Did you know that there are over 450 species of philodendrons? That’s right, these gorgeous tropical plants come in an astounding variety of shapes, sizes, and colors!

Today, I’m excited to share my ultimate shopping guide for fellow philodendron lovers. IT does not matter where you are. You might be just starting your collection or looking to add some rare beauties to your plant family. This guide will help you navigate the wonderful world of philodendrons.

What are some common Philodendron Varieties for Beginners

All right guys, listen up! If you’re just starting your philodendron journey, there are a few varieties that are perfect for beginners. These plants are like the golden retrievers of the plant world – friendly, forgiving, and hard to kill.

First on the list is the classic Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum).. It’s super easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of conditions. Plus, it’s a vining plant, so you can let it trail from a hanging basket or train it up a moss pole. Talk about versatile!

• Next up is the Philodendron Brasil. This beauty is a variegated form of the Heartleaf Philodendron, with stunning lime green and dark green leaves. It’s just as easy to care for as its all-green cousin, but with a bit more pizzazz. I’ve got one in my kitchen that’s been thriving for years, even though I sometimes forget to water it for weeks at a time. Oops!

• For those who prefer a more upright growth habit, the Philodendron Birkin is a great choice. This compact plant has dark green leaves with stunning white pinstripes. The Birkin is a bit slower growing than some other philodendrons, which is great if you’re short on space.

• Philodendron Red Emerald: This climbing philodendron has gorgeous, deep green leaves and red stems that add a pop of color to any plant collection. It’s one of the easiest plants to care for. Just give it something to climb on, and it’ll be happy as a clam.

Remember, even these “easy” varieties need proper care. Make sure they’re getting bright, indirect light. Always water them when the top inch of soil feels dry.  Don’t forget to dust those leaves occasionally – philodendrons love to be clean and shiny!

What are the advanced Philodendron Varieties for Collectors

Alright, plant nerds, this section is for you! If you’ve mastered the basics and are ready to level up your philodendron game.

here are some seriously cool varieties out there waiting for you. Just be warned – once you start collecting these beauties, it’s hard to stop!

Philodendron Pink Princess

This stunner has dark green leaves with splashes of bright pink variegation. When I first saw one, I thought it was too good to be true. But let me tell you, they’re real, and they’re spectacular. Just be prepared to shell out some serious cash for one of these beauties.

Philodendron gloriosum.

This plant is like the supermodel of the philodendron world – tall, elegant, and absolutely gorgeous. It has huge, heart-shaped leaves with striking white veins. Its leaves may become bigger than your own face. It has growth potential that outweighs thw rest of the philodendron.

For those who like a bit of texture, the Philodendron verrucosum is a must-have. Its velvety leaves feel like touching a cloud, I swear. Just be careful not to overwater this one – I learned the hard way that it likes to dry out a bit between waterings. RIP to my first verrucosum, you taught me a valuable lesson.

Philodendron melanochrysum.

Last but definitely not least is the Philodendron melanochrysum. This plant is like the goth kid of the philodendron world, with dark, almost black leaves that have a metallic sheen. When the light hits it just right, it looks like it’s glowing.

Remember, these advanced varieties often need more specific care than their easier cousins. High humidity, perfect lighting, and careful watering are key.

But don’t let that scare you off – the challenge is part of the fun! And trust me, when you see that first new leaf unfurls on your rare philodendron, you’ll feel like a proud plant parent.

Essential Tools for Philodendron Care

First things first, you’re gonna need some good pots. I’m talking about pots with drainage holes, people! Trust me, your philodendrons will thank you.

• You definitely need a good potting to grow a Philodendron Brasil. Now, you should always make sure to use pots with proper drainage, and add some extra perlite to potting mix for good measure.

• Potting Mix: Speaking of potting mix, that’s another essential tool in your philodendron care arsenal. I swear by a mix of regular potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark. It’s like a spa day for your plant’s roots – they can breathe, stretch out, and soak up just the right amount of water.

• Pruning shears: And don’t forget a good pair of pruning shears. You’ll need these bad boys to keep your philodendrons looking fresh and fabulous.

• Climbing Support System: OH, and let’s not forget about support systems. Some philodendrons, like the majestic Philodendron gloriosum, love to climb. Now, you should always have some moss poles or trellises on hand to get your climbing philodendrons the support they crave.

• Moisture meter: Last but not least, invest in a good moisture meter. I used to think I could just stick my finger in the soil to check if my plants needed water, but let me tell you, that method is about as reliable as a chocolate teapot. A moisture meter will help you avoid both under and overwatering, which are basically the kryptonite of philodendrons.

Where to buy these Rare Philodendron plant?

Alright, let’s talk about where to find the good stuff. It’s obvious isn’t it.

The internet, my friends, is a treasure trove of rare and exotic philodendrons.

One of my favorite online retailers is Etsy. I know, I know, you’re probably thinking, “Isn’t that for handmade jewelry and vintage clothes?”

But trust me, Etsy is a goldmine for plant enthusiasts. You can score some amazing finds there, including a variegated Philodendron Florida Beauty that will make you swoon every time you will  look at it.

Another great option is Steve’s Leaves. This online nursery is like Disneyland for philodendron lovers. They have an incredible selection of rare and hard-to-find varieties. You may spend a lot of times looking at rare varieties to find your perfect fit. It is totally worth checking out!

For those really rare specimens, I recommend checking out NSE Tropicals. They specialize in exotic aroids and have some of the most unique philodendrons. Fair warning though, their prices can make your wallet weep. but hey, sometimes you gotta treat yourself, right?

Where to buy philodendrons on a budget?

If you’re on a budget (because let’s face it, this hobby can get expensive), don’t overlook Facebook Marketplace and local plant swap groups.

You may find some great deals this way, and it’s always fun to meet other plant enthusiasts in your area. Just be sure to inspect any plants carefully for pests before bringing them home.