Large leaf philodendrons make any room look fresh and green. These plants bring the feel of a forest into your home with their big, pretty leaves. If you want to add a touch of nature to your living room, bedroom, or office, large leaf philodendrons are a great choice. They not only look good but also help clean the air you breathe.
Many people love large leaf philodendrons because they are easy to care for and grow well indoors. You don’t need to be a plant expert to keep them happy and healthy. With some basic care, these plants can live for many years and get bigger and more lovely over time.
In this guide, we will look at the best large leaf philodendrons for indoor spaces. We will talk about how to pick the right one for your home, how to take care of them, and which ones are the easiest to grow. By the end, you will know which large leaf philodendron is best for you.
Why Choose Large Leaf Philodendrons for Your Home?
Large leaf philodendrons can make a big impact in any room. Their size and shape catch the eye and create a focal point in your space. When you walk into a room with a large leaf philodendron, you can’t help but notice it. These plants stand out and make a statement.
These plants come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. Some have heart-shaped leaves, while others have split or lobed leaves. The color can range from light green to dark green, and some even have red or pink tints. This means you can find a large leaf philodendron that fits your style and the look of your home.
Large leaf philodendrons also help clean the air in your home. They remove harmful things from the air that you can’t see. This makes your home a healthier place to live. The Environmental Protection Agency notes that indoor plants can help improve air quality in homes.
These plants are also known for being easy to care for. They don’t need a lot of special care or fancy tools. They can grow in normal house light and don’t need to be watered too often. This makes them perfect for people who are new to plants or don’t have a lot of time to care for them.
Large leaf philodendrons can live for many years if you take good care of them. They can become a long-term part of your home. As they grow, they get more and more impressive, making your home look better and better over time.
Top Large Leaf Philodendrons for Indoor Growing
Philodendron Gloriosum
The Philodendron Gloriosum is a dream plant for many people. It has heart-shaped leaves that are dark green with white veins. The leaves are soft and feel like velvet when you touch them. This plant grows close to the ground and its leaves can get very large, up to 2 feet long.
The Philodendron Gloriosum likes bright, but not direct, light. It needs to be kept warm and likes moist but not wet soil. It grows slowly, which means it won’t need to be moved to a bigger pot very often. This makes it good for spaces where you want a plant that won’t outgrow its spot too fast.
This plant is not as easy to find as some other philodendrons. It may cost more and you might need to look for it at special plant shops or online. But many plant lovers think it’s worth the extra effort because it’s so pretty.
The Philodendron Gloriosum works well in living rooms and bedrooms where it can be a main focus. It looks great on a plant stand or table where its lovely leaves can be seen and enjoyed.
Philodendron Melanochrysum
The Philodendron Melanochrysum is known for its long, heart-shaped leaves that look like dark velvet. The leaves start out with a red or pink color and then turn a deep green that almost looks black. The veins on the leaves can have a gold or light green color, which stands out against the dark leaves.
This plant can climb or trail, so it’s good for shelves or walls where it can grow up. Its leaves can get up to 2 feet long when it’s happy. It likes bright, not direct, light and needs to be kept in a warm place.
The Philodendron Melanochrysum needs more care than some other philodendrons. It likes high humidity and needs to be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry. It’s not the best choice for people who are new to plants, but if you have some plant care know-how, it can be a stunning addition to your home.
This plant works well in spaces where you want to add a touch of drama. Its dark leaves make a strong visual impact and can be a talking point when friends visit your home.
Philodendron Birkin
The Philodendron Birkin is a unique plant with dark green leaves that have white or cream stripes. Each leaf is different, with some having more stripes than others. This makes each plant one of a kind. The leaves are shaped like ovals and have a glossy look.
This plant is newer to the plant world but has quickly become popular because of its special look. It doesn’t grow as large as some other philodendrons, making it good for smaller spaces or as a tabletop plant. It can grow to about 3 feet tall and wide.
The Philodendron Birkin is fairly easy to care for. It can handle lower light than some other philodendrons, though it grows best in bright, indirect light. It likes to dry out a bit between waterings, so it’s good for people who might forget to water from time to time.
This plant works well in home offices, on bookshelves, or in any spot where you want a plant that stands out but doesn’t take up too much space. Its unique striped pattern makes it an eye-catching addition to any room.
Philodendron Pink Princess
The Philodendron Pink Princess is a stunning plant that has dark green, heart-shaped leaves with pink spots. Each leaf is different, with some having more pink than others. This plant is very popular and can be hard to find.
This plant can climb or trail and can grow to be quite large over time. Its stems can get long, so it needs space to grow. It likes bright, indirect light and needs to be kept in a warm place. Too much direct sun can burn the pink parts of the leaves.
The Philodendron Pink Princess needs a bit more care than some other philodendrons. It likes high humidity and needs to be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry. It’s not the best choice for people who are new to plants, but its beauty makes it worth the extra effort for many plant lovers.
This plant works well as a focal point in a room. It can be placed on a plant stand or hung in a spot where its trailing stems and pink-spotted leaves can be seen and enjoyed.
Philodendron Hope Selloum
The Philodendron Hope Selloum, also known as the Tree Philodendron, is a large plant with big, deeply cut leaves. The leaves look like large hands with fingers spread out. They can grow up to 3 feet long and give any room a jungle look.
This plant grows in a clump and can get quite large over time, reaching up to 5 feet tall and wide. It needs space to spread out, so it’s best for rooms with plenty of floor space. It works well as a corner plant or as a focal point in a large room.
The Philodendron Hope Selloum is very easy to care for. It can handle a range of light levels, from low to bright indirect light. It doesn’t like direct sun, which can burn its leaves. It likes to dry out a bit between waterings, making it good for people who might not water their plants on a strict schedule.
This plant is a great choice for beginners or those who have had bad luck with plants in the past. It’s very hardy and can survive some neglect. It’s also fairly easy to find at most plant shops and garden centers.
Monstera Deliciosa
While not a true philodendron, the Monstera Deliciosa is often sold as one and shares many care needs. It’s one of the most popular large leaf plants for indoor spaces. Its large, glossy leaves with natural splits and holes make it instantly eye-catching.
The Monstera Deliciosa can grow quite large, reaching up to 8 feet tall and wide in indoor settings. It needs space to grow and spreads out as it gets older. The holes in its leaves, called fenestrations, become more pronounced as the plant matures.
This plant is fairly easy to care for. It likes bright, indirect light but can handle lower light levels, though it may grow more slowly. It likes to dry out a bit between waterings. It can benefit from being wiped down to keep its large leaves free of dust.
The Monstera Deliciosa works well as a floor plant in living rooms, bedrooms, or any space with enough room for it to grow. It has a strong visual impact and can fill an empty corner or bare wall with lush greenery.
Philodendron Xanadu
The Philodendron Xanadu is a compact plant with glossy, deeply lobed leaves. The leaves grow in a clump and create a full, bushy plant. The leaves are smaller than some other philodendrons but are still quite striking.
This plant doesn’t get as large as some other philodendrons, reaching about 3-4 feet tall and wide. This makes it good for spaces where you want a full plant but don’t have room for a giant one. It works well on plant stands, in large pots on the floor, or in group plant displays.
The Philodendron Xanadu is very easy to care for. It can handle a range of light levels, from low to bright indirect light. It likes to dry out a bit between waterings. It’s a good choice for beginners or those who have had bad luck with plants in the past.
This plant is fairly common and can be found at many plant shops and garden centers. It’s often sold as a mature plant, so you can enjoy its full look right away rather than waiting for it to grow.
Philodendron Brasil
The Philodendron Brasil is a trailing plant with heart-shaped leaves that have a bright yellow or lime green stripe down the middle. This gives it a very bright and cheerful look. It’s a type of Philodendron Cordatum (also called Philodendron Hederaceum) with variegated leaves.
This plant can be grown as a trailing plant or can be trained to climb. Its vines can grow quite long, up to 10 feet or more, making it great for hanging baskets or for growing up a moss pole or trellis. The leaves stay fairly small, about 2-3 inches long.
The Philodendron Brasil is very easy to care for. It can handle a range of light levels, though it needs some bright light to keep its yellow stripes bright. It likes to dry out a bit between waterings. It’s a good choice for beginners or those who have had bad luck with plants in the past.
This plant works well in hanging baskets, on shelves where it can trail down, or in any spot where you want to add a touch of brightness and color. It’s a common plant that can be found at many plant shops and garden centers.
Philodendron Congo
The Philodendron Congo, also known as Philodendron ‘Rojo Congo’, is a hybrid philodendron with large, glossy leaves. The leaves are oval-shaped and can be dark green, burgundy, or a mix of both colors. New leaves often have a reddish color that darkens as they mature.
This plant grows in a clump and can get quite large over time, reaching up to 3-4 feet tall and wide. It has a full, bushy look that makes it great as a floor plant or on a large table or plant stand.
The Philodendron Congo is fairly easy to care for. It likes bright, indirect light but can handle lower light levels. It likes to dry out a bit between waterings. It’s a good choice for beginners or those who have had bad luck with plants in the past.
This plant is commonly found at plant shops and garden centers. It’s often sold as a mature plant, so you can enjoy its full look right away rather than waiting for it to grow.
How to Choose the Right Large Leaf Philodendron
Think About Your Space
When picking a large leaf philodendron, first think about where you will put it. How much space do you have? Some philodendrons, like the Monstera Deliciosa or Philodendron Hope Selloum, need a lot of room to grow. They can get very big over time. If you have a small space, you might want to pick a smaller plant like the Philodendron Birkin or a trailing plant like the Philodendron Brasil that can be put on a shelf.
Also think about what the spot is like. How much light does it get? Is it warm or cold? Is it near a heater or air conditioner? These things can affect how well a plant will grow in that spot.
If you have a spot with lots of light, you have more options. Most philodendrons like bright, indirect light. If your spot doesn’t get much light, you might want to pick a plant that can handle low light, like the Philodendron Brasil or Philodendron Cordatum.
If you have kids or pets, you should also think about if the plant is safe. All philodendrons can be harmful if eaten. If this is a worry, you might want to pick a plant that can be hung up high or put on a tall shelf.
Consider Your Plant Care Skills
Some large leaf philodendrons are easier to care for than others. If you are new to plants or don’t have much time for plant care, you might want to pick an easy plant like the Philodendron Hope Selloum, Philodendron Brasil, or Philodendron Cordatum.
If you have more plant care know-how or are ready for a challenge, you might enjoy a plant that needs more care, like the Philodendron Gloriosum, Philodendron Melanochrysum, or Philodendron Pink Princess.
Keep in mind that larger plants may need more work for regular care. They need more water, more plant food, and can be harder to move or repot. Make sure you’re ready for this before you bring home a very large plant.
Think About Your Budget
Some large leaf philodendrons can be quite costly, especially rare ones like the Philodendron Pink Princess or Philodendron Gloriosum. If you’re on a tight budget, you might want to look for more common types like the Philodendron Hope Selloum, Philodendron Xanadu, or Philodendron Brasil, which are often less expensive.
Keep in mind that the cost of a plant is just the start. You’ll also need a pot, soil, and maybe a plant stand or hanger. You might also need to buy plant food or a spray bottle for misting. Make sure to include these costs in your budget.
If you’re really set on a rare philodendron but can’t afford a big one, you might be able to find a small baby plant (often called a “starter plant”) for less money. It will take time to grow, but it can be fun to watch your plant get bigger over the years.
How to Care for Your Large Leaf Philodendron
Light Needs
Most large leaf philodendrons like bright, indirect light. This means they should be near a window where they can get plenty of light, but not right in the sun where the rays hit them directly. Direct sun can burn their leaves.
If you don’t have a spot with bright, indirect light, don’t worry. Many philodendrons can handle lower light levels. They may grow more slowly, but they’ll still do well. Just make sure they’re not in a very dark spot with no natural light.
If you notice your philodendron’s stems getting very long and the leaves getting smaller, it’s probably not getting enough light. This is called “etiolation” and is a sign that you should move your plant to a brighter spot.
Water Needs
How often you need to water your large leaf philodendron depends on many things, like how big the plant is, how much light it gets, and what time of year it is. Most philodendrons like to dry out a bit between waterings.
A good rule is to check the soil with your finger. If the top inch or two feels dry, it’s time to water. If it still feels damp, wait a few more days and check again.
When you water, make sure to water enough that some water comes out the bottom of the pot. This helps make sure the whole root ball gets wet. Don’t let your plant sit in water, though, as this can cause root rot.
In the winter, you’ll probably need to water less often since the plant is growing more slowly and there’s less light. In the summer, you might need to water more often because of the heat and because the plant is growing more.
Soil and Pot Needs
Large leaf philodendrons do best in a well-draining potting mix. You can use a standard houseplant potting soil and add some perlite or orchid bark to help with drainage. This helps make sure the roots don’t stay too wet, which can cause rot.
Your pot should have holes in the bottom so extra water can drain out. Clay pots are good because they let the soil dry out more quickly, which can help prevent overwatering. Plastic or ceramic pots hold moisture longer.
The size of the pot matters too. It should be big enough for the roots but not too big. A pot that’s too big can hold too much water, which can lead to root rot. A good rule is to pick a pot that’s about 2 inches wider than the root ball of your plant.
Temperature and Humidity Needs
Large leaf philodendrons are tropical plants and like warm temperatures. They do best in temperatures between 65 and 85 degrees F. They don’t like cold drafts or sudden temperature changes, so keep them away from doors that open to the outside, air conditioners, or heating vents.
These plants also like high humidity, which can be hard to provide in some homes, especially in the winter when the air is dry. You can increase humidity around your plant by misting it with water, putting it on a tray of pebbles with water, or using a small humidifier.
If the tips of your philodendron’s leaves turn brown, it often means the air is too dry. Increasing the humidity can help prevent this.
Feeding Needs
Large leaf philodendrons benefit from regular feeding during the growing season (spring and summer). You can use a standard houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half the strength recommended on the package, every 4-6 weeks.
In the fall and winter, when the plant is not growing as much, you can fertilize less often or not at all. Too much fertilizer can harm your plant, so it’s better to under-fertilize than to over-fertilize.
If you notice the leaves of your philodendron turning yellow, it could be a sign that it needs more nutrients. Try giving it a light feeding and see if the yellowing stops.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Yellow Leaves
Yellow leaves on a large leaf philodendron can be caused by many things. The most common causes are overwatering, underwatering, or too much direct sun.
If the soil feels very wet and the pot is heavy, you may be overwatering. Let the soil dry out more between waterings. If the soil is very dry and the pot feels light, you may be underwatering. Water your plant more often.
If your plant is in a spot where it gets direct sun, the leaves can get sunburned and turn yellow. Move it to a spot with bright, indirect light.
Old leaves will naturally turn yellow and fall off as the plant grows. If just the oldest leaves at the bottom of the plant are turning yellow, this is normal and nothing to worry about.
Brown Leaf Tips
Brown tips on the leaves of your large leaf philodendron are often a sign that the air is too dry. Try increasing the humidity around your plant by misting it, putting it on a tray of pebbles with water, or using a small humidifier.
Brown tips can also be caused by too much fertilizer. If you think this might be the case, flush the soil by running water through it for a few minutes to wash away excess fertilizer. Then go back to a more moderate feeding schedule.
If the brown tips are very dry and crispy, your plant might be underwatered. Try watering more often and make sure you’re giving enough water to moisten the whole root ball.
Pests
Large leaf philodendrons can sometimes get pests like spider mites, mealybugs, or scale. These are small bugs that feed on the plant’s sap and can cause damage if not dealt with.
Spider mites are very tiny and can be hard to see, but they often leave fine webs on the plant. Mealybugs look like small white cotton balls. Scale looks like small brown or black bumps on the stems or leaves.
If you see pests, you can often remove them by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth. For a more serious infestation, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil, following the directions on the product.
Keeping your plant healthy and the leaves clean can help prevent pest problems. Regularly wiping the leaves with a damp cloth can remove dust and keep an eye out for any early signs of pests.
Which Large Leaf Philodendron Is Best for You?
After looking at all the options, you might be wondering which large leaf philodendron is best for you. The answer depends on your space, your plant care skills, and what look you want.
If you’re new to plants, start with an easy-care plant like the Philodendron Hope Selloum, Philodendron Xanadu, or Philodendron Brasil. These plants are hardy and can handle some neglect if you forget to water or don’t get the light just right.
If you have a small space, the Philodendron Birkin or Philodendron Brasil might be best. They don’t get as large as some other philodendrons and can fit on a shelf or small table.
If you have a large space and want a dramatic plant, the Monstera Deliciosa or Philodendron Hope Selloum would be good choices. They grow large and have a strong visual impact.
If you’re ready for a plant that needs a bit more care and want something unique, the Philodendron Gloriosum, Philodendron Melanochrysum, or Philodendron Pink Princess could be the right choice. These plants are more rare and can be a fun challenge for more experienced plant owners.
No matter which large leaf philodendron you choose, remember that all plants need time to adjust to a new home. Don’t worry if your plant drops a leaf or two when you first bring it home. With the right care, it will soon settle in and start to grow.
Conclusion
Large leaf philodendrons are a great choice for indoor spaces. They bring a touch of the tropics into your home and can make any room look more fresh and alive. With their big, green leaves, they create a focal point and can fill empty spaces with lush greenery.
These plants are generally easy to care for, making them good even for people who are new to plants. They can handle a range of light levels and don’t need to be watered too often. With some basic care, they can live for many years and get more impressive over time.
Whether you choose an easy-care plant like the Philodendron Hope Selloum, a unique plant like the Philodendron Pink Princess, or a classic like the Monstera Deliciosa, a large leaf philodendron can be a beautiful addition to your home. By thinking about your space, your plant care skills, and your budget, you can find the perfect philodendron for you.
Remember, the best plant is the one that makes you happy when you look at it. Choose a plant that you love and that fits your lifestyle, and you’ll enjoy it for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my large leaf philodendron needs to be repotted?
You should repot your large leaf philodendron when it outgrows its current pot. Signs that it’s time to repot include roots growing out of the drainage holes, water running straight through the pot without soaking the soil, or the plant becoming top-heavy and tipping over. Most philodendrons need to be repotted every 2-3 years. Spring is the best time to repot since the plant is starting its growing season.
Can large leaf philodendrons live in low light?
Yes, many large leaf philodendrons can live in low light conditions, though they may grow more slowly. Plants like the Philodendron Brasil, Philodendron Cordatum, and Philodendron Xanadu can do well in spots that don’t get much direct light. However, very low light can cause the plant to grow long, leggy stems as it stretches toward the light. If your space has very low light, you might want to add a grow light to help your plant thrive.
How big will my large leaf philodendron get?
The size your large leaf philodendron will reach depends on the type of plant and the care it gets. Some, like the Monstera Deliciosa or Philodendron Hope Selloum, can get quite large, reaching 5-8 feet tall and wide in indoor settings. Others, like the Philodendron Birkin or Philodendron Brasil, stay smaller. The amount of light, water, and nutrients your plant gets also affects its size. Plants that get ideal care tend to grow larger than those that don’t get perfect conditions.
Are large leaf philodendrons safe for homes with pets?
Large leaf philodendrons contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can be harmful if eaten by pets or children. If a pet or child chews on the plant, it can cause irritation in the mouth, tongue, and throat, as well as vomiting and trouble swallowing. If you have pets or small children, it’s best to keep these plants out of reach or choose a pet-safe plant instead. If you think your pet has eaten part of a philodendron, contact your vet right away.
How do I make my large leaf philodendron grow faster?
To help your large leaf philodendron grow faster, make sure it has the right conditions. Place it in a spot with bright, indirect light, as light is key for growth. Water it when the top inch of soil is dry, and make sure it’s in a well-draining soil mix. Feed it with a balanced houseplant fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Keep it in a warm spot, as cold can slow down growth. Regularly clean the leaves to remove dust, which can block light. With good care, your plant should grow steadily.
