Indoor plant lovers are always on the lookout for unique and eye-catching houseplants that not only enhance their living spaces but also offer a sense of personal style. Among the many tropical plants that have become popular in recent years, two philodendrons stand out for their bold foliage and ease of care: the Philodendron Black Cardinal and the Philodendron Prince of Orange. These two beauties offer a vibrant contrast and can serve as statement pieces in any indoor plant collection.
In this blog, we’ll explore why the Philodendron Black Cardinal and Philodendron Prince of Orange are a stunning duo for plant enthusiasts, covering their characteristics, care needs, aesthetic appeal, and how they complement each other when displayed together.
The Appeal of Philodendrons
Philodendrons are a beloved genus of tropical plants known for their low-maintenance care, tolerance to indoor environments, and dramatic foliage. With over 400 species and cultivars, philodendrons offer a wide array of shapes, sizes, and colors. Among these, the Black Cardinal and Prince of Orange have risen in popularity due to their bold and colorful leaves, compact growth habits, and architectural presence.
Meet the Philodendron Black Cardinal
The Philodendron Black Cardinal is a hybrid cultivar known for its striking, dark foliage. As its name suggests, the plant produces glossy leaves that emerge in a deep burgundy color and gradually mature to almost black. The bold coloration and smooth, oval leaves give the Black Cardinal a dramatic and modern look—perfect for minimalist or contemporary interiors.
This variety grows in a rosette form, staying relatively compact and making it an ideal choice for tabletops, shelves, or low-light corners. It prefers indirect light and thrives in warm, humid environments, though it can tolerate average indoor conditions quite well.
Introducing the Philodendron Prince of Orange
In contrast, the Philodendron Prince of Orange dazzles with its vibrant, sunset-colored foliage. New leaves emerge in shades of bright orange, then slowly change to golden yellow and finally settle into a light green as they mature. This constantly shifting color palette gives the plant an ever-changing appearance that draws attention and admiration.
Unlike vining philodendrons, the Prince of Orange has a self-heading growth habit, meaning it grows upward from a central stem rather than spreading out. This makes it another excellent option for indoor settings where space is limited but visual impact is desired.
Why They Make the Perfect Pair
When placed together, the Philodendron Black Cardinal and Philodendron Prince of Orange create a stunning visual contrast. One offers the deep, brooding tones of near-black leaves, while the other explodes with fiery oranges and yellows. This combination of light and dark, cool and warm, makes for a visually balanced yet bold statement.
From a design perspective, these two plants can be used to create focal points in any room. Whether positioned side-by-side on a plant bench or staged at varying heights on a tiered plant stand, they create a harmonious blend of colors and textures that elevate your space.
Care Tips for Both Varieties
Despite their striking appearances, both the Philodendron Black Cardinal and the Philodendron Prince of Orange are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable even for beginner plant owners.
Light
Both plants prefer bright, indirect light but can adapt to moderate light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves—especially the tender new growth on the Prince of Orange.
Water
Let the top inch of soil dry out before watering. Overwatering is a common issue with philodendrons, so make sure the pot has proper drainage and avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Humidity & Temperature
As tropical plants, they both appreciate humidity, but they’ll tolerate standard indoor levels. You can mist the plants occasionally or place them near a humidifier. They thrive in temperatures between 65–80°F (18–27°C).
Fertilization
Feed monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer. Reduce feeding in the fall and winter when growth slows down.
Styling Your Home with the Duo
Design-savvy plant parents can use these philodendrons in a variety of interior settings:
- Modern Spaces: The sleek, dark foliage of the Black Cardinal complements monochromatic or modern design themes.
- Boho & Eclectic Styles: The warm, cheerful hues of the Prince of Orange pop beautifully against natural wood tones and vibrant textiles.
- Office Decor: Their upright growth habit and low-maintenance needs make both ideal choices for office desks or lobby spaces.
Whether placed together in a bright sunroom or scattered across different rooms for pops of color, these two plants are sure to become conversation starters.
Final Thoughts
For plant lovers seeking both beauty and functionality, the Philodendron Black Cardinal and Philodendron Prince of Orange make a dynamic and low-maintenance pair. Their stunning foliage colors and contrasting styles offer visual interest year-round, while their similar care requirements make them easy to manage together.
If you’re looking to expand your indoor jungle or start one with statement-making plants, this colorful duo is a perfect place to begin. Embrace the elegance of the Black Cardinal and the fiery charm of the Prince of Orange—your plant collection will thank you.
