Philodendron White vs Princess and White Knight

Philodendrons are valued for their green leaves and ease of care, so they are popular in indoor gardens. There are many varieties, with hundreds of species, so philodendrons are very diverse. One interesting topic is the difference between the Philodendron White Princess vs White Knight. These two have beautiful leaves that capture the eye. Although people confuse them, the Philodendron White Princess and Philodendron White Knight are different types, each with its own beauty.

At The Harden Garden, we are passionate about assisting you in growing healthy indoor jungles. In this guide, we take a detailed look at the Philodendron White Princess and White Knight, highlighting their key differences and providing useful care tips to assist you in selecting the best plant for your room and maintaining it in tip-top condition.

Main Points

• Variegation Style: The White Princess features white patterns on its leaves that are bright and usually in different sections. The White Knight features whiter, creamy-white to yellow edges and sometimes presents patterns in sections as well.
• Stem Color: A key distinction! White Princess has green stems, whereas White Knight has dark burgundy to reddish-purple stems.
• Leaf Shape: White Knight leaves are narrower and slightly longer, while White Princess leaves are rounded and wider.
• Growth Habit: Both are climbers, but White Knights will become slightly more upright initially.
• Care Requirements: Both require the same care requirements. Both of them prefer bright indirect light, draining soil, and watering often.

Learning from the Philodendrons: White Princess and White Knight

Let's examine the characteristics of each philodendron so we can see how they differ:

Philodendron White Princess

• Variegation: It has white spots that are really bright. The white appears as large, irregular patches on the leaves, which provide a nice contrast to the green. This type of variegation is sometimes referred to as sectoral variegation. No two leaves are ever identical, and so each plant is a one-of-a-kind work of art.
• Stem: The green stem is a feature that clearly distinguishes it from the White Knight.
• Leaves: It tend to be more rounded, broader, and slightly thicker.
• Growth: A relatively moderate climber, forming climbing habit.
• Scientific Name: Philodendron erubescens 'White Princess' (cultivar of Philodendron erubescens).

Philodendron White Knight

• Variegation: Exhibits creamy-white to yellowish patches, typically along the leaf margins. This is referred to as marginal variegation. Sectoral variegation (patches) can also occur, but edge markings are more typical.
• Stem: The star feature! White Knight boasts lovely burgundy to reddish-purple stems, a stunning sight.
• Leaves: Leaves are more elongated, narrower, and slightly more elongated in shape compared to the White Princess.
• Growth: It will slightly grow taller in its early stages, and later on, it will be a climber.
• Scientific Name: Philodendron 'White Knight' (hybrid cultivar, not necessarily officially standardized scientific name but generally bestowed on Philodendron erubescens material).

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Care Instructions for Philodendron White Princess and White Knight

Good news! White Princess and White Knight require the same type of care, so they are relatively easy to care for, even for a plant novice. Streamlining your plant care process is necessary to maintain their vibrant colors.

• Light: Bright, filtered light is best. Direct sunlight will burn their dainty variegated leaves. An east- or north-facing window is best.
• Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Don't overwater, as this leads to root rot. Ensure good drainage in your pot. They prefer soil to be consistently moist but not wet.
• Soil: Use a well-draining potting medium. Aroid-mix or a potting soil mix with perlite and orchid bark is good.
• Humidity: Philodendrons prefer higher humidity (50-70%). Boost humidity with a humidifier, pebble tray, or plant in clusters.
• Temperature: Average room temperature is 65-80°F or 18-27°C. Avoid placing them in drafts or at extreme temperatures.
• Fertilization: Feed every month during growth (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength. Stop or cut back on fertilizing in fall and winter.
• Pruning: Prune for form, eliminate yellowed or bruised leaves, and promote bushy growth. Root stem cuttings!
• Support: Provide climbing plants with a moss pole, trellis, or stake to support them as they grow. This encourages them to grow larger leaves.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions Regarding White Princess and White Knight Philodendrons

Q: Are White Princess and White Knight uncommon?

A: Both are extremely popular and more easily found now, but they are not quite as ubiquitous as regular green philodendrons.

Q: Which is more expensive, White Princess or White Knight?

A: Prices vary, but in general, White Knights might be a bit more expensive because of their unique stem color and maybe slower growth rate.

Q: Can White Knight and White Princess turn back green?

A: Yes, as with any variegated plant, they can revert back to green if they are not provided with sufficient light. Keep them in bright, indirect light to keep them variegated.

Q: How do I plant the White Princess and White Knight?

A: Stem cutting is the most popular and effective method used. Ensure that your cuttings are with nodes and place them in water or directly in moist soil to let them root.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Variegated Philodendron

The Philodendron White Princess and White Knight are very nice plants to have around the house. It's a question of what you like.

Select White Princess if you prefer light white designs and the traditional green stem appearance.

Select White Knight if: You prefer the showy burgundy stems and the whiter, creamier edges on the leaves. Whatever you choose, you'll have a beautiful plant that is relatively low maintenance.

Would you like to include a Philodendron White Princess or White Knight in your home? Checkout The Harden Garden today and explore our selection of beautiful and exotic philodendrons and other indoor plants!