The main difference between Philodendron Pink Princess and Pink Congo is in their foliage. Pink Princess has more unique and intense variegation, while Pink Congo has more consistent and subtle variegation.
Are you planning to add a beautiful and low-maintenance houseplant to your home decor? If yes, Philodendrons are the perfect choice for you.
Philodendrons are one of the most popular and easy-to-grow houseplants, and they come in various shapes, sizes, and colors.
Among the different Philodendron varieties, Pink Princess and Pink Congo are the two most sought-after plants due to their stunning pink foliage. However, many people get confused between these two varieties as they look similar at first glance.
In this article, we will discuss the difference between Philodendron Pink Princess and Pink Congo, their characteristics, care requirements, and other important factors that will help you decide which one is the perfect houseplant for you.
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Characteristics of Philodendron Pink Princess and Pink Congo
Before we dive into the differences, let’s first understand the characteristics of Philodendron Pink Princess and Pink Congo.
Philodendron Pink Princess
- Philodendron Pink Princess is a rare and exotic variety of Philodendron that originated in South America.
- The plant has beautiful heart-shaped leaves that are a combination of dark green and pink, making it a show-stopper in any room.
- The pink variegation on the leaves can vary in intensity and pattern, making each plant unique.
- The plant can grow up to 3-4 feet in height, and it prefers bright, indirect light and moist soil.
Pink Congo
- Pink Congo is a hybrid variety of Philodendron that was created by breeding Philodendron erubescens with Philodendron bipennifolium.
- The plant has large, elongated leaves that are a deep shade of green with pink streaks running through them.
- The pink variegation on the leaves is less intense than Pink Princess, and it follows a consistent pattern.
- The plant can grow up to 2-3 feet in height, and it prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Differences between Philodendron Pink Princess and Pink Congo
Now that we know the characteristics of both plants let’s discuss the differences between Philodendron Pink Princess and Pink Congo.
Foliage
The most significant difference between Philodendron Pink Princess and Pink Congo is their foliage.
- Philodendron Pink Princess has heart-shaped leaves that are predominantly dark green with pink variegation that can range from blotches to speckles.
- Pink Congo has large, elongated leaves that are primarily green with pink streaks running through them.
Growth Habit
Another difference between the two plants is their growth habit.
- Philodendron Pink Princess can grow up to 3-4 feet in height, and it has a bushy growth habit.
- Pink Congo, on the other hand, can grow up to 2-3 feet in height, and it has a more upright growth habit.
Variegation
While both plants have pink variegation on their leaves, the intensity and pattern of variegation differ.
- Philodendron Pink Princess has more intense and random variegation that makes each plant unique.
- Pink Congo has less intense variegation that follows a consistent pattern.
Price
The price of Philodendron Pink Princess and Pink Congo also varies based on their rarity and demand.
- Philodendron Pink Princess is more expensive than Pink Congo as it is a rare and exotic variety. The price of a small Pink Princess plant can range from $50 to $100 or more, depending on its size and variegation.
- Pink Congo is a more affordable option as it is a hybrid variety and easier to find. The price of a small Pink Congo plant can range from $15 to $30, depending on its size and health.
Care Requirements for Philodendron Pink Princess and Pink Congo
Both Philodendron Pink Princess and Pink Congo are low-maintenance plants, making them perfect for beginners and busy people. Here are some care requirements that you need to keep in mind to ensure their healthy growth:
Light
- Philodendron Pink Princess and Pink Congo prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, and too little light can affect their growth and variegation.
- You can place them near a north or east-facing window or in a room with bright, filtered light.
Water
- Philodendron Pink Princess and Pink Congo prefer moist soil but are susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
- Water them when the top inch of soil feels dry to touch. Make sure to drain the excess water from the pot to prevent waterlogging.
Humidity
- Philodendron Pink Princess and Pink Congo prefer high humidity levels of around 60-80%.
- You can mist their leaves regularly or place a humidifier near them to maintain the humidity levels.
Soil
- Philodendron Pink Princess and Pink Congo prefer well-draining soil that retains moisture.
- You can use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite to create a suitable soil mix.
Temperature
- Philodendron Pink Princess and Pink Congo prefer warm temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C).
- Keep them away from cold drafts, air conditioning, and heating vents.
Conclusion
Philodendron Pink Princess and Pink Congo are two beautiful and low-maintenance houseplants that can add a pop of pink to your home decor. While both plants have similar care requirements, their foliage, growth habits, and prices differ.
If you want a rare and exotic plant with unique and intense variegation, Philodendron Pink Princess is the perfect choice for you.
However, if you want an affordable and easy-to-find plant with consistent variegation, Pink Congo is the way to go.
