Philodendron Pink Princess is an iconic variegated aroid with bubble‑gum pink sectors on deep burgundy foliage. This UK‑focused guide covers lighting, watering, soil, humidity, feeding, pruning, support, repotting, pests, propagation and how to keep that pink variegation bright and stable.
At a glance
- Light: Bright, indirect (avoid harsh midday sun)
- Temperature: 18–27°C
- Humidity: 55–70% ideal
- Water: When top 2–4cm is dry
- Soil: Airy aroid mix with excellent drainage
- Feeding: Light, frequent during spring–summer
Light requirements (for strong pink)
Variegated leaves have less chlorophyll, so they need more light to power growth. Place near an east window or 1–2m back from a south window with a sheer. In winter, a 20–40W LED grow light for 10–12h/day helps preserve pink hues.
Watering routine
Water thoroughly, then allow the top layer to dry. Pink Princess dislikes cold, waterlogged compost—especially in UK winters.
- Spring–Summer: typically every 5–9 days.
- Autumn–Winter: every 10–18 days.
Soil mix (airy & fast‑draining)
- 40% peat‑free compost or coco coir
- 30% orchid bark
- 20% perlite
- 10% pumice or horticultural charcoal
This structure keeps roots oxygenated and reduces rot. Mix in a handful of worm castings for gentle nutrition.
Humidity & temperature
Pink sectors are prone to crisping in very dry air. Aim for 55–70% humidity; group plants, use a small humidifier and keep away from radiators and draughts. Keep above 15°C.
Feeding schedule
- Mar–Sep: Balanced liquid fertiliser at 1/4–1/2 strength every 2–3 weeks.
- Oct–Feb: Monthly at 1/4 strength or pause if growth slows.
Flush pots with plain water every 6–8 weeks to prevent salt build‑up that can brown pink areas.
Pruning & training
Use clean shears to shape vines and remove weak green growth. Train up a moss/coir pole to encourage larger leaves and stronger variegation. Rotate weekly for even colouring.
Repotting
Repot every 12–18 months in spring, sizing up only 2–3cm to avoid a mass of wet compost. Refresh the mix even if you don’t change pot size.
Common pests
Check weekly for thrips, spider mites and mealybugs—particularly on pink tissue and new growth. Treat with insecticidal soap weekly for 2–3 weeks and isolate affected plants. Improve airflow and avoid overwatering to deter fungus gnats.
Propagation
Choose a cutting with a visible node (and ideally an aerial root). Root in water or moist sphagnum at 22–26°C with bright, indirect light. Pot up when roots are 5–8cm long.
Keep the pink bright
- Increase light (indirect) if new leaves emerge dark.
- Don’t let the plant stretch towards dim light.
- Prune back to a node showing pink if a vine goes mostly green.
Troubleshooting quick table
| Symptom | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Pink sectors fading | Insufficient light | Move closer to window or add LED grow light |
| Brown edges on pink | Low humidity / fertiliser salts | Raise humidity; flush pot; reduce feed strength |
| Yellow lower leaves + wet soil | Overwatering | Let mix dry; check pot has drainage; repot into airy mix |
Summary
Bright, indirect light, a chunky mix, careful watering and modest feeding will keep your Pink Princess growing well and showing off vivid pink variegation.
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