How to Grow and Care for Philodendron 'Imperial Green'

Philodendron ‘Imperial Green’ is a cultivar of Philodendron erubescens and is distinguished by its broad and oval-shaped green leaves.

In contrast to other philodendron varieties that have a climbing habit, philodendron imperial green grows upright and doesn’t need any extra support, like a moss pole.

It requires bright, indirect sunlight, nutrient-rich, well-draining soil, and prefers temperatures above 65°F.

The plant foliage of the plant is toxic to people and pets. 

Philodendron Imperial Green Care

For a vibrant and healthy philodendron imperial green, follow these basic care requirements:

• Plant in a well-draining potting mix.
• Place in bright, indirect light.
• Water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry to the touch.
• Fertilize during the spring and summer growing months.

Light

Philodendron imperial green does best in a location that receives bright, indirect light. Full or intense afternoon sun can have a detrimental effect on the plant’s foliage.

Soil

Loamy soil is the best option for philodendron imperial green. It allows for efficient drainage, which prevents the soil from remaining overly saturated, which can lead to root rot in houseplants.

Water

How frequently philodendron imperial green needs to be watered depends on environmental conditions like light and humidity levels.

The best gauge is soil dryness; water when the soil feels dry to the touch at a depth of 2 inches. Mature plants are drought-tolerant and have a forgiving nature if you occasionally extend the time between waterings.

Temperature and Humidity

This cultivar thrives in warm, humid conditions like other philodendron varieties. It does best in temperatures above 65°F, which explains its success as a popular houseplant or outdoor plant in USDA growing zones 9 to 11.

Upon maturity, it can tolerate a short spell of temperatures as low as 25°F to 30°F but it’s best to move the plant indoors if there is the chance of extended periods of cold weather.

Fertilizer

While fertilizer is not always required, philodendrons are classified as heavy feeders. You can support the plant’s foliage with a high-nitrogen fertilizer formula applied at half-strength during the growing months. 

Propagating Philodendron Imperial Green

Philodendrons are typically propagated through cutting, division, or air layering. However, since philodendron imperial green is a cultivar, it has unique characteristics that make it a challenge to propagate through the usual methods.

For instance, the stem between the nodes (known as the internode), is short and not ideal for taking a cutting for propagation.

Many nurseries propagate philodendron imperial green using a tissue culture and this plant is generally not successfully propagated at home. 

Potting and Repotting Philodendron Imperial Green

With a moderate-to-fast growth rate, you will likely need to repot this philodendron variety every year or two until it reaches maturity (a height of about 3 feet).

It’s usually recommended to repot when the plant doubles in size or if you see roots protruding from the pot’s drainage holes.

Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting, rather than in the fall or winter when growth occurs at a slower rate. 

To repot philodendron imperial green, choose a pot that is 1 or 2 inches larger than the current pot. Gently loosen the plant from the existing pot and shake out excess dirt from the root ball.

Fill the new pot with fresh potting mix and plant the philodendron. Water thoroughly.

Common Problems With Philodendron Imperial Green

Most philodendrons are easy to grow, as long as they're provided with the right balance of light, water, and humidity.

The same is true for the imperial green variety, although here are the most common problems to be on the watch for.

Leaves Turning Yellow

If the glossy green leaves of a philodendron imperial green plant begin to turn yellow, it’s most likely related to overwatering or poor soil drainage.

Too much soil saturation can lead to root rot, which is a common problem for many popular houseplants.

The best course is to reduce watering frequency, keeping in mind that you should water this plant when the top two inches of soil is dry to the touch, rather than routinely watering on a fixed schedule. 

You should also check the plant’s root system for signs of root rot. An infected plant will have mushy, foul-smelling brown roots.

If that’s the case, you’ll need to remove the plant from the pot, trim away all infected roots, and replant in fresh, well-draining soil mix. 

Leaves Turning Brown

Like other types of philodendrons, this plant needs bright, indirect light. Too much intense sun exposure can cause the leaves to turn brown and crispy.

For indoor philodendron imperial green plants, an east-facing window with morning sun is a good location.

Alternatively, you can choose a spot in a southern- or western-facing room, but be sure that it’s in a location that doesn’t receive direct sun exposure for an extended part of the day.