How to Grow and Care for Philodendron Tangerine

The Philodendron Tangerine is a hybrid houseplant popular for its dynamic foliage. This plant is a cultivated variety, a hybrid of the Philodendron Prince of Orange and the Philodendron Moonlight. Its appeal lies in the color transformation of its leaves, which provides a continuous display of warm tones.

Unique Characteristics

The defining feature of the Philodendron Tangerine is its leaf color’s life cycle. New leaves emerge in a vivid tangerine or coppery-orange hue. As these leaves mature, they transition through shades of bronze before settling into a deep green. This constant flux means a single plant can display a spectrum of colors simultaneously, creating a multi-toned appearance.

Unlike vining philodendrons, the Tangerine is a self-heading variety. It grows upright from a central base, forming a compact, bushy rosette of leaves. The leaves themselves are narrower and more pointed compared to the wider leaves of its relative, the Prince of Orange. This growth habit makes it suitable for tabletops or floor displays.

Philodendron Tangerine Care

Light

Proper lighting is the primary factor in maintaining the plant’s vibrant coloration. The plant thrives in medium to bright, indirect sunlight. An east-facing window that provides gentle morning sun or a spot a few feet from a west-facing window is ideal. In lower light, new leaves will emerge pale yellow or lime green instead of bright orange. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.

Soil

This plant requires a well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot. A good potting medium combines standard indoor potting mix with amendments like perlite, orchid bark, and coco coir to improve aeration.

Water

Determine watering frequency by soil moisture, not a fixed schedule. Allow the top two inches of the soil to dry out completely before watering again. When watering, saturate the soil until water runs from the drainage holes. Discard any excess water from the saucer to prevent the plant from sitting in water.

Temperature and Humidity

The Philodendron Tangerine flourishes in warm, humid conditions. It prefers temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Protect the plant from cold drafts from windows, doors, and air conditioning vents. It adapts to average household humidity but performs best with higher levels. To increase humidity, you can group it with other plants, place it on a pebble tray with water, or use a room humidifier.

Fertilizer

During the spring and summer growing season, the Philodendron Tangerine benefits from regular feeding to support its growth. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer for indoor plants, diluted to half-strength, once a month. Over-fertilizing can cause salt buildup in the soil, burning the roots and leading to brown leaf tips. In fall and winter, reduce fertilizing to every six to eight weeks as growth slows.

Propagating Philodendron Tangerine

As a self-heading variety, the primary propagation method is division. Mature plants may produce offshoots, or “pups,” at the base, which can be separated during repotting.

To divide the plant, remove it from its pot and loosen the soil to identify the offshoots. Use a clean knife to cut the pup away, ensuring the new division has its own roots. Pot the new division in a separate container with fresh soil. Water the new plant lightly and place it in a location with bright, indirect light to encourage new growth.

Common Problems

Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering or underwatering; check the soil moisture to diagnose the cause. Brown, crispy leaf tips are a sign of low humidity or underwatering. Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Spider mites leave fine webbing, while mealybugs appear as white, cottony masses. Treat pests by wiping leaves with a damp cloth or using insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Toxicity Information

All parts of the Philodendron Tangerine are toxic to humans and pets if ingested. The plant contains sharp, insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. If chewed or swallowed, these crystals embed in the soft tissues of the mouth and throat.

This can cause immediate symptoms, including:

• Oral irritation
• Intense pain and swelling of the lips and tongue
• Excessive drooling
• Vomiting
• Difficulty swallowing

Place the plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion is suspected, contact a medical professional or veterinarian immediately.