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How to Propagate Philodendron Plants (All Varieties Explained)

Philodendrons are among the easiest houseplants to propagate when you understand how their growth nodes work. Whether you are propagating a Heartleaf, Pink Princess, White Knight, Silver Sword, or a large split-leaf philodendron, the basic principles remain the same.

The most important requirement for successful philodendron propagation is a healthy node. Without a node, new roots will not form.

What Is a Node on a Philodendron?

A node is the section of stem where leaves, aerial roots, and new growth originate. When propagating philodendrons, your cutting must include at least one node for roots to develop.

Nodes are usually found just below a leaf joint
Aerial roots often emerge from nodes on climbing varieties
Self-heading varieties still contain nodes, but they are closer together

This applies to all varieties, including Pink Princess, White Wizard, Prince of Orange, Xanadu, Selloum, and Silver Sword.

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How to Propagate Philodendron in Water

Water propagation is the most common and beginner-friendly method. It works well for climbing and self-heading philodendrons.

1) Take a cutting: cut just below a node using clean scissors.
2) Remove lower leaves: leave the node exposed.
3) Place in water: submerge the node, not the leaves.
4) Bright indirect light: avoid direct sun.
5) Change water: every 3–5 days.

Roots usually appear within 1–3 weeks. Once roots reach 3–5 cm, the cutting can be transferred to soil.

How to Propagate Philodendron in Soil

Soil propagation creates stronger root systems early and is often preferred for larger varieties like Selloum, Xanadu, and tree philodendrons.

Use a free-draining indoor potting mix
Insert the node just below the soil surface
Keep soil lightly moist, not wet
Maintain warmth and humidity

Soil propagation may take slightly longer to show visible growth, but roots adapt more easily once established.

Propagation Notes by Variety Type

Climbing varieties: Heartleaf, Brasil, Micans, Silver Sword — easiest to propagate from stem cuttings.
Self-heading varieties: Birkin, Prince of Orange, Xanadu — propagate from stem sections with visible nodes.
Variegated types: Pink Princess, White Knight, White Wizard — propagate slowly and require bright indirect light.

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Caring for Newly Propagated Philodendrons

Once a cutting develops roots and is transferred to soil, care should focus on stability rather than rapid growth.

Keep light bright but indirect
Maintain consistent moisture
Avoid fertilising immediately after potting

After 2–3 weeks, gentle feeding can support new leaf development.

For indoor plants, use a controlled fertiliser such as Indoor Plant Food Fertiliser with NPK 16-4-14, formulated to support steady foliage growth without stressing young roots.