Imperial Gold Philodendron

Imperial Gold Philodendron (Philodendron 'Imperial Gold') is an ornamental philodendron that grows 1 to 2m tall and about 1m wide, usually staying compact. Its big glossy leaves open deep copper and slowly mature to gold, so a single plant carries two colours at once. It is a bold choice for shaded tropical borders and large indoor pots.

Why you'll love it

• Copper turning to gold. New leaves open deep copper and age to gold, so the colour shifts as the plant grows.
• Big, glossy leaves. The large leaves give a lush effect from a single plant.
• Usually compact. It tends to stay tidy, a good size for underplanting and containers.
• Border or pot. It suits a border in a tropical style garden, shaded underplanting and pots indoors.
• A regular feeding routine. A slow release feed in spring and a half strength liquid feed in the warm months keep the foliage rich.

Where it works best

Tropical style borders. Use it as a border plant in a frost free garden, spaced 1m apart, where the gold leaves stand out against darker greens.

Shaded underplanting. It fits beneath taller plants where the light is filtered, but keep it out of hot, direct sun, which can burn the leaves.

Indoor pots. A large pot in a bright, warm room shows off the changing colour. Keep it away from children and pets, because the leaves are poisonous.

Growing Imperial Gold Philodendron in Australia

Position and climate. It needs a warm, frost free position, and direct hot sun should be avoided. Bright, filtered light is ideal. Plant it away from places where children and pets play, because the leaves contain a poisonous substance, and avoid contact with the skin.

Soil. Free draining soil rich in organic matter, in a pot or in the garden. Mulch garden plants to hold moisture and keep the roots cool.

Water and feed. Mulch and water regularly until established, usually around 12 weeks, and keep it moist through dry periods. Mist in dry air. Feed with a slow release fertiliser in spring and a liquid feed every 2 to 4 weeks in the warmer months, diluted to half the recommended dose to avoid burn.

Pruning. No regular pruning is needed. Wipe dusty indoor leaves gently with a damp cloth to bring back the glossy finish, and repot container plants at the beginning of spring.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Imperial Gold Philodendron as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. The tube is a small starter, and the glossy leaf colour deepens as the plant matures. Pot it into fresh mix soon after it arrives, or plant it out in a warm, sheltered spot, and keep it moist.

The tube comes from our grower, so it is not always in stock. A sold out tube simply means none is available today, and the notify button on the page emails you the day it is back.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse the philodendron range
• Philodendron care guide
• Plants for tropical climates
• More plants for pots

Common questions

Will it really turn gold?

The leaves open deep copper and gradually mature to gold. Bright, filtered light brings out the colour, while hot direct sun can scorch them.

How big does it get?

It grows 1 to 2m tall and about 1m wide, and usually stays compact. It is a good size for underplanting and containers.

Is it toxic?

Yes. The leaves contain a poisonous substance, so keep it away from places where children and pets play, and avoid contact with the skin.