Birkin Philodendron (Philodendron 'Birkin')

Birkin Philodendron Plant Features

Birkin philodendron is a relatively new -- and especially trendy -- philodendron variety that boasts large, dark green leaves liberally streaked in creamy white. Each leaf is different so you can enjoy an ever-changing display throughout the year.

A slow-growing houseplant, it makes for an excellent addition to your favorite desk or tabletop when young. As it matures, it can reach 3 feet tall and wide or so as a houseplant. Believed to be a sport of Red Congo, Birkin is a self-heading philodendron (meaning it does not climb and is self supporting). You sometimes see Birkin produce leaves with red patches, or leaves that are entirely reddish-green. 

Buy Birkin Philodendron
Look for Costa Farms' Birkin philodendron in the Trending Tropicals® collection at your favorite retailer. See a list of our in-store and online retailer partners.

Birkin Philodendron Growing Instructions

Light
Birkin philodendron grows best in medium to bright indirect light. Not sure what that means? In a medium light spot, the plant will cast a soft or light shadow throughout the day. In bright light, the plant will have a strong shadow. Don't have a spot with natural light? No worries! Birkin philodendron thrives under both fluorescent or LED lights, as well as the sun.

Water
Like many other aroids (plants in the philodendron family), this Birkin sensitive to overwatering. Be sure to let the top several inches of the potting mix dry before you water it again. This houseplant holds up reasonably well to drought, but looks and grows best if the potting mix isn't allowed to dry out.

Humidity
Birkin philodendron likes average to above-average relative humidity levels. If your environment has particularly dry air, boost humidity by grouping your philodendron with other houseplants. Or place a small humidifier nearby. Or alternatively, grow it over a large pebble tray.

Fertilizing
Fertilize Birkin philodendron in spring and summer, if you wish. Use a fertilizer formulated for use on houseplants. Follow the directions on the product packaging and avoid using more than the instructions recommend. Too much fertilizer can cause root damage.

Pruning
Pruning Birkin philodendron is not necessary except to remove any old or damaged leaves.

Note: This is an ornamental plant and not intended for human or animal consumption. Keep philodendrons out of reach of children or pets that may chew or nibble.

  • Water

    Medium water needs

  • Light

    Indoors: High light

    Indoors: Medium light

  • Colors

    Variegated

  • Special Features

    Purifies the air

    Super-easy to grow

Complement your Birkin Philodendron

Raven® ZZ Plant
Contrast Birkin's brightly variegated leaves with the purple-black color of Raven® ZZ (another ultra-trendy variety).

Nanouk Tradescantia
Enjoy a stripes-on-stripes look by pairing your Birkin philodendron with creamy-pink Nanouk Tradescantia.

Golden Goddess Philodendron
Enjoy a couple of gorgeous philodendrons by accenting Birkin's variegated foliage with the electric color of Golden Goddess.