If you’re a fan of exotic plants with striking colors, Philodendron White Wizard is a must-have for your collection. This hybrid of Philodendron erubescens has gained immense popularity over the years, along with other rare variegated houseplants like pink princess Philodendron, Monstera Thai constellation, and Monstera albo. However, this tropical beauty is difficult to find and comes with a high price tag due to its stunning variegation. It’s worth mentioning that Philodendron White Wizard is toxic to both pets and humans if ingested, so handle it with care.
Plant Profile
- Common Name: White Wizard Philodendron
- Botanical Name: Philodendron erubescens ‘White Wizard’
- Family: Araceae
- Plant Type: Perennial, vine
- Mature Size: 8-10 ft. tall (indoors)
- Sun Exposure: Partial
- Soil Type: Moist but well-draining
- Soil pH: Acidic
- Bloom Time: Spring, summer
- Flower Color: Green, white
- Hardiness Zones: 9-11, USDA
- Native Area: Hybrid, no native range
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets, toxic to humans
Care
Growing White Wizard Philodendron indoors can be challenging, but with proper care, it can produce plenty of stunning, variegated foliage. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:
Light
White Wizard Philodendron needs bright but indirect light to thrive. It requires more light than non-variegated plants as its leaves have less chlorophyll, so avoid low-light conditions. At the same time, harsh sunlight can easily damage its delicate leaves, so place it in a location that receives several hours of bright, indirect light.
Soil
White Wizard Philodendron prefers rich, well-draining potting mixes. A mix of equal parts indoor potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark mix is nutrient-rich and well-draining while retaining some moisture.
Water
Allow the potting mix to dry out slightly before watering. Water thoroughly, allowing any excess water to drain from the pot’s drainage holes. Overwatering can cause root rot, so be mindful of the watering schedule.
Temperature and Humidity
White Wizard Philodendron prefers warm conditions and average household humidity levels. Increase humidity by placing a humidifier nearby or growing your plant on a small pebble tray. Avoid exposing it to cold temperatures.
Fertilizer
Regular fertilization helps encourage healthy variegated growth. Apply a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every two to three weeks during spring and summer, and stop fertilizing during fall and winter.
Pruning
Pruning isn’t necessary but can control growth or encourage fresh variegation. Prune during the plant’s active growing period in spring or summer, and use freshly sterilized pruning shears to avoid introducing harmful bacteria.
Propagating Philodendron White Wizard
Propagating White Wizard Philodendron by stem cuttings is easy to do. Here’s how to propagate your plant in a few simple steps:
- Soak dried sphagnum moss in water for at least 15 minutes to rehydrate.
- Take a few stem cuttings from a healthy plant using sterilized pruning shears or scissors, ensuring each cutting has at least three to four nodes and one or more leaves.
- Remove the bottom leaves to expose the nodes, leaving at least one leaf on top.
- Place the cuttings in the moist moss in a small container so that the bare stem is covered with the moss while the leaves are above it.
- Cover the container with a clear plastic bag to create a greenhouse-like environment.
- Put the container in a warm, humid location that receives several hours of bright, indirect light.
- Check the container periodically to ensure that the moss remains moist, and the cutting should begin rooting after a couple of weeks.
- Once the roots are at least an inch long, transfer the cutting to soil and water well.
Potting and Repotting
Repot White Wizard Philodendron once every one to two years in the spring or summer. Choose a pot that’s two to four inches larger than the plant’s previous container and repot with fresh, well-draining soil mix.
Pests and Diseases
Watch out for common pests like spider mites, thrips, fungus gnats, and scale. These insects can take refuge in your tropical plant if given the chance, so treat with an insecticide or neem oil at the first sign of an infestation. Additionally, the plant can develop fungal leaf spots, which appear as small yellow, red/orange, or brown spots on the leaves. Move your plant away from other plants and treat with a copper-based fungicide to combat the disease. Finally, keep the plant’s humidity levels in check as high humidity can promote bacterial growth, leading to root rot.
Common Problems
Lack of variegation, leggy growth, and yellow leaves are common problems with White Wizard Philodendron. But all these problems are easily solvable if you monitor your plant’s light, water, and humidity levels. If you’re unsure, try adding a grow light to make sure your plant receives the right amount of brightness.
Philodendron White Wizard is challenging but highly rewarding if you follow these care guidelines. Its stunning variegation and exotic beauty will undoubtedly add charm and elegance to any indoor decor.