Philodendron Imperial Green – Care & Growing Guide

Philodendron Imperial Green is a striking hybrid with large, glossy dark green leaves and a self-heading, rosette growth habit. Unlike climbing philodendrons, Imperial Green remains upright and compact, making it an ideal choice for modern interiors. The rigid petioles with a pink-tinged sheath add an extra decorative element, while its short internodes (~1 cm apart) ensure a dense, full appearance.

Discovered among random seedlings in Florida in 1977, it was later cultivated and patented in Belgium by Paul DeCoster in 1988 (USPP6086P). The fast growth rate, resilience, and adaptability of this hybrid make it a favorite for both beginners and experienced plant owners.

Philodendron 'Imperial Green' - Key Features and Benefits:
 
Compact, self-heading growth – No moss pole required.
Glossy, dark green elliptical leaves – Slightly undulating edges with a translucent margin.
Fast-growing and low-maintenance – Thrives indoors with minimal effort.
Resilient and adaptable – Handles a range of indoor conditions.
Decorative petioles – Pink-tinged sheaths contrast with deep green foliage.
 
Philodendron 'Imperial Green' - Natural Habitat & Growth Information
Though Imperial Green is a hybrid with unknown parentage, it shares traits with philodendrons from South American rainforests, where they thrive under warm temperatures (20–30°C), high humidity (70–90%), and filtered light. Indoors, this plant maintains a moderate size while retaining its dense, leafy appearance.
 
Growth rate: Fast for a self-heading philodendron.
Growth habit: Upright, self-supporting rosette form.
Size indoors: Reaches 60 cm in height and 30–33 cm in width in less than a year.
Toxicity: Toxic to pets and humans due to calcium oxalate crystals.
 
 
How to Care for Philodendron Imperial Green
 
Light: Thrives in bright, indirect light but tolerates lower light. Avoid prolonged direct sun to prevent leaf scorching.
Watering: Allow the top 3–4 cm of soil to dry before watering. Avoid soggy soil, as overwatering can cause root rot.
Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity (50%+). If the air is dry, group with other plants or use a humidifier.
Temperature: Best growth occurs between 18–27°C. Avoid temperatures below 13°C, as cold stress can cause leaf damage.
Soil: Use a well-draining, airy mix with peat, perlite, and orchid bark. Avoid compacted soils.
Repotting & Pot Choice: Repot every 1–2 years into a slightly larger pot. Avoid oversized pots to prevent excess moisture retention.
Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks to support strong growth. Avoid excessive feeding, which can lead to salt buildup.
Pruning: Remove old, yellowing, or damaged leaves to encourage healthy new growth.
Propagation: Best propagated via stem cuttings or tissue culture. Cuttings can root in water or soil.
Hydroponics & Semi-Hydroponics: Adapts well to LECA or full hydroponic systems with proper nutrient solutions.
 

Philodendron 'Imperial Green' - Common Issues and Solutions 
 
Pests: While resilient, it can occasionally attract thrips, spider mites, mealybugs, and fungus gnats.
Solution: Wipe leaves regularly and use neem oil or insecticidal soap as needed.
 
Root Rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause mushy roots and yellowing leaves.
Solution: Trim affected roots and repot into fresh, well-draining soil.
 
Browning Leaf Tips: Usually caused by low humidity, over-fertilization, or inconsistent watering.
Solution: Maintain steady humidity and ensure proper watering practices.
 
Yellowing Leaves: Indicates overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies.
Solution: Adjust watering habits and apply a balanced fertilizer.
 
Fungal Issues: Black spots or soft patches on leaves may indicate excess moisture.
Solution: Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
 
Drooping Leaves: Typically a sign of underwatering, cold stress, or transplant shock.
Solution: Adjust watering and keep in a stable environment.
 
Additional Notes & Growth Tips for Philodendron 'Imperial Green'
Imperial Green remains compact with short internodes, making it ideal for small spaces.
Its self-supporting structure eliminates the need for staking or a moss pole.
Rarely flowers indoors, but when it does, it produces oblong red-purple buds with a pink spathe and white spadix.
Naturally resistant to leaf dust accumulation, but occasional wiping keeps it looking fresh.
 
Etymology
The genus Philodendron derives from the Greek words "philo" (love, affection) and "dendron" (tree), though Imperial Green is an exception to the climbing nature of most philodendrons. The cultivar name reflects its bold, lush foliage and strong, upright structure. This plant was developed in Belgium by Paul DeCoster and was patented in 1988 (USPP6086P).
 

FAQs about Philodendron 'Imperial Green'

1. Does Philodendron Imperial Green need support?
No, it has a self-heading growth habit and does not require a moss pole.

2. Can it grow in low light?
Yes, it tolerates medium to low light, but for best growth, provide bright indirect light.

3. Is it safe for pets?
No, it contains calcium oxalate crystals, making it toxic to pets and humans if ingested.

Order your Philodendron Imperial Green today and enjoy a statement plant with bold, glossy foliage that thrives in any indoor space.