Philodendron 'Birkin'

Birkin sported from 'Congo Rojo' as a pinstripe variegation: sharp, fine white lines running parallel along the length of a dark green leaf, growing denser and more pronounced as each leaf matures. Unlike splashy or sectoral variegation types, Birkin's patterning is consistent leaf to leaf, which combined with its compact self-heading habit and ease of care has made it one of the more accessible variegated Philodendron for newer collectors. Some plants will occasionally throw an all-white or reverted all-green leaf, which is normal chimeric behaviour rather than a sign of a problem.

Native range

Variegated sport mutation of Philodendron 'Congo Rojo'.

Classification

Genus

Philodendron

Family

Araceae

Type

Variegated

Growth habit

Upright self-heading rosette

Form of

Philodendron 'Congo Rojo'

Morphology

Leaf shape

Broadly ovateEgg-shaped leaves, with the wider end near the base.-cordateHeart-shaped foliage, featuring a rounded notch (sinus) where the leaf stem attaches.

Leaf length

15-25 cm

Leaf width

10-18 cm

Petiole colour

Green

Venation

PinnateVeins or lobes arranged like a feather, branching out symmetrically on both sides of a single main central vein., understated

Texture

Glossy, leathery

Variegation

ChimericVariegation caused by a cell mutation. Often produces high contrast but can be unstable and revert to all-green. (unstableVariegation that is prone to disappearing (reverting to solid green) if lighting conditions are poor or if not pruned.) fine white pinstripes running parallel to the lateral veins across the leaf blade, density increasing with leaf maturity; occasional all-white or reverted all-green leaves are normal

Growth habit

Upright self-heading rosette