Aeonium haworthii Kiwi is a vibrant, multicolored succulent that instantly brightens any plant collection with its rosettes of soft green, golden yellow, and rosy pink edges. Native to the Canary Islands, this sun-loving species is admired for its cheerful tones that deepen under bright light, giving each rosette a painterly gradient of color. Aeonium Kiwi thrives in mild temperatures and well-draining soil, making it ideal for sunny patios, balconies, or indoor spaces with good light. Its compact form and symmetrical growth pattern make it perfect for container gardens or decorative arrangements alongside other succulents. Beyond its beauty, this plant is remarkably easy to care for requiring only moderate watering and seasonal attention. Whether used as a statement piece, a decorative accent, or a heartfelt gift, Aeonium ‘Kiwi’ captures the joy of nature in a colorful, easygoing form that delights growers of all experience levels.
Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ is a stunning tropical plant admired for its dark, velvety green leaves splashed with shades of soft pink. Native to the warm rainforests of Colombia, this rare beauty belongs to the Philodendron erubescens species and has become a true favorite among houseplant lovers around the world. Its lush foliage and bold variegation bring a pop of color and elegance to any indoor space, making it perfect for plant enthusiasts who want something both striking and easy to grow.
This captivating plant thrives in bright, indirect light and appreciates a balance of warmth, humidity, and occasional watering, conditions that mimic its tropical origins. With just a little care and attention, the Pink Princess rewards you with vibrant new leaves and healthy growth throughout the year.
Whether displayed on a shelf, in a corner of your living room, or gifted to a fellow plant lover, Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ never fails to make a statement. Let’s explore how to care for this royal beauty and help it stay radiant in your indoor jungle.
LIGHTING
Light plays the biggest role in keeping your Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ beautifully pink. Those rosy streaks appear because parts of the leaves don’t contain chlorophyll, the green pigment that helps plants photosynthesize. When your plant gets enough light, it doesn’t need to produce as much chlorophyll to stay healthy, which lets the pink variegation shine through even more.
In low light, however, your Pink Princess will try to adapt by creating more chlorophyll. That means new leaves may grow greener, and over time, the plant can lose its pink tones altogether. Too much direct sun, on the other hand, can scorch the delicate leaves, leaving pale or brown patches.
The sweet spot is bright, indirect light for most of the day. Place your plant near a sunny window with filtered light or in front of an east-facing window where it can enjoy a few hours of gentle morning sun. Avoid dark corners or spaces with limited light, this rare beauty needs consistent brightness to keep her color glowing.
WATERING
Finding the right watering rhythm is key to keeping your Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ happy and healthy. Although this plant comes from naturally moist tropical environments, it doesn’t like sitting in soggy soil. Instead, it thrives when the soil stays slightly moist but well-draining. The roots are especially sensitive to excess water, making the plant prone to root rot if the soil remains wet for too long.
Always allow the top two to three inches of soil to dry completely before watering again. A simple way to check is by using your finger; if the soil feels dry, it’s time to water. Rather than watering on a fixed schedule, monitor your plant’s needs and adapt based on your home’s temperature, light, and humidity levels. These factors can change daily, and watering on a rigid routine often leads to either overwatering or underwatering.
If you ever suspect you have overwatered, perhaps noticing soft stems, drooping leaves, or a musty smell, take action quickly. Gently remove your plant from its pot, inspect the roots, and trim away any mushy or blackened parts before repotting into fresh, well-draining soil.
For an easier way to keep track of soil moisture, consider using a moisture meter. Insert it a few inches into the soil, and it will show you when it’s time to water again, no guessing required. Keeping the balance between moisture and drainage will reward you with lush, glossy foliage and vibrant pink variegation all year round.
TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY
Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ is a tropical beauty that thrives in warm, humid conditions similar to its native rainforest environment. Ideally, it grows best between 65°F and 85°F, which also happens to be the most comfortable temperature range for most homes. While it can tolerate slight fluctuations, growth will slow or even stop outside of the 60°F to 90°F range due to temperature stress. Cold temperatures can be particularly harmful to your Pink Princess. Exposure to temperatures below 50°F can damage plant cells, leading to brown or black patches on the leaves and, in severe cases, the decline of the entire plant.
If you live in a cooler region or experience chilly winters, move your plant to the warmest spot in your home, away from drafts or cold windows. As for humidity, this Philodendron enjoys a moderately humid environment. A level around 60% is ideal, but it will adapt well to normal indoor humidity levels above 40%. When humidity drops too low, especially during dry winter months, you may notice browning at the leaf tips or edges. This happens as the plant reduces moisture loss, which increases internal heat and causes the leaves to dry out.
To keep your plant happy, consider placing it near a humidifier, grouping it with other plants to naturally raise humidity, or setting it on a pebble tray filled with water. Regular misting can also help in drier climates, but avoid overdoing it to prevent fungal issues. Maintaining consistent warmth and moisture in the air will keep your Pink Princess lush, glossy, and full of that signature pink charm.
SOIL AND FERTILIZER
The right soil mix plays a big role in keeping your Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ healthy and vibrant over time. This plant loves soil that is light, airy, and well-draining while still holding just enough moisture to keep its roots hydrated. A good potting mix should provide both water retention and aeration, allowing oxygen to reach the roots easily.
Regular garden soil is often too heavy and compact for indoor plants, trapping too much moisture and suffocating the roots. Instead, start with a high-quality indoor potting mix and amend it for better structure. A great combination includes two parts potting soil, one part coconut coir, and one part perlite. Coconut coir, a sustainable alternative to peat moss, keeps the mix light and helps retain just the right amount of water. Perlite, made from volcanic glass, improves drainage and prevents compaction. Adding a handful of orchid bark is also beneficial, as it allows more airflow around the roots while holding light moisture.
If you prefer something ready-made, a well-balanced houseplant mix can be found at most nurseries or online stores. These blends often include the same ingredients and work perfectly for Philodendrons, saving time for those who don’t want to mix their own soil.
As for feeding, your Pink Princess will appreciate a gentle boost during its growing season in spring and summer. Use a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month. Avoid fertilizing during the fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows down. Keeping the soil nutrient-rich and breathable will help your Pink Princess maintain its stunning variegation and strong, healthy roots.
TOXICITY
The Pink Princess Philodendron might look harmless with its glossy leaves and pink variegation, but it’s one to keep away from your pets. Like other philodendrons, it contains insoluble calcium oxalates, natural compounds that can irritate the mouth and throat if ingested. Cats and dogs that take a nibble may drool, paw at their mouths, or have trouble swallowing. While the effects are rarely severe, it’s best to play it safe.
Place your Pink Princess somewhere out of reach, high shelves, hanging planters, or pet-free corners are ideal. If you ever suspect your pet has chewed on the plant, even just a little, contact your vet as soon as possible. A quick response can help prevent unnecessary discomfort and ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy.
Image by @PrincePrincessHome
EXTRA CARES
POTTING AND REPOTTING
Choosing the right pot and soil mix is key to keeping your Pink Princess Philodendron healthy and vibrant. This tropical beauty thrives in a well-draining mix that allows air to reach its roots while holding just enough moisture to keep them comfortable. A blend of potting soil, coconut coir, and perlite creates the perfect balance, light, airy, and moisture-retentive without becoming soggy. Always make sure your pot has drainage holes to prevent excess water from sitting at the bottom, as this plant is especially prone to root rot.
Your Pink Princess doesn’t need frequent repotting, but refreshing its home every one to two years helps promote new growth and keeps the soil from compacting. Spring is the best time to do this, giving the plant a fresh start as it enters its active growing season. Choose a pot that’s just one or two inches wider than the current one, philodendrons prefer a slightly snug fit, and too much extra space can trap moisture around the roots.
To make the process smoother, water your plant a day before repotting. Gently remove it from its container, loosen any tangled roots, and inspect for signs of rot or damage. Place it into the new pot, fill in with fresh soil, and press lightly to secure the plant without compacting the mix. Avoid using gravel or rocks at the bottom; a good-quality potting mix and proper drainage holes will do all the work. Finish with a thorough watering, and your Pink Princess will settle happily into its new home.
PROPAGATION
Propagating your Pink Princess Philodendron is a rewarding way to grow your collection or share this stunning plant with others. Thankfully, it’s also one of the easiest houseplants to propagate. The most common and successful method is through stem cuttings taken from a healthy, mature plant.
The best time to propagate is in spring or early summer when your Pink Princess is actively growing. This ensures the cutting has plenty of energy to develop strong roots and new leaves. Begin by selecting a healthy stem with at least two or three leaves and a few exposed nodes, these small bumps are where new roots will eventually grow.
Using a pair of clean, sharp pruning shears, cut just below one of the nodes and remove the leaves on the lower portion of the cutting, leaving only one or two at the top. Let the cutting rest for about 12 to 24 hours so the end can callus slightly, reducing the risk of rot once it’s placed in water.
Once the cut end has dried, place the cutting in a glass of room-temperature water in a bright spot with plenty of indirect light. Be sure that the exposed nodes remain submerged, as this is where new roots will form. Replace the water every few days to keep it fresh and oxygenated.
After two to three weeks, you should start to see delicate white roots emerging from the nodes. When the roots are at least one inch long, your new Pink Princess is ready to be transferred to soil. Plant it in a small pot with a well-draining mix and water thoroughly to help it settle into its new home.
PRUNING
Regular pruning is an important part of caring for your Pink Princess Philodendron, keeping it healthy, vibrant, and beautifully balanced in color. This tropical beauty naturally grows as a climbing vine, so trimming it occasionally helps control its size, encourage bushier growth, and maintain that perfect mix of pink and green on its leaves.
The best time to prune your Pink Princess is in spring, when the plant enters its active growing season. You can also prune in summer if needed, especially when the vines begin to stretch out or lose their variegation. Always use clean, sharp pruning shears and disinfect them between cuts with alcohol or diluted bleach to prevent the spread of disease.
When pruning, focus on removing any leaves that are completely pink or entirely green. Leaves that lack variegation often indicate an imbalance in chlorophyll production, which can spread if not trimmed back. Cut the stem just above a leaf node, the small bump where new leaves and roots form. From that node, new growth will soon emerge, often with more balanced pink and dark green variegation.
If you spot any damaged or diseased leaves, remove them right away. This not only preserves the plant’s overall health but also redirects its energy toward new, healthy growth. With a little attention and timely pruning, your Pink Princess will stay compact, lush, and stunningly colorful all year long.
COMMON PROBLEMS
Like most tropical houseplants, the Pink Princess Philodendron can face a few challenges if conditions aren’t quite right. Keeping an eye out for early warning signs is the best way to ensure your plant stays healthy and vibrant.
One of the most common issues is pest infestation. Tiny invaders like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs are particularly fond of the tender new growth and the undersides of leaves. You may notice fine webbing, sticky residue, or small cotton-like clusters as the first signs of trouble. At the first sign of pests, isolate your plant to prevent them from spreading and treat it with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Regularly wiping the leaves with a damp cloth can also help keep these pests away.
Overwatering is another frequent problem for Pink Princess owners. Consistently soggy soil can lead to root rot, which causes yellowing leaves, mushy stems, and a foul smell from the potting mix. If this happens, remove the plant from its pot, trim off any soft or decayed roots, and repot it in fresh, well-draining soil. Allowing the soil to dry out between waterings is key to preventing future rot.
Fungal diseases can occasionally occur in environments with poor airflow or high humidity. To prevent this, make sure your plant is placed somewhere with good air circulation and avoid letting water sit on the leaves for long periods.
Ultimately, prevention is the best cure. A consistent care routine, regular inspection, and attention to your plant’s environment will keep your Pink Princess thriving for many years, showing off those striking pink and green leaves that make it such a prized collector’s plant.
