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Philodendron, Genus, erubescens, Species, 'Pink Princess', Cultivar,
- Genus & species
- Cultivar
pink princess philodendron
Garden selection; species native to Colombia and Costa Rica
Overview
Philodendron erubescens 'Pink Princess' (PPP) is a sought-after collector's houseplant, growing 24-48 inches (60-120 cm) indoors on a moss pole. Dark green to near-black leaves with bubblegum pink variegated sectors give the cultivar its identifying pink-on-near-black contrast, a color combination uncommon in the plant world. The species name 'erubescens' means 'blushing red', referencing the red tones in the stems and new growth. The variegation is unstable (chimeral). The plant can revert to all-green (no pink) or produce all-pink leaves (which cannot photosynthesize and will die). Managing variegation requires pruning: when the plant produces consecutive all-green leaves, growers cut back to the last well-variegated node. Bright indirect light is essential; low light encourages green reversion. Tissue-culture production has made PPP more affordable (formerly $100+ per cutting), but well-variegated specimens still command higher prices than typical philodendrons. Climbing philodendron; a moss pole is provided. Toxic.
Native Range
The species Philodendron erubescens is native to Colombia and Costa Rica. 'Pink Princess' is a variegated selection.Suggested Uses
Used as a sought-after collector's houseplant. The pink-and-black contrast. Variegation management required. The 'PPP' of the houseplant world.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height2' - 4'
Width/Spread1' - 2'
Bloom Information
Rare indoors. The pink-and-black variegated foliage is the year-round display.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Red spadix with dark spathe (rare indoors)Foliage Description
Dark green to near-black with bubblegum pink variegated sectorsGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Needs bright indirect light. Keep it out of direct sun, which can scorch the leaves.
• Bright indirect light: a bright spot near a window, with no direct sun on the leaves
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Sited in bright indirect light, essential to maintain pink variegation. A moss pole is provided for climbing. Pruned back to a variegated node if reverting to all-green. All-pink leaves will die. Toxic.Pruning
Pruned to a well-variegated node if producing all-green or all-pink leaves. Moss pole support.Container Growing
Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 5 gallons
