How to Care for Philodendron Plants
Philodendrons are popular indoor plants for a very good reason. They are lush, forgiving and available in loads of varieties, from trailing vines to big climbing statement plants. Whether you have a heartleaf philodendron, a climbing variety or a chunky leafy show-off, the basics are simple: give it bright filtered light, let the soil partly dry between waterings and give climbing types something to grab onto. If you are growing your indoor jungle, browse our indoor plants for more leafy houseplants that suit Australian homes.
The first thing to know is whether your philodendron is trailing or climbing. Trailing varieties look great on shelves, bookcases and hanging baskets because the stems naturally spill over the edge. Climbing philodendrons prefer support, such as a moss pole or trellis, so their aerial roots can attach and the leaves can mature. If this is the type of plant you love, browse our hanging and climbing plants for more trailing and upright houseplant options. For climbing plants, a support like our Moss Pole can help encourage stronger, more upright growth.
Philodendrons like bright, indirect light. They can usually tolerate lower light better than many fussy indoor plants, but growth may slow and leaves may become smaller. Direct afternoon sun can scorch the leaves, so avoid placing them hard up against a hot window. A bright living room, office or bedroom is usually a great spot. If your home has trickier darker corners, our low light plants collection is useful for comparing other indoor plants that can handle less brightness.
Water when the top few centimetres of soil feel dry. Philodendrons do not want to sit in wet soil for days, so drainage is important. If you struggle to tell whether your plant is thirsty or still damp, browse our plant care tools for handy indoor plant accessories that can make watering less of a guessing game. Yellow leaves can be a sign of overwatering, especially if the soil feels soggy. If you are seeing yellowing, read our guide on why plant leaves turn yellow to narrow down the cause.
Philodendrons also appreciate a chunky, airy potting mix. A mix that holds some moisture but still drains well is ideal. If the soil becomes compacted, water may sit around the roots and cause problems. When repotting, choose a pot only slightly bigger than the current one so the plant is not swimming in excess soil.
Pruning helps keep philodendrons looking full and healthy. For trailing plants, trim long, sparse vines just above a node. This encourages bushier growth and gives you cuttings to propagate. Pop healthy cuttings in water or a suitable propagation medium and wait for roots to grow. For climbing philodendrons, prune damaged leaves and tie stems gently to their support as they grow. Our Velcro Plant Ties are handy for securing stems without cutting into them.
Humidity is helpful but not usually as critical as it is for Calatheas. Most philodendrons are happy in normal home conditions, although they will often grow bigger, glossier leaves with more humidity. Keep them away from cold draughts, heaters and air conditioners where possible. If you want to compare them with fussier tropical houseplants, read our guide on how to care for Calathea plants.
Feed lightly during spring and summer with a balanced indoor plant fertiliser. If the plant is growing strongly, regular light feeding can support bigger leaves and healthier stems. Avoid overdoing it, as too much fertiliser can burn roots or cause weak growth.
Philodendrons are ideal for plant lovers who want something lush without constant fuss. Start with good light, sensible watering and the right growth habit, then let the plant do its thing. They can also make great houseplant gifts because they feel lush and thoughtful without being overly high-maintenance. For leafy gift ideas, browse our plant gifts, or explore our beginner plants if you want something easygoing for a newer plant parent.