Philodendron Red Sun Vs Prince Of Orange: Comparing Two of The Most Popular Philodendrons

Oleh Jodi Nicolas May 26, 2023 Post a Comment

If you are a plant enthusiast or someone who loves to decorate their home with plants, then you must have heard about the Philodendron Red Sun and Prince of Orange. Both of these Philodendrons are popular for their striking foliage and easy-to-care nature. However, choosing between them can be difficult as they both have some unique features that set them apart from each other. In this blog post, we will take an in-depth look at both these plants, compare their characteristics, and help you make an informed decision.

Section 1: Overview

The Philodendron Red Sun and Prince of Orange belong to the same family but have some differences in their appearance. The Red Sun has dark green leaves with red edges, whereas the Prince of Orange has bright orange leaves that turn green as they mature. Both these plants have heart-shaped leaves and grow well in low light conditions.

Section 2: Origin

The Philodendron Red Sun is a hybrid of the Philodendron Erubescens and Philodendron McColley’s Finale. It was first developed in Thailand and is known for its vibrant coloration. On the other hand, the Prince of Orange is a cultivar of Philodendron X 'Imperial Green.' It was first discovered in Brazil and is famous for its orange-colored leaves.

Section 3: Size

The Philodendron Red Sun and Prince of Orange can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and wide, making them perfect for indoor spaces. However, the Red Sun tends to grow faster than the Prince of Orange, and its leaves can be larger as well.

Section 4: Light Requirements

Both the Philodendron Red Sun and Prince of Orange are low-light plants and can tolerate indirect sunlight. However, they thrive in bright, filtered light, which helps them maintain their coloration.

Section 5: Water Requirements

Philodendrons prefer moist soil but do not like to sit in water. It is recommended to water them once a week or when the top inch of soil is dry. The Red Sun and Prince of Orange require similar watering schedules.

Section 6: Humidity

Philodendrons love humidity and grow well in high humidity levels. You can increase the humidity level by using a humidifier or placing a tray filled with pebbles and water under the plant pot.

Section 7: Temperature

The Philodendron Red Sun and Prince of Orange thrive in temperatures between 60-75°F. They are sensitive to cold temperatures and should be kept away from drafts.

Section 8: Soil

Philodendrons grow well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite to create an ideal soil mix for these plants.

Section 9: Fertilizer

It is recommended to fertilize Philodendrons every two weeks during the growing season. You can use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Section 10: Propagation

Philodendrons can be propagated through stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings can be taken from the parent plant and rooted in water or soil. Division involves separating the roots of the parent plant into smaller sections and planting them separately.

Section 11: Toxicity

Philodendrons are toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The leaves and stems contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth and throat.

Section 12: Pests and Diseases

Philodendrons are prone to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Overwatering can also cause root rot, which can be detrimental to the plant's health.

Section 13: Price

The Philodendron Red Sun and Prince of Orange are both affordable plants and can be found at most nurseries or online stores. The price may vary depending on the size of the plant.

Section 14: Maintenance

Both these Philodendrons are easy to maintain and require minimal care. Regular watering, fertilizing, and pruning can keep them healthy and thriving.

Section 15: Final Verdict

Choosing between the Philodendron Red Sun and Prince of Orange ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you love vibrant colors, then the Red Sun is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a more subtle coloration, then the Prince of Orange is a better option. Both these plants are easy to care for and can add a touch of tropical elegance to any space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can Philodendrons grow in full sun?

A. No, Philodendrons do not like direct sunlight and can get burnt if exposed to it for too long.

Q2. How often should I water my Philodendron Red Sun or Prince of Orange?

A. You should water your Philodendron once a week or when the top inch of soil is dry.

Q3. Can Philodendrons grow in low light conditions?

A. Yes, Philodendrons can grow in low light conditions but will thrive better in bright, filtered light.

Q4. How tall can Philodendrons grow?

A. Philodendrons can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and wide.

Q5. Are Philodendrons toxic?

A. Yes, Philodendrons are toxic to pets and humans if ingested.

Q6. How can I increase the humidity level for my Philodendron?

A. You can increase the humidity level by using a humidifier or placing a tray filled with pebbles and water under the plant pot.

Q7. Can Philodendrons be propagated?

A. Yes, Philodendrons can be propagated through stem cuttings or division.

Q8. What kind of soil is ideal for Philodendrons?

A. Philodendrons grow well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite to create an ideal soil mix for these plants.

Q9. Are Philodendrons prone to pests and diseases?

A. Yes, Philodendrons are prone to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Overwatering can also cause root rot, which can be detrimental to the plant's health.