Most philodendrons are green, which is exactly why the dark-leaf ones stand out. Their new leaves open burgundy, red or nearly black, and some keep that dark tone as they mature. Here are three rare dark philodendrons, how to tell them apart, and how to keep their color.
| Philodendron | What stands out |
|---|---|
| Red Heart | Dark green, almost black leaves with a red flush that shifts with the light |
| Majesty | Matte burgundy-black leaves and matte black stems |
| Dark Lord | Burgundy-red new leaves that mature to very dark green with a metallic maroon underside |
1. Philodendron Red Heart
Red Heart has dark green leaves that look almost black. The same plant can read green in one photo and black in the next, depending on how the light hits it, and a red flush runs through the dark green.
2. Philodendron Majesty
Majesty is the matte one. New leaves open a deep burgundy to black and turn a little lighter as they harden, and the stems stay matte black. That flat finish is the easiest way to tell it apart from glossier dark hybrids.
3. Philodendron Dark Lord
Dark Lord’s leaves emerge a strong burgundy red, almost black, and fade to a very dark green with a metallic maroon underside. The leaves are long, heart-shaped and pointed.
It is a climber, so give it a moss pole or plank and the leaves grow larger. It tolerates lower light than many philodendrons, but new leaves keep their red color best in bright, indirect light. Philodendron Dark Lord is available in our catalog.
How to keep dark philodendrons dark
- Light: bright, indirect light. Too little light gives smaller, greener leaves; harsh direct sun bleaches and burns them.
- Water: let the top 2 to 3 cm of the mix dry between waterings, and never leave the pot standing in water.
- Soil: a chunky aroid mix of bark, perlite and some coir or peat.
- Support: climbing types make bigger leaves on a moss pole.
- Warmth and humidity: keep them above about 15 °C (60 °F); 50 percent humidity or more helps new leaves open cleanly.
- Feeding: a diluted balanced fertilizer once a month in spring and summer.
Frequently asked questions
Why are my dark philodendron’s new leaves green?
Usually not enough light. Move it closer to a bright window, out of direct midday sun, and the next leaves should come in darker.
Are dark philodendrons toxic to pets?
Yes. Like all philodendrons they contain calcium oxalate crystals, which irritate the mouth of cats and dogs. Keep them out of reach.
Want more rare philodendrons? See the rare philodendron index or browse our plant catalog.
