filled with new soil.
  • Water lightly to settle the plant in.

Propagating Philodendron Pink Princess

The propagation of Philodendron Pink Princess can help maintain the balanced growth of plants. The propagation process is usually done by two different methods, such as 

1. Stem Cutting in Water 
2. Stem Cutting in Soil 

Propagation by Stem Cuttings in Water

• Select a vigorous stem 2-3 leaves and a couple of nodes.
• Cut the stem just below a node with a clean, sharp tool, at about 4-6 inches.
• And now it’s time to strip away any leaves that will be under the water and cause rot.
• Now, the Water tub should be used to put the cutting. Gardeners should make certain that the node is completely submerged with the leaves above.
• Keep the pot in a warm spot where it will receive indirect light.
• It’s a good idea, however, to change the water every few days to help keep the cutting fresh and clear.
• Water only until the roots have grown for 2-4 weeks.
• Plant the cutting once the roots are a few inches long. 

Propagation by Stem Cuttings in Soil

• Choose a healthy 2-3 leaf node stem to 4-6 inches long.
• Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to promote faster root growth. (Optional)
• Now, prepare a pot with soil that drains well, then make a hole in the middle.
• Then, insert the cutting into the hole so that at least one node is covered by the soil.
• Give the cutting a light water to help the mixture settle together in the pot.
• If there is extra moisture, cover the pot with a plastic bag, ensuring that the leaves are not in direct contact with the plastic.
• Now, set the pot in a warm location where indirect light fills the room and water it weekly to keep your plant’s soil moist.
• Wait a few weeks, then test for roots by gently pulling the cutting.
• If the roots are difficult to pull up, that indicates they’ve begun to grow.

Common Problems and Solutions of Philodendron Pink Princess

There are a few issues that you might run into with your Philodendron princess, which may be harming your plant. Here are a few of them.

• No Pink Leaves

It typically occurs when the plant has not been receiving enough sun, causing it to lose variegation. It's necessary to verify this soil ASAP, because if it gets too dry, it can strip the plant of variegation forever. To do this, gardeners must set a plant in bright, indirect sunlight for correct exposure.

• Leaves Turning Yellow 

The plant generally gets root rot, which makes the leaves turn yellow, when you overwater the plant. But to correct this, gardeners must test the soil for moisture, and if it is too wet, then wait until it dries. In addition, if you have to repot, then do so as they might not have the right drainage system in an old pot.

• Leaves Turning Brown 

If your plant isn’t receiving sufficient humidity, it could be the cause of your leaves turning brown. But this is not a solution, as it is not reversible. Thus, in the future, gardeners should mist their leaves periodically or use a humidifier to keep them from browning.

• Leaf Dropping 

This shedding of leaves generally occurs for various reasons, including improper watering, temperature changes (sudden, enormous heat), or poor light. Therefore, gardeners should rapidly shift the spot to bright, indirect light and keep it at a steady temperature. You would also want to make sure you’re watering enough, not too much, or not too little.

The Bottom Line 

The Philodendron Pink Princess is a lovely houseplant with dark green and pink leaves and is extra special. This is great for indoors to add a little charm. Its colorful mix of blooms and low-water requirements make it attractive to gardeners. With proper care, it can produce healthier and fuller leaves. Growcycle is giving gardeners everything they need to care for tropical houseplants.

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.

About the Author

Victor Miller

Environmental Journalist Focused on Sustainable Agriculture

Victor Miller is an environmental journalist at Growcycle, where he covers the latest news, trends, and innovations in sustainable agriculture. He has a deep passion for storytelling that emphasizes ecological balance and responsible farming practices.