15 Weird & Wonderful Facts About the Pink Princess Plant

Everyone’s obsessed with the Philodendron Pink Princess Plant. But here’s the truth: it’s a mutation-prone, finicky diva that drives growers nuts. One day it’s popping bubblegum pink; the next, it reverts to green and refuses to grow for three weeks. And although plant lovers were prepared to pay over $100 for a mere cutting some years ago, $30-$40 is still seen as a bargain.

Sound dramatic? It is. But once you know what this plant actually is, you’ll understand why it’s still worth it.

Define the Philodendron Pink Princess Plant

Few beat the jaw-dropping foliage of the Philodendron Pink Princess. With its bubblegum-splashed variegation and dark velvet leaves, this variegated Philodendron erubescens is the ultimate statement plant for collectors and pink-loving plant parents.

It’s native to the tropical rainforests of Colombia and the Amazon basin. A true tropical indoor houseplant that looks stunning growing in indirect sunlight on a moss pole.

But here’s the catch: Many plant collectors buy a pink foliage plant for the color, then realize they’ve just brought home a diva. The variegated foliage fades. The growth slows. And suddenly, that $80 plant starts looking like any old philodendron.

Worse? Some buyers confuse it with artificially pinked-up lookalikes like the infamous Pink Congo that quickly lose color.

That’s where this guide comes in. Whether you’re eyeing your first Pink Princess or trying to rescue one that’s gone green, these 15 fascinating facts will help you understand what makes this plant with pink leaves so special—and how to get the most out of it.

What Makes Pink Princess Plant So Special?

This isn’t just a pretty plant—it’s the main character in any indoor garden. The Philodendron Pink Princess plant is one of those rare tropical beauties that shows off with unapologetic flair: glossy, heart-shaped leaves splashed with streaks of hot pink, bubblegum blush, and dark green drama.

It’s not painted. It’s not dyed. Those pink plant leaves are the real deal—thanks to a quirky genetic twist that blocks chlorophyll in just the right places to reveal pink pigmentation.

That gives you those unpredictable, eye-catching patterns: stripes, speckles, half-moons. Every leaf is basically nature’s version of abstract art.

How do you know the real thing?

• Glossy, heart-shaped, attractive leaves with pink patches or pink-veined edges
• Burgundy stems that deepen as the plant matures
• No weird neon glow (if it looks fake, it probably is—Pink Congo, we see you)
• Blush tones that stick around with the proper indirect sunlight

And here’s the kicker—it’s not just gorgeous. It’s totally doable. The Pink Princess thrives in bright, indirect light and doesn’t need a full-time plant sitter. She just wants some attention, a humid environment, and well-draining potting soil.

Why Do Some Plants Have Pink Leaves? (What Science Says)

Let’s clear this up: those candy-pink and green leaves aren’t just flaunting their good looks for Instagram. They’re actually pulling off a genius survival move thanks to pigments like anthocyanins. These pigments can appear pink, red, purple, or blue depending on pH levels and light exposure.

Here’s the deal—plants with pink leaves are often showing off anthocyanins, , a natural pigment that gives us everything from red wine hues to purple cabbages. In plants like the Pink Princess, these pigments rise to the spotlight when chlorophyll steps back—either due to a mutation, light exposure, or stress.

How does science explain what’s going on with this tropical houseplant?

In science-speak, the variegated leaves are doing more than turning heads. Anthocyanins act like tiny bodyguards. They protect baby leaves from sunburn, help the plant handle wild weather swings, and even outshine chlorophyll when it comes to filtering light in shady spots.

So while you’re admiring those blush tones, the plant’s quietly hustling behind the scenes—regulating light, dodging damage, and keeping things photochemically chill. 

15 Essential Facts About the Pink Princess Philodendron (7 Common, 8 Rarely Shared)

Think you know the Pink Princess plant? Maybe. But this pink-leafed heartbreaker still has secrets—some you’ve seen in reels, others buried in grower forums. These facts go beyond the hype to show why it’s a favorite pink houseplant with surprisingly complex behavior.

This Plant Exists Because of a Rare Mutation (And That’s Why It’s So Pricey)

The Pink Princess plant isn’t dyed, painted, or edited—it’s pink by nature. That splash of color comes from a rare genetic mutation that blocks chlorophyll in parts of the leaf. Where the green pigment fades, anthocyanins take over, bringing bold pink foliage with it.

This mutation makes the plant a true variegated variety, not a temporary trend. Each leaf is a genetic gamble, which is why growers and collectors obsess over getting those millennial pink streaks just right. It’s also what makes Pink Princess one of the most expensive tropical beauties around.  

You’ll Never Own the Same Pink Princess Twice—Here’s Why

Plants with pink leaves are like fingerprints—no two are alike. Each one carries a different blend of pink streaks, speckles, or half-moon swirls depending on light conditions, humidity, and the plant’s mood.

Some green and pink leaves show bold color blocking with pink edges or deep green patterns. Others turn into delicate mosaics of blush tones and veined leaves. This unpredictability keeps collectors chasing “unicorn leaves” and makes every new unfurl a bit of a reveal.  

That Iconic Pink? It’s Technically a Plant Deficiency

That soft pink hue isn’t added—it’s what’s missing that matters. Pink Princess leaves lose chlorophyll in certain areas, allowing other pigments, like anthocyanins, to shine through. This absence of green is what gives the plant its signature splash of pink.

But there’s a trade-off. Pink leaves can’t photosynthesize as efficiently as dark green ones. That’s why too much pink can slow the plant’s growth, and why light balance is everything when growing this color-transitioning beauty. ,  

Want More Pink? Blast It With Light (But Not Too Much)

Want more pink? Start with your light. Bright indirect light helps trigger stronger pink variegation by keeping green pigment in check. Without enough light, leaves may fade back to plain green, no matter how fancy the plant once looked.

Too much direct sunlight, though, can scorch those delicate pink patterns. Aim for a brighter spot near a window with filtered light. It’s a sweet spot that keeps pink leaves vibrant without frying them into crispy leaves or developing sunburned patches.

Too Much Green? Chop It Ruthlessly (Seriously, It’ll Thank You)

 If your Pink Princess starts throwing all-green leaves, it’s not broken—it’s just trying to survive. One plant lover said, “Mine lost almost all its pink until I chopped the green stems. Then bam—pink came back.” Pruning is key.

For the best pink princess plant care, cut back to the last pink node to redirect energy. It’s a bold move, but seasoned growers swear by it. 

Why This Pretty Plant Will Drain Your Wallet—And Why It’s Still Worth It

The Pink Princess plant isn’t your average pink houseplant, and the price reflects that. True specimens are grown from cuttings or tissue culture, not mass-produced seeds. One Reddit user said, “I paid $85 for mine and still feel like I got a deal.”

You’re paying for rarity, not hype. Stable variegation, slow growth, and high demand make it one of the most sought-after pink-leaved plants on the market.

Pink Princess vs. Pink Congo: The Scam Most Beginners Don’t See Coming

Don’t get duped—Pink Princess and Pink Congo may sound similar, but only one holds its pink. The Congo’s blush comes from chemical treatment, and color on the variegated leaves fades fast.

One user warned, “My Pink Congo was green within weeks. Total disappointment and a complete waste of money.” Pink Princess is the real deal. Its pink foliage is natural, stable, and here to stay, with the right light and care.  

Yes, It Climbs—And It’ll Take Over Your Shelf If You Let It

Pink Princess isn’t just pretty—it’s a climber at heart. In the wild, it grows up tree trunks, reaching for filtered light. Indoors, a moss pole or stake mimics that natural habitat and encourages larger, more dramatic leaves.

One grower shared on a plant forum that their plant took off once it had something to grip. Upright stems = happy growth and even bolder pink patterns. Even a simple moss pole is enough to encourage rapid growth and encourage its aerial roots to grow well.

Humidity Isn’t Optional—Pink Princesses Hate Dry Air

Pink Princess isn’t a fan of dry air. This tropical beauty craves a humid environment—ideally above 60%. One user noted, “I moved mine near the humidifier and finally started seeing pink again.” Without moisture, the leaves can crisp, curl, or lose their color intensity.

Cluster it with other plants, try a pebble tray, or mist regularly. The more humidity, the happier (and pinker) the beautiful plant gets.  

Forget Watering Schedules—Your Pink Princess Will Tell You When It’s Thirsty

Overwatering is the fastest way to wreck your pink varieties of philodendrons. One plant parent confessed, “I followed a schedule and nearly drowned it. Now I check the top inch of soil instead.” That top layer should feel dry before you reach for the watering can.

Stick with well-draining potting soil mix and skip the guesswork. Let your plant, not your planner, call the shots. Here are the top tips to avoid root rot:

• Plant in the right soil type in a well-draining potting mix.
• Ensure its location is part shade but still gets plenty of bright light to mimic the native areas where it grows.
• Only water when the top 2 inches of soil are dry

If the Pink Fades, Don’t Panic—Here’s What’s Really Going On

Noticing more green than pink lately? Your Pink Princess might be trying to tell you something. When stressed, this variegated plant can lose its rosy touch, and it’s more common than most plant parents realize.

On Reddit, one frustrated grower shared that their plant was “only pink on the emergent” but turned pale and white with maturity. Others chimed in with similar stories, linking the fading to low light, overwatering, or inconsistent temperatures.

One plant collector shared: “It had great pink variegation when I got it, but it started throwing all-green leaves after a few weeks of too little light. However, I made the mistake of putting it in direct light, and the sun cause brown spots on the leaves to develop.” 

Sorry, Cat Moms—This Stunning Plant Isn’t Pet Friendly

Pink Princess might look sweet, but it’s not pet-friendly. Like other philodendrons, it contains insoluble calcium oxalates that can irritate your cat’s or dog’s mouth, stomach, or tongue. The ASPCA lists variegated philodendron as toxic to both cats and dogs if ingested; even small amounts can cause discomfort.

One plant parent said, “I caught my cat chewing a leaf and rushed straight to Google.” If you’ve got curious pets, keep this plant on a high shelf or in a pet-free room. Beautiful, yes. But best admired at a distance by your four-legged roommates.

My article on what to do if your cat eats a snake plant has helpful advice.  

You Only Need One Node—But Here’s Why Most Cuttings Fail

One of the best things about Pink Princess? You can grow another from just one node. All you need is a stem with a visible node (that little bump where leaves and roots form) and a bit of patience. No need for a full leaf, though having one helps with photosynthesis.

Some plant lovers say they’ve had faster success rooting in water, while others swear by moss or soil propagation from stem cuttings. Keep humidity high and light bright but indirect. If the node is healthy, you’ve got a shot at growing a whole new splash of color.

Top tip: Dipping the cut end in rooting hormone can help speed up propagatiom

The Prettiest Leaves Grow the Slowest (And It’s Infuriating)

There’s a reason your green leaves come faster than the pink ones. Pink areas lack chlorophyll, which means they can’t convert light into energy like green sections do. That slows down the whole process—beautiful, yes, but not in a hurry.

One grower joked, “Every pink leaf takes forever, but it’s worth the wait.” My advice? If the pink philodendron variety is growing slowly, don’t panic. She’s just working extra hard to give you that pop of color.  

Instagram’s Most Overhyped Plant? Maybe. But We Still Love Her

Pink Princess didn’t just trend—it exploded. This plant became a viral favorite during the houseplant boom, with Instagram reels and TikTok time-lapses capturing every glossy unfurl.

One Redditor said, “I bought it after seeing it five times on my feed in a single day. No regrets.” Its mix of pink patterns, dark green leaves, and millennial plant vibes makes it camera-ready. But behind the likes? A plant that rewards real care with real beauty. It’s hype with roots. 

Bonus Sections

How to Care for a Pink Princess Philodendron

The Pink Princess Philodendron thrives with bright, indirect light, consistent humidity, and well-draining potting soil. To keep its pink foliage vibrant, avoid overwatering, prune green growth, and place it in a warm spot with filtered light. This pink-leaved plant grows slowly but rewards good care with stunning, one-of-a-kind leaves.

• Light: Bright, indirect light is non-negotiable. A brighter spot = pinker leaves. No direct sunlight—those glossy leaves will burn.
• Watering: Wait until the top inch of soil is dry. Use your finger—don’t guess. Overwatering leads to root rot and faded leaves.
• Fertile soil: Use a chunky, well-draining potting soil. A mix of perlite and orchid bark for aroids keeps roots breathing.
• Humidity: Aim for 60% or higher. This tropical beauty loves a humid environment. Add a humidifier or group with other plants.
• Temperature: Keep it cozy—65–80°F is ideal. Avoid cold drafts and dry heat near vents.
• Feeding: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly in spring and summer. Ease up in fall and skip winter.
• Pruning: Cut back all-green leaves to encourage pinker growth. Always use clean shears and cut just above a node.
• Support: Give it a moss pole or stake to mimic its natural habitat. Climbing encourages bigger, bolder foliage growth.

Why not check out my Complete Guide to Caring for Philodendron erubescens?

How to Keep the Pink (And Stop It From Going Green)

Keeping those gorgeous pink leaves isn’t magic—it’s a mix of light, consistency, and a little plant-parent intuition. The most common frustration I hear (and yep, I’ve lived it too) is: “It was pink when I bought it, now it’s just green.” Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

When I first brought home my Pink Princess, it had this perfect half-moon leaf—deep green on one side, bright pink on the other. I was hooked. Then came winter. The next three leaves? Full green. I panicked, overcompensated with fertilizer, and made it worse. Here’s what I—and hundreds of other plant lovers—figured out the hard way.

• Light is everything. Bright, indirect light is the pink trigger. One user said, “Mine only throws pink leaves when I move it closer to my grow light.” Another added, “As soon as I pulled it away from the window, it went back to green.”
• Don’t skimp on humidity. A dry room equals stress, and stressed plants fade. I keep mine near a humidifier and mist it lightly in the morning. One commenter swears by clustering: “I grouped mine with a prayer plant and rubber plants, and the pink popped back.”
• Prune green growth fast. If your plant keeps sending out green-on-green leaves, it’s time to cut back. One Redditor said, “I chopped mine down to a pink node, and the next two leaves were insane.” Trust the process—but always use sterilized shears.
• Stick to a routine. Inconsistent care is a fast track to faded color. Don’t over-fertilize, don’t underwater. Another user summed it up perfectly: “Mine got pink again when I just left it alone, gave it better light, and stopped overthinking it.”
• Be patient. The pink doesn’t vanish forever, but it won’t rush back either. One grower shared: “I didn’t see pink for five months, then suddenly—bam—leaf with hot pink stripes like lightning bolts.”

Takeaway: Lost the pink? It’s not gone—it’s hiding. Better light, calm care, and a little bold pruning can bring the drama back. 

Styling Your Pink-Leafed Plant for Indoor Gardens

If there was ever a plant born for the spotlight, it’s this one. Pink Princess isn’t just another pretty leaf—it’s a full-blown statement piece. You don’t tuck her in a corner. You style her like the showstopper she is.

Want that pink to turn heads? Try this:

• Pick a pot with contrast. White, matte black, or soft blush ceramics let those pink edges shine. Terracotta? Not her vibe.
• Set the scene. The beautiful foliage plant pops against deep green, charcoal, or soft grey walls. Bonus if you’ve got millennial pink accents—it’s her tribe.
• Use mirrors and shelves. A mirror behind the adaptable plant doubles the drama. Higher shelves help those heart-shaped leaves trail just right.
• Group her with green friends. Think prayer plants or rubber plants—darker foliage gives her pink patterns a real punch.
• Add texture. Macramé hangers, woven stands, or a chunky moss pole bring in those “styled but lived-in” indoor garden feels.

Want an interior designer vibe without the budget? Just center a Pink Princess and let her do the work. 

Pink Princess vs. Pink Congo – What’s the Difference?

At first glance, they both have green and pink leaves, but only one earns it. Pink Princess is the real deal. The Congo? Kinda like a spray tan that looked great for two weeks and then ghosted.

Let’s break it down:

• Pink Princess: Deep green and pink marbled leaves, heart-shaped and glossy, with burgundy-red stems and natural variegation that sticks around when you give it bright, indirect light. You’ll wait for those pink streaks, but they’re legit.
• Pink Congo: Neon-pink leaves with no variegation, treated with hormones to get that color pop. It looks stunning at first, then, surprisingly, it reverts to full green, usually within months. One Redditor put it best: “Like buying a pink highlighter in a pot.”

So, if the pink disappears and doesn’t come back? Chances are, it was Congo. If it comes back stronger with better care? That’s your Pink Princess.

Common Problems With Pink Princess Plant

Even drama queens have off days. Here’s what to watch for.

Pink Leaves Turning Green

This is the number one complaint—and it’s usually light-related. If your Pink Princess is in a shady spot or tucked too far from a window, green takes over. Variegation needs energy, and without adequate light, the plant defaults to green for survival.

Move her to a spot with bright, indirect light. South- or east-facing windows (with sheer curtains) are your best friend. And if you’re in a dark apartment? It’s grow light time.

Leggy Growth or Stretched Stems

When your plant starts looking like a lanky teen trying to find the sun, that’s legginess. Long gaps between leaves are your plant’s way of saying, “I need more light.”

Try rotating the pot weekly and raising the beautiful pink-leaved plant closer to the light source. No need to sunbathe the philodendron—just get her within range of that glow.

Brown Edges or Crispy Tips

This one screams low humidity. Pink Princess is a tropical plant, and dry indoor air (especially in winter) pulls moisture straight from the leaves.

Try clustering with other plants, misting in the morning, or investing in a small humidifier. Bonus tip? Pebble trays work if you keep them topped off and close.

Yellowing Leaves or Mushy Stems

Classic signs of overwatering or compacted soil. This plant hates wet feet. If the top inch of soil stays soggy, the roots can’t breathe—and that’s when rot kicks in.

Repot in well-draining soil with chunky bits (perlite, bark) and make sure your pot has drainage. Let the soil dry out before watering again. Your plant will thank you.

Bare Lower Stems or Sparse Foliage

Older leaves naturally die off, but if the lower half of your plant is looking a little, well, naked? That’s often due to a lack of light, infrequent pruning, or inconsistent feeding.

Support it with a moss pole to encourage vertical growth, trim back leggy stems, and fertilize monthly during the growing season.

Takeaway: Not all plant drama is bad, but Pink Princess will spill her feelings if she’s stressed. Read the leaves, adjust the care, and she should grow right back. 

FAQ – Pink Princess Plant With Pink Leaves

Do pink plants need more light than green plants?

Yes—pink areas lack chlorophyll, so they rely on nearby green tissue. Without strong, indirect light, pink variegation will fade fast.

Why is my Pink Princess leaf turning brown and curling?

That’s often low humidity and overexposure to direct sunlight. Keep it away from heat vents and sunbeams, and aim for 60%  or more humidity.

What’s the best pot for a Pink Princess?

A breathable one. Use ceramic or terracotta pots with drainage. Plastic works, but make sure excess water can escape.

Can Pink Princess grow in low light?

Technically yes—but you’ll lose the pink. It becomes a green-leaf philodendron with slower growth and no variegation. Always go brighter.

Is the Pink Princess beginner-friendly?

It depends. It’s not hard to keep alive, but it’s harder to keep pink. It’s a great plant for beginners willing to learn and tweak its care.

Why the Pink Princess Is Still Worth It

Some plants are easy. Others are unforgettable. The Pink Princess is both—if you’re willing to meet her halfway. She taught me more about patience, light, and plant behavior than any pothos or snake plant ever did. She’s dramatic, yes. But the variations of pink are generous once you get her conditions right.

There were times I thought I’d lost her. The colorful leaves reverted. New growth stalled. But every time I adjusted her light, upped the humidity, or just stopped hovering, she bounced back—stronger, pinker, and more rewarding than before.

If you’ve been on the fence about adding one to your indoor garden, here’s my honest take: do it. But go in with your eyes open and your grow light plugged in.