philodendron

noun

phil·​o·​den·​dron ˌfi-lə-ˈden-drən 

plural philodendrons also philodendra ˌfi-lə-ˈden-drə 

: any of various aroid plants (as of the genus Philodendron) that are cultivated for their showy foliage

Illustration of philodendron

Examples of philodendron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Try these houseplants: monstera, peace lily, philodendron, pothos, snake plant, ZZ plant. —Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Feb. 2025

Split leaf philodendron doesn’t climb like a monstera, and is faster growing, too. —Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Jan. 2025

Fast-growing varieties, like ‘Heart-leaf’ and ‘Velvet-leaf’ philodendrons, are top picks for winter propagation. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Jan. 2025

Tropical plants, such as philodendron or pothos, grow quickly, and will require more room for their roots to grow, as well as frequent watering. —Maya Chawla, Architectural Digest, 2 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek, neuter of philodendros loving trees, from phil- + dendron tree — more at dendr-

First Known Use

1877, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing philodendron

• cutleaf philodendron
• split leaf philodendron

Kids Definition

philodendron

noun

philo·​den·​dron

ˌfil-ə-ˈden-drən

plural philodendrons also philodendra

-drə

: any of several plants of the arum family that are often grown for their showy usually shiny leaves