The Philodendron is a hardy indoor plant loved by collectors and enthusiasts because they produce stunning displays for minimum effort. It’s a species known for light green, heart-shaped leaves and their air purifying qualities.

There are hundreds of varieties available, and they come in different shapes, sizes, colours and growth habits. This guide to philodendron types will help you find the perfect plant for you.

What is a Philodendron?

A philodendron is a group of plants native to the rainforests of South America that are also known as Archaea. With over 480 species recognised, it is one of the most varied houseplant varieties. However, they share some standard features, namely heart-shaped, lobed leaves with a velvety texture. They also commonly have serial roots.

There are many varieties of philodendron, and it can be challenging to know which one is right for you. This guide will help you sort through the different types of philodendron and make the best choice for you.

Philodendron Care

One of the main reasons that Philodendrons are so popular is their easy-care nature. They’re a brilliant introduction to house plant ownership and, whilst some species will have slightly different requirements, you can’t go wrong if you keep these simple tips in mind.

These tropical houseplants like warm temperatures and humidity, so place them in a well-lit room with no cold draughts. Mist weekly with a fine spray bottle or put on a peddle tray to keep the leaves vibrant.

Try to keep your philodendron out of direct light. As a rule of thumb, plants with darker leaves can tolerate lower light, but variegated varieties thrive in brighter conditions.

For full details on caring for your Philodendron, please read our full guide.

Hanging (vining) Philodendrons

Hanging Philodendrons provide an ideal way to create a display from a shelf or windowsill that can add height and texture to a room.

Like many other hanging house plants, these vining plants work effectively in hanging baskets, ceiling-mounted pots, or high shelves. Popular hanging philodendrons include:

Philodendron Micans

This rare and unusual Philodendron has trailing, heart-shaped leaves with a fine point and velvet look and feel hanging elegantly from blush red or green stems. The trailing display of this plant will create a waterfall of different colours, which will lighten up and add interest to your space.

Philodendron Lemon Micans

An ultra-modern, stylish houseplant, the Philodendron Lemon Micans is a trailing plant whose striking yellow-green leaves create beautiful, bright cascades of colour that would accent most design schemes.

Climbing Philodendrons

Climbing Philodendrons have small stems and delicate leaves similar to hanging Philodendrons. However, if given a moss pole or other support, they will climb, giving you more control over the final display. These varieties are typically faster growing than others and make the perfect statement pieces for an entrance hall, dining room or home office.

Popular climbing philodendrons include:

Philodendron Hastatum

Also known as the silver sword, the broad silvery-green heart-shaped leaves of this Philodendron bring the feel of rainforest into your home. Pair with a moss pole and watch as the variety grows to add height to the display and get a tropical feel to a room.

Upright Philodendrons

Upright Philodendrons are characterised by a central stem that grows upright from its pot to create a fountain of dark green leaves. These make ideal office plants because their green colours create a formal feel whilst also purifying the air. They are typically slower-growing than hanging or climbing varieties. Some of these species will require support from a stake or moss pole.

Popular upright Philodendrons include:

Philodendron Xanadu

These large, compact philodendrons are characterised by their large, split leaves, which create a comb-like look. You can also find these plants called ‘winterbourne’. This cultivar produces dense clumps that can grow up to 3ft tall and spread to around 6ft, creating a fantastic fanned out display that is wider than it is tall. These tropical, evergreen houseplants are an excellent choice for the home.

Philodendron Tortum

This tall Philodendron produces sword-like leaves on long, slender stems. It gives off a more formal and minimalist feel than other plants and is perfect for an office environment. The statement made by this plant is enhanced by its scarcity. This rare houseplant is a sight that many would not have seen before.

Warscewiczii Aurea

If you are looking for the height and broad leaves of the Philodendron, but want a colour that is not just green, then the Warscewiczii Aurea is the choice for you. The stems and leaves are both a bright lemon-yellow brushed with faint pieces of green - a real showstopper.

Some of our favourite Philodendrons

We sell a large selection of philodendron plants, and even though we love all of these easy to grow plants, there are some that really stand out for us and are extremely popular with our customers.

Philodendron Moonlight

This ultra-modern, stylish and rare Philodendron has large angular leaves that droop gracefully from a central stem. The foliage is a beautiful light green to yellow colour that becomes more vivid in the right light conditions. This is the perfect plant to fill some space.

Philodendron Gloriosum

The broad green leaves with stark white veins of this Philodendron bring the feel of a rainforest canopy into your home. Easy to look after and with a stunning, elegant silhouette, this indoor plant likes medium light and humidity.

Take a look at our full range of Philodendron plants.