Pink Princess Philodendron Care

The Pink Princess Philodendron is one of the most eye-catching houseplants you can have. Its unique variegation features splashes of pink on deep green leaves, which is what gives this plant its royal name. Unlike some other variegated plants that are rare in the wild (like the Philodendron Tortum), the Pink Princess is a hybrid cultivar that was developed specifically for its striking appearance.

It’s perfect for plant lovers who are looking to add a bit of color to their indoor jungle. But what makes the Pink Princess stand out the most is the way its colors can change over time. As the plant matures, the balance between green and pink shifts, giving each leaf its own unique pattern.

Pink Princess Philodendron Overview

Plant Overview	Details
Scientific Name	Philodendron erubescens ‘Pink Princess’
Common Name	Pink Princess Philodendron
Light Requirements	Bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight
Watering	Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry
Soil Type	Well-draining mix (peat, perlite, orchid bark, potting soil)
Humidity	60-70% humidity; mist or use a humidity tray
Temperature	65-80°F (18-27°C); avoid cold drafts
Fertilizer	Balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half-strength every 4-6 weeks
Growth Rate	Moderate; can grow 1-2 feet in height indoors with proper care
Mature Size	2-4 feet tall indoors (can grow larger in ideal conditions)
Toxicity	Toxic to pets (cats and dogs) if ingested
Propagation	Stem cuttings in water or soil
Repotting	Every 1-2 years or when root-bound
Common Problems	Loss of variegation, root rot, pests (spider mites, aphids), fungal infections
Special Features	Unique pink and green variegation; rare and sought-after houseplant

Care Tips for Pink Princess Philodendron

1. Humidity Boosting for Optimal Growth

Why It Matters: Pink Princess Philodendron loves humidity, thriving in environments with 60-70% humidity. In dry indoor conditions, your plant may suffer from browning leaf edges or slower growth. But don’t worry—you don’t need a tropical greenhouse to make it happy!

Practical Tips:

• Humidity Tray Hack: You can create an easy humidity tray by placing a shallow dish of water with pebbles underneath your plant. The water will evaporate, creating a humid microclimate around the plant without waterlogging the soil. It’s an inexpensive solution that works wonders!
• Grouping Plants Together: If you have a few humidity-loving plants, placing them near each other can naturally boost the humidity. Plants release moisture through transpiration, and when grouped, this moisture helps to maintain a more humid environment.
• Use a Humidifier: If you’re serious about keeping your Pink Princess thriving, a small indoor humidifier can keep the humidity consistent. I recommend setting it on a timer to run a few hours a day, especially in winter when indoor air can get quite dry.

2. DIY Soil Mix for Pink Princess Philodendron

Why It Matters: Like many Philodendrons, the Pink Princess prefers well-draining soil that doesn’t hold onto too much moisture. A poor soil mix can lead to root rot or compacted soil, both of which harm the plant. Creating your own soil mix is easy and ensures your plant gets exactly what it needs.

Homemade Soil Mix Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 part orchid bark (for aeration)
  • 1 part perlite (for drainage)
  • 1 part peat moss or coco coir (for moisture retention)
  • 1 part potting soil (as a base)
• Why This Works: Orchid bark and perlite allow the roots to breathe while preventing water from accumulating. Peat moss retains enough moisture for the roots to absorb without becoming waterlogged. This mix will keep your Pink Princess’s roots healthy and happy. For a similar recommendation, check out the best soil mix for thriving Philodendron Verrucosum, which follows a similar approach.

3. Watering Tips: Keeping Root Rot at Bay

Why It Matters: Root rot is one of the biggest threats to your Pink Princess. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to a soggy, unhealthy root system. But getting the watering routine just right can be tricky, especially when seasons change.

Practical Tips:

• The Soak and Dry Method: Water thoroughly, allowing the water to drain completely from the pot. Then, wait for the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out before watering again. This ensures that the plant gets enough hydration without sitting in water for too long.
• Use a Moisture Meter: If you’re unsure whether your plant needs water, a moisture meter is an inexpensive tool that can help. It takes the guesswork out of watering by showing you how dry the soil is at the root level.
• Adjust for Seasons: In the colder months, your Pink Princess will need less water due to slower growth. Be careful not to stick to a rigid watering schedule year-round. Instead, check the soil moisture regularly and adjust accordingly.

4. Lighting Tips: Maximizing Variegation

Why It Matters: Proper lighting is key to maintaining the vibrant pink variegation that makes your Pink Princess stand out. Too little light, and your plant will produce more green leaves to photosynthesize, losing its pink coloration.

Practical Tips:

• Bright, Indirect Light is King: Place your Pink Princess near an east or north-facing window where it gets plenty of bright, indirect light without being exposed to direct sunlight. This will prevent the delicate pink parts from scorching.
• Rotate the Plant Regularly: To ensure even growth and variegation, rotate your plant every few weeks so all sides get equal exposure to light. This can help prevent uneven growth and encourage more balanced variegation.
• Supplement with Grow Lights: If you don’t have enough natural light in your space, a grow light can be a great alternative. Look for full-spectrum LED lights that mimic natural sunlight and set them on a timer for 12-14 hours of light daily.

5. Fertilizing for Healthier Leaves

Why It Matters: Pink Princess Philodendron is a moderate feeder and needs nutrients to grow those lush, colorful leaves. However, over-fertilizing can lead to issues like fertilizer burn or excessive green growth at the expense of pink variegation.

Practical Tips:

• Balanced Fertilizer During Growing Season: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer (such as 20-20-20) diluted to half-strength every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer. This will provide the essential nutrients without overwhelming the plant.
• Reduce in Winter: During the colder months when growth slows, reduce feeding to once every two months or stop altogether. The plant doesn’t need as much during its dormant period.
• Watch for Signs: If you notice yellowing or browning leaf tips, you may be over-fertilizing. Cut back and flush the soil with water to wash out any excess salts. If you’re curious about specific care tips for other Philodendrons, the Philodendron McDowell care guide offers some great insights on fertilization techniques as well.

6. Pruning for Bushier Growth

Why It Matters: Regular pruning helps keep your Pink Princess in check and encourages fuller, bushier growth. It also helps remove any green leaves that are overtaking the variegated pink ones.

Practical Tips:

• Prune During the Growing Season: Spring and summer are the best times to prune, as your plant is actively growing. Use clean, sharp scissors to cut just above a node to encourage new growth.
• Remove Green Leaves: If you see predominantly green leaves, prune them away to give the plant a better chance to produce pink leaves. This helps maintain the plant’s stunning variegation.
• Trim Leggy Growth: If your Pink Princess is getting leggy, cutting back the longer stems will promote new growth from the base, making the plant appear fuller.

How to Propagate Pink Princess Philodendron

One of the most exciting things about the Pink Princess is how easy it is to propagate! Here’s how you can do it:

1. Method: The most common way to propagate Pink Princess is through stem cuttings. Cut a piece of the stem just below a node, ensuring that it has at least one or two healthy leaves.
2. Propagating in Water: Place the cutting in water, making sure the node is submerged. After a few weeks, you’ll start to see roots developing.
3. Propagating in Soil: Alternatively, you can plant the cutting directly into a well-draining potting mix, similar to the one used for Philodendron Melanochrysum care. Keep the soil moist, and in no time, you’ll see new growth!

How and When to Water Pink Princess Philodendron

Knowing when and how to water your Pink Princess is crucial to its health:

• When to Water: Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
• How to Water: Make sure to water thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain from the pot. You don’t want your Pink Princess sitting in water, as this can encourage root problems.
• Seasonal Watering: In the winter, you can reduce watering frequency since the plant’s growth slows down.

Just like with Philodendron McDowell, ensuring proper watering techniques will keep your Pink Princess in great shape all year round.

How and When to Repot Pink Princess Philodendron

As your Pink Princess grows, it will eventually outgrow its pot. Here’s how to know when it’s time to repot:

• When to Repot: Repot your Pink Princess when it becomes root-bound, which usually happens every 1-2 years. You’ll notice roots growing out of the drainage holes or the plant’s growth slowing down.
• How to Repot: Choose a pot that’s one size larger than the current one. Carefully remove the plant from its old pot, shake off excess soil, and transfer it to fresh potting mix. For a detailed step-by-step guide, check out how we recommend repotting for Philodendron McDowell.

How to Prune Pink Princess Philodendron

Pruning helps your Pink Princess stay healthy and encourages bushier growth. Here’s how to do it:

• When to Prune: Prune your plant during the growing season (spring and summer) to shape it or remove any yellowing leaves.
• How to Prune: Use sharp, sterilized scissors to cut just above a node. This will encourage new growth and prevent disease from spreading.

Regular pruning is essential for any Philodendron, whether it’s the Pink Princess or other varieties like Philodendron Ruizii.

Common Issues and How to Solve Them

1. Loss of Pink Variegation

Issue: One of the biggest disappointments for plant owners is when the stunning pink variegation starts to fade or doesn’t show up at all.

Why It Happens:

• Insufficient Light: Pink Princess thrives in bright, indirect light. If it’s not getting enough light, the plant may produce more green leaves to photosynthesize more efficiently, leading to a loss of pink variegation.
• Over-Fertilizing: Too much fertilizer, especially nitrogen, can encourage green growth at the expense of pink variegation.

Solution:

• Increase Bright, Indirect Light: Move your plant to a brighter location but avoid direct sunlight that can scorch the leaves. Consider using a grow light if natural light is insufficient.
• Prune Green Leaves: If you notice new growth is predominantly green, pruning those leaves can encourage more variegated leaves in the future. Be patient—variegation may take time to return.
• Adjust Fertilizer: Switch to a balanced fertilizer with lower nitrogen levels or cut back on the frequency of feeding. This will help the plant focus on producing pink foliage rather than rapid green growth.

2. Root Rot

Issue: Root rot is a common issue for Pink Princess Philodendron, especially if the plant is overwatered or the soil doesn’t drain well.

Why It Happens:

• Overwatering: This is the most common cause of root rot. The plant’s roots are left sitting in water, which deprives them of oxygen and causes them to decay.
• Poor Drainage: If the potting mix retains too much moisture or the pot doesn’t have proper drainage holes, it can lead to soggy conditions and root rot.

Solution:

• Use Well-Draining Soil: Make sure to use a potting mix with excellent drainage, like the one recommended for Philodendron Verrucosum. Add ingredients like perlite or orchid bark to improve aeration.
• Water Less Frequently: Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out before watering again. If you’re unsure, it’s better to underwater than overwater.
• Check for Signs Early: If you see yellowing leaves or mushy stems, unpot the plant and check the roots. Trim away any black or mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.

3. Pests (Spider Mites, Aphids, and Mealybugs)

Issue: Pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs can cause significant damage to your Pink Princess Philodendron by sucking the sap from its leaves and stems.

Why It Happens:

• Dry Air: Spider mites, in particular, thrive in dry environments. If humidity levels are too low, your plant becomes more susceptible to infestations.
• New Plants: Pests often hitch a ride on newly acquired plants, spreading to your Pink Princess if not quarantined.

Solution:

• Increase Humidity: Use a humidifier or place the plant near a humidity tray to deter pests. Keeping your Pink Princess in a room with 60-70% humidity will help prevent infestations.
• Regular Inspections: Check your plant regularly, especially under the leaves. If you spot pests, isolate the plant immediately to prevent spreading.
• Natural Insecticidal Soap: Treat affected areas with a homemade insecticidal soap or neem oil. Reapply every few days until the pests are gone.
• Shower Your Plant: Give your plant a gentle shower with lukewarm water to dislodge any pests. Be sure to focus on the undersides of the leaves, where pests love to hide.

4. Fungal Infections

Issue: Fungal infections can manifest as dark spots on the leaves or stem, often caused by overly humid conditions, lack of air circulation, or wet foliage.

Why It Happens:

• Excess Moisture: Keeping the leaves wet for too long, especially in low-light environments, creates the perfect breeding ground for fungi.
• Poor Air Circulation: When airflow is limited, moisture has a harder time evaporating, allowing fungal spores to thrive.

Solution:

• Water at the Base: Avoid getting water on the leaves, especially in the evening. Always water at the base of the plant to keep foliage dry.
• Improve Airflow: Ensure your plant has good airflow by spacing it out from other plants. You can even run a small fan to keep the air circulating in particularly humid rooms.
• Treat With Fungicide: If you notice fungal spots, remove affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide. For an organic solution, you can use a diluted baking soda spray or neem oil.

5. Yellowing Leaves

Issue: Yellowing leaves are often a sign of a problem, though not always. It’s important to understand the underlying cause to treat it effectively.

Why It Happens:

• Overwatering or Underwatering: Too much water can cause root issues, while too little water can stress the plant.
• Natural Aging: Some yellowing is natural as older leaves die off to make room for new growth.
• Nutrient Deficiency: A lack of nutrients, particularly nitrogen, can cause yellowing.

Solution:

• Adjust Watering Routine: Check the soil moisture before watering. If overwatering is the issue, let the soil dry out more between waterings. If the plant is underwatered, water more frequently.
• Prune Aging Leaves: If the yellowing leaves are older and located near the base of the plant, simply prune them away to encourage new growth.
• Fertilize Regularly: Use a balanced fertilizer every month during the growing season to ensure your plant is getting the nutrients it needs.

For even more in-depth care tips, you can also check out the Philodendron El Choco Red Care Guide—many of the care tips are similar and can be applied to your Pink Princess!

Common Issue	Cause	Solution
Loss of Pink Variegation	– Insufficient light – Over-fertilizing	– Increase bright, indirect light (use grow lights if necessary) – Prune green leaves to encourage more pink growth – Reduce nitrogen in fertilizer
Root Rot	– Overwatering – Poor drainage	– Use well-draining soil with perlite and orchid bark – Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry between waterings – Repot in fresh soil if necessary
Pests (Spider Mites, Aphids, etc.)	– Low humidity – Poor plant hygiene	– Increase humidity using a tray or humidifier – Inspect regularly and isolate affected plants – Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap
Fungal Infections	– Overly moist leaves – Lack of air circulation	– Water at the base to avoid wet leaves – Improve air circulation with a fan or spacing between plants – Remove affected leaves and treat with fungicide
Yellowing Leaves	– Overwatering or underwatering – Natural aging – Nutrient deficiency	– Adjust watering schedule based on soil dryness – Prune aging leaves to encourage new growth – Fertilize monthly during growing season

FAQs

Why is Philodendron Pink Princess so expensive?

The Pink Princess Philodendron is expensive primarily due to its stunning and rare pink variegation, which makes it highly sought after. The plant’s unique appearance, combined with the fact that it can take time and effort to propagate, means there’s often a limited supply compared to the high demand. Additionally, the pink variegation isn’t guaranteed with every new growth, making well-variegated plants even more valuable and costly.

Is Philodendron Pink Princess hard to care for?

Not really! While the Pink Princess Philodendron may look delicate, it’s fairly easy to care for, as long as you meet its basic needs. It thrives in bright, indirect light, prefers a well-draining soil mix (similar to the best soil mix for Philodendron Verrucosum), and likes consistent watering, although it’s important to avoid overwatering. With the right care, it can be a beautiful and relatively low-maintenance plant.

How do I make my Pink Princess Philodendron pink?

The amount of pink variegation on a Pink Princess is often influenced by the light it receives. To encourage more pink leaves, place your plant in a spot with bright, indirect light. However, too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, and too little light may cause the plant to lose its pink variegation. Pruning any entirely green leaves can also encourage more variegated growth. Patience is key, as variegation is somewhat unpredictable and may vary with each new leaf.

How much does a Pink Princess Philodendron cost?

The cost of a Pink Princess Philodendron can vary widely depending on the size, level of variegation, and seller. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 or more for a well-variegated plant. Larger, mature plants with a lot of pink can even reach prices of $500 or higher due to their rarity and beauty. Keep an eye on trusted plant retailers or marketplaces for fair prices.

Conclusion

Caring for a Pink Princess Philodendron can be incredibly rewarding. From learning how to propagate it to mastering the right watering schedule, these tips will help your plant thrive. Whether you’re a beginner or have an extensive plant collection, this guide is your go-to resource for ensuring your Pink Princess stays healthy and beautiful.

And if you’re looking for more care tips on rare Philodendron varieties, don’t forget to explore the best soil mix for Philodendron Verrucosum. Here’s to happy plant parenting! 🌱