How to Care for Philodendron Prince of Orange: 9 Care Pointers

This perky prince is here to prove that caring for a houseplant can be as easy as pie; even your forgetful nature won’t be able to wither its spirit!

If I were to describe the orange appearance of the Philodendron Prince of Orange, it looks like a burst of citrusy joy. A Tutti Frutti masterpiece that Mother Nature herself whipped up.

Imagine stumbling upon this magnificent plant—its leaves radiating a shade of orange and starburst yellow. So tantalizing it could rival a perfectly ripened peach!

The Philodendron Prince of Orange has a captivating color and a mouthwatering aura that drew me in like a bee to nectar. Like a refreshing fruit salad on a scorching summer day, the Philodendron Prince of Orange breathes life into any space it graces.

Disclaimer: We take no responsibility for sudden urges to munch on your plants!

As a dedicated horticulturist, I eagerly brought the Philodendron Prince of Orange into my home. Excited to witness its vibrant beauty firsthand. However, I noticed the orange plants leaves were fading due to too much direct sunlight. After relocating the orange plant to a spot with indirect light, its bright orange hue returned. The Orange Philodendron Prince is a centerpiece in my home, showcasing its bright foliage.

I’m excited to share what I have learned about caring for this zesty-looking plant!

Philodendron Prince of Orange

Table of Contents

What Is the Philodendron Prince of Orange Light Requirements?

The Philodendron Prince of Orange thrives in bright indirect sunlight for 6-8 hours daily. It doesn’t appreciate direct sunlight, so find a spot near a window where the bright light is filtered.

You can use a drape or a sheer curtain to filter the light if necessary. By placing it in a location with bright, indirect sunlight, you’ll be able to showcase its yellow and bright orange leaves without risking any sun damage.

philodendron orange on a wooden tablecloth

If you notice the Prince of Orange’s leaves reaching out toward the sunlight or its leaves becoming pale, it’s a sign that it needs more brightness. Simply rotate the Orange Philodendron Prince periodically to ensure all sides receive equal light, and you’ll maintain a balanced growth.

I had a Philodendron Prince of Orange positioned near a north-facing window. The indirect sunlight created a pleasant atmosphere, casting beautiful shadows and creating warm hues that transformed the room into a delightful space.

If its growth becomes leggy or its leaves appear pale green, it’s a sign that the Philodendron Prince of Orange requires more light. Adjust its location accordingly. However be careful not to expose the Philodendron Prince of Orange to too much light, resulting in leaf burn.

How Often Should I Water?

When it comes to watering this orange plant, it’s all about balance. You want to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Like a wrung-out sponge if you will.

Water it thoroughly, allowing it to soak the entire root ball. Let the excess water escape the pot’s drainage holes. Allow the top inch or so of the soil to dry out before watering again. Think of it as a little cycle of hydration and drying that keeps the Philodendron Prince of Orange happy and healthy.

hand holding philodendron prince of orange

As a rule of thumb, you’ll need to water your Philodendron Prince of Orange every 7 to 10 days. However, remember that it depends on factors such as temperature, humidity, and the specific conditions of your orange Philodendron Prince plant’s environment.

Keep an eye on the soil moisture and adjust accordingly. Stick your finger into the soil to your knuckle—yes, get your hands dirty! If it feels dry at that depth, it’s time to hydrate. If it’s still slightly moist, hold off for a bit.

Here’s a pro tip: Pay attention to your pot’s drainage. Ensure it has proper drainage holes (so many pots come without the holes thoroughly drilled, so check them before you fill it) so excess water can escape and prevent waterlogging.

No one wants their Philodendron Prince of Orange to turn into a swampy mess, right?

Our Philodendron Prince prefers a drink without chlorine or fluoride, just like you would enjoy a glass of pure, filtered water. You can use filtered bottled water or leave tap water out overnight to let the chlorine evaporate.

It’s always better to underwater slightly than to overwater. The Philodendron Prince of Orange can tolerate a little drought better than waterlogging.

What Soil Is Required?

Regarding soil, the Prince of Orange prefers a well-draining, loose, and nutrient-rich mix. Think of it as a balance between stability and aeration.

philodendron orange in wicker basket

To create this ideal soil blend, you can start with a pot filled with high-quality potting soil. Look for fresh soil specifically formulated for tropical plants or one that provides good drainage. Avoid heavy, compacted soils that suffocate your Philodendron Prince of Oranges’ roots like a tight pair of shoes.

Now, let’s give that soil some breathing room! Add some perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage and prevent water from pooling around the roots. This will ensure your Philodendron Prince of Orange doesn’t get its feet too wet and avoids soggy soil situations.

You can enrich your Philodendron Prince of Orange soil by adding organic matter such as well-rotted compost, peat moss, or aged manure. This will provide essential nutrients and promote new growth. In turn making your Philodendron Prince of Orange the envy of all other Philodendron plants.

When it comes to potting, choose a container with drainage holes to prevent water from becoming stagnant. The right pot size allows the roots to spread comfortably without being cramped, like a roomy suite in a botanical paradise.

Now, let’s talk about pH. The Orange Philodendron Prince prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil, with a pH range of 6 to 7. You can use a pH testing kit from your local garden center to check the acidity level and make necessary adjustments.

What Temperature Does It Prefer?

Our Prince of Orange is a tropical plant, hailing from lush forests where the temperature is as comfortable as a beach vacation. Ideally, it thrives in average to warm temperatures ranging between 65°F (18°C) and 85°F (29°C).

If you keep your thermostat around 70°F (21°C), your Orange Philodendron will feel like it’s lounging in a tropical paradise. However, it can tolerate slightly cold temperatures if they don’t dip below 60°F (15°C).

person holding large prince of orange philodendron

Avoid subjecting it to direct exposure to scorching sunlight. Or on the other hand placing it near heaters that might turn it into a wilted mess.

Keep in mind that temperature fluctuations can stress our Prince of Orange. So, provide a stable environment without sudden temperature swings.

In colder climates, during winter, ensure that your Orange Philodendron is shielded from cold drafts and frosty windows. If you need a heater to combat the winter chill, ensure the Prince is placed away from direct heat sources.

Can It Survive With Average Household Humidity?

Humidity can either make or break the happiness of the Philodendron Prince of Orange!

In its ideal environment, the Prince enjoys a humidity level of around 60% to 70%. To keep its lush leaves happy and prevent them from turning crispy like autumn leaves.

different colors of philodendron orange leaves

Here are a few tried-and-true methods to keep the air around your Prince comfortably humid:

  • Misting: Grab a spray bottle filled with lukewarm water and gently mist your Prince’s leaves. Aim for a light misting session a few times a week. Remember, moderation is key.
  • Pebble Tray: Place a tray or saucer filled with water and pebbles beneath your Prince’s pot. As the water evaporates, it adds moisture to the air around the plant.
  • Grouping Plants: Create a green gang by grouping your tropical plants. As they transpire and release moisture, they’ll create a more humid microclimate.
  • Humidifier: Bring in a humidifier for those who want to take the humidity game to the next level. Set it near your Prince and adjust the humidity level to keep it within the desired range.

Keep an eye on your Prince’s leaves for any signs of dryness or brown, crispy edges. If you notice these symptoms, it’s a cry for more moisture in the air. Adjust your humidity-boosting methods accordingly and watch your Prince’s foliage glow with gratitude.

On the flip side, be cautious of excessive humidity, as it can create a breeding ground for pests and diseases. Find the right balance between being too dry and too damp.

Does It Need Fertilizer?

First and foremost, choose a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer specifically formulated for houseplants. Look for a fertilizer with an NPK ratio (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) of around 20-20-20 or similar. This ensures a well-rounded blend of nutrients to keep your Philodendron Prince of Orange thriving.

If your Philodendron Prince of Orange looks a little lackluster, its leaves lose their vibrant charm. Give it a nutrient boost. Dilute a balanced fertilizer according to the package instructions and apply it every four to six weeks during the growing season, from spring to early fall.

green pot with philodendron orange

When applying fertilizer, ensure the soil is already moist but not soggy. Apply the solution evenly around the base of the plant, avoiding direct contact with the leaves.

During the dormant period in winter, reduce or even halt fertilization as the plant’s growth slows down. It’s like giving your Prince a well-deserved rest after all the festivities.

Keep an eye on your plant’s response to the fertilizer. If you notice signs of over-fertilization, such as burnt brown leaf tips or yellowing leaves, it’s time to cut back. Remember, a little goes a long way!

How Do I Propagate Prince of Orange?

Propagation, the art of creating new plant babies, is an exciting journey that allows us to expand our kingdom of Philodendron Prince of Orange.

There are a few popular methods for Prince of Orange propagation, and I’ll share them with you.

close up of philodendron orange

Stem Cuttings

This method involves cutting a stem from the parent plant and encouraging it to develop roots.

Selected a healthy stem with several nodes and used a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears to make a clean cut just below a node.

Remove any lower leaves, leaving a few at the top for photosynthesis. Then, dip the cut end in a rooting hormone (optional but can aid in root development) and plant the stem cuttings in a well-draining potting mix. Ensuring the nodes are buried in the soil.

Keep the soil consistently moist and provide indirect light. After a few weeks, roots form; the plant matures, and voila! A new Prince of Orange is born.

Air Layering

This method is like giving your Philodendron Prince of Orange a VIP treatment, allowing it to develop roots while still attached to the parent plant.

Select a healthy, mature stem and make a small incision or wound in the middle section. Then dust the wound with rooting hormone to stimulate root growth. Next, I wrap the wounded area with moist sphagnum moss, securing it with plastic wrap to create a humid environment.

After that, check the moss regularly, keeping it moist but not waterlogged. After a few weeks, roots emerge from the wound.

To finish, carefully cut below the rooted section and pot it as a new individual plant. Ready to rule its own pot!

Division

Firstly, gently remove the parent plant from its pot and examine the root system. Then, identify natural divisions where the orange philodendron prince has multiple stems growing from aerial roots.

Secondly, carefully separate these sections using a clean, sharp knife or shears, ensuring each division has healthy aerial roots and foliage.

Finally, pot each division into separate containers, ensuring they have well-draining soil and are watered appropriately.

What Are the Prince of Orange Pests and Common Problems?

Here are a few common pests and problems you may encounter, along with strategies to defeat them:

Spider Mites

These tiny arachnids can weave a web of trouble for our Philodendron Prince of Orange. Look for fine webbing on the leaves and tiny specks moving around.

To combat spider mites, you can wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove them physically. Regularly misting the plant and maintaining humidity can deter pesky invaders.

If the infestation persists, consider using an organic insecticidal soap or neem oil spray, following the instructions carefully.

Mealybugs

These cottony, sap-sucking insects love to cozy up in the leaf axils and joints of our Philodendron Prince of Orange. Keep an eye out for clusters of white, fuzzy pests.

To deal with mealybugs, you can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them manually.

Alternatively, you can use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray, ensuring thorough coverage of the affected areas.

Fungal Leaf Spot

If you notice small, dark spots with yellow halos on your Prince of Orange leaves, it might be a case of a fungal leaf spot. This common problem is caused by moisture on the foliage and poor air circulation.

To prevent fungal leaf spots, avoid overhead watering and ensure the Philodendron Prince of Orange has good airflow.

If the issue persists, remove and discard affected leaves and consider using a fungicide as a last resort, following the product instructions diligently.

Root Rot

Excessive moisture and poor drainage can lead to the dreaded root rot. Signs include wilting, yellowing leaves, and a foul odor from the soil.

To combat root rot, ensure your Philodendron Prince of Orange is potted in a well-draining soil mix and allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.

If the root rot has progressed significantly, it may be necessary to trim away affected roots. Then repot the Philodendron Prince of Orange in fresh, dry soil.

Nutrient Deficiencies:

A lack of essential nutrients can manifest as pale or discolored leaves and stunted growth. Regularly fertilize your Prince of Orange with a balanced houseplant fertilizer, following the package instructions.

Additionally, provide the plant with proper lighting, watering, and soil conditions to support healthy nutrient uptake.

ariel view of philodendron orange on gravel

Is the Philodendron Prince of Orange Toxic?

Like many plants in the genus Philodendron, Philodendron Prince of Orange contains calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals are tiny, needle-shaped structures in various parts of the orange plant, including the leaves, stems, and roots. When the plant is disturbed or ingested, these crystals can cause irritation and discomfort.

If a person or pet ingests any part of the Philodendron Prince of Orange plant, it can result in various symptoms. Mild symptoms include irritation and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat. This can lead to difficulty swallowing, excessive drooling, and a burning sensation.

In some cases, the toxicity can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Skin contact with the orange plant’s sap or juices can cause irritation, redness, and itching. It’s worth noting that the severity of the symptoms can vary depending on the individual’s sensitivity and the amount of plant material ingested.

Keeping Philodendron Prince of Orange out of reach of children and pets is recommended to prevent accidental ingestion or contact. Educate yourself and others about the potential toxicity of the Philodendron Prince of Orange, and exercise caution when handling or working around it.

About Philodendron Prince of Orange 

Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ is the houseplant causing a stir among indoor gardeners. With its flashy foliage in a dazzling shade of orange, this compact plant knows how to make a grand entrance.

Hailing from the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, it’s got the looks and the lineage. The oval-shaped leaves, complete with prominent veining, give the orange plant its unmistakable identity.

Remember its manageable size, perfect for squeezing into any nook or cranny. The Philodendron Prince of Orange transitions from fiery orange to deep green as it matures. Making it the ultimate style chameleon.

It’s the houseplant equivalent of a mood booster. Bringing warmth and cheer to any space. Additionally, the Philodendron Prince of Orange is as low-maintenance as it gets, forgiving even to the most forgetful indoor plant parents.

FAQ

Is Philodendron Prince of Orange rare?

The Prince of Orange is hard to find compared to other philodendron varieties. You can find them at houseplant nurseries or online.

Why is my Prince of Orange all green?

If your Philodendron Prince of Orange is all green without any orange foliage, it could be due to insufficient light. The vibrant orange coloration is best developed in bright, indirect light.

If the Philodendron Prince of Orange is not receiving enough light, it may produce predominantly light green leaves. Adjusting the lighting conditions can help restore the desired orange coloration.

Does Philodendron Prince of Orange like humidity?

Philodendron Prince of Orange can tolerate various humidity levels but prefers moderate to high humidity.

Providing some humidity, such as misting the leaves or placing the orange plant near a humidifier, can be beneficial, especially in drier indoor environments. However, the Philodendron Prince of Orange is adaptable and can still thrive in average household humidity.

Is Philodendron Prince of Orange a climbing plant?

Philodendron Prince of Orange is not a natural climber like some other Philodendron species. It typically has a bushy and compact growth habit, with the foliage clustered together. To encourage a bushier appearance, regular pruning or pinching back of the stems can be done.

Sprinkle Some Green and Orange Magic Into Your Home’s Serene Haven!

The Philodendron Prince of Orange is the houseplant superstar you’ve been waiting for! Its jaw-dropping orange foliage and oval-shaped leaves are like a tropical sunset packaged in a potted plant. Its compact size means it’s the perfect sidekick for your shelves or tabletops, ready to bring a burst of color and cheer to any room.

This tropical plant is low-maintenance and forgiving in light conditions. So even if you accidentally give it a bit of shade, it won’t hold it against you. The Philodendron Prince of Orange can handle the average humidity levels of your cozy home without breaking a sweat.

Embrace the allure of the Philodendron Prince of Orange in your indoor jungle. Surround yourself with its captivating beauty. Let its easy going nature remind you to take life with a dash of zest!

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Photo of author
Alex Tinsman
An avid plant and flower lover! Ever since he was little, plants, flowers, and shrubbery of all kinds filled his life. Alex credits this fascination with nature's beauty to his mother and grandmother who were - and still are - dedicated gardeners. It's now Alex's mission to pass that same love for plants onto others and show them it's as easy as pie to bring nature inside.

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