Spotlight on Philodendron Prince of Orange
From the distinguished Philodendron genus, the Prince of Orange is a cultivated hybrid with a colorful display. The compact plant is commonly featured as a houseplant but can also be grown outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zone 10 (i.e., certain warmer, humid climates). Prince of Orange is a versatile plant that is low-maintenance and very simple to care for— after all, it was bred to be a phenomenal grower under indoor conditions. So if you’re looking for an easy or beginner plant that’s not your run of the mill houseplant, Prince of Orange is for you.
Name: Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ (aka Orange Prince)
Origin: While the Prince of Orange is a hybridized cultivar, it does come from a long lineage of philodendrons. From the Aroid family, the philodendron genus originates from South America. Typically in the wild, they’re ground level rainforest plants that are shaded by the above canopy level.
About: With long, oval-shaped leaves the Prince of Orange was bred for tough conditions with leathery and thick foliage. Each new glossy leaf shows off varying colors and morphs through color stages as they age— as new growth unfurls, it’s vibrantly orange, then changes to a coppery hue, to a yellow, and finally bright green. Since the plant is self-heading, each new leaf sprouts from the center of the plant. And as new growth comes in, expect older leaves to die and fall off. This is a plant that indoors can grow to about 2 feet high to 2 feet wide.
Indoor Care: For all indoor plant care, it’s helpful to channel the plant family’s natural habitat. Of course, we can’t (nor shouldn’t) recreate rainforest environments, but it is worthwhile to note that we can introduce extra humidity when needed and provide shaded light. Bright, indirect light is recommended, but what does that mean? Well for the most viable conditions, consider a spot for the plant that isn’t too light or too dark. A location that doesn’t get direct sun rays, but is somewhat bright (so someplace other than that dark corner) will be best. This philodendron will be happy just about anywhere inside near a northern or eastern-facing window. It’ll also be fine near a southern or western facing window as long as it’s backed up far enough to not experience those direct sunbeams. You’ll know if your plant is getting too much sun because the color will start to fade and similarly, if too little sun, the new growth may not be as brilliant.
As for moisture, the Prince of Orange isn't too finicky and is usually quite forgiving if you under-water. The plant will tolerate a varying degree of humidity. And as for water, you’ll want to allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out before giving another drink. When you water, pour generously, allowing the excess to stream out the bottom of the pot. As with all plants however, do not let any water sit in the saucer or bottom of the pot after watering. Simply pour the extra water out. While this philodendron isn’t too particular about moisture, the one thing it won’t tolerate is overwatering. Just remember moderation for all things (water, light, temperature, moisture) for this one.
Extra Care: Prince of Orange has a tendency to grow towards natural light. Rotating the plant periodically can help prevent uneven growth and leaning. To encourage healthy growth, fertilize about once a month during spring and summer. We recommend using half of the suggested amount on the bottle or box of fertilizer since they’re all vastly different strengths. Over-fertilizing can cause leaf burn, so err on the side of caution.
Repotting may be necessary every year or so, and you can repot using regular potting soil mix. Just ensure that it’s well-draining.
Buy Online: 6" Prince of Orange
Toxicity: Philodendrons are considered toxic to cats, dogs, and humans upon ingestion on plant material. Specifically, the plant contains calcium oxalate crystals which have demonstrated to be a skin and mouth irritant.
Interesting Tidbit: As mentioned, Prince of Orange was cultivated with a purpose-- as stated from the original patent, it was developed in “effort directed toward developing tough, leathery, Philodendron which are compact, self-heading, excellent growers and keepers under in-house environments.” Further, “the plant performs best under normal in-house conditions with minimum care… [and] is resistant to bacterial leaf rot and fungal leaf spot”.