Philodendron 'Black Cardinal'
Best low-maintenance statement piece for busy indoor plant beginners.
The Philodendron 'Black Cardinal' from South America is a striking houseplant known for its rich, dark green and reddish leaves with a smooth, matte finish. Its thick, flexible foliage makes it a hardy and exceptionally easy-to-care-for plant, perfect for indoor environments. This established plant thrives with bright indirect light and requires watering only when the top inch of soil feels dry, making it a low-maintenance addition to any home.
$23.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
141
/ 9316
#141 in Potted Houseplants
Price vs Category Average
-54%
Below average
Scientific Name
Philodendron erubescens 'Black Cardinal'
/ Philodendron erubescens 'Black Cardinal'
Who it's for
- Interior designers seeking dramatic, high-contrast botanical accents
- Busy beginners needing an adaptable, low-maintenance plant
- Small-space dwellers preferring tidy, upright growth habits
Who should skip it
- Pet owners and parents of curious toddlers
- Gardeners lacking access to bright, indirect light sources
- Plant collectors unable to monitor for common indoor pests
Performance breakdown
Maintenance Effort
Forgiving nature makes this an ideal choice for busy plant owners.
Visual Impact
Deep, matte foliage provides a sophisticated contrast to standard green houseplants.
Growth Rate
Establishes itself quickly, rewarding owners with consistent new leaf production.
Indoor Adaptability
Thrives in typical home environments without needing specialized humidity setups.
Structural Integrity
Thick, flexible leaves resist damage and maintain an upright, tidy habit.
Display Readiness
Arrives fully potted and ready to style immediately upon unboxing.
Key Specs
Scientific Name
Philodendron erubescens 'Black Cardinal'
Cultivar
'Black Cardinal'
Pot Diameter
4 inches
Care Difficulty
Easy
Plant Type
Flowering Plant
Pot Included
Yes
Soil Included
Yes
USDA Hardiness Zone
Indoor only
Features
- Striking dark green and reddish foliage
- Hardy and flexible leaf structure
- Very easy care difficulty
- Smooth, matte leaf finish
- Arrives potted and ready to display
- Ideal for indoor environments
- Fast-growing plant
- Upright growth habit
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly adore the Philodendron 'Black Cardinal' for its striking aesthetic, particularly the deep, near black burgundy leaf coloration. A major highlight is the exceptional shipping care; packaging is consistently described as robust, ensuring plants arrive healthy and intact. Reviewers frequently note the specimens are larger and more vigorous than expected, providing immediate visual appeal. The plant's ease of growth in new settings further enhances its perceived value for both new and experienced owners. While minor initial leaf variation occurs, overall satisfaction remains extremely high due to the unique beauty and the shop's reliable delivery of quality, established plants.
Know before you buy
This plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Placing it near an east-facing window or a few feet away from a south-facing window will help maintain its deep, dark foliage color.
Check the soil moisture by inserting your finger about an inch deep. If the soil feels dry to the touch, it is time to water; if it is still damp, wait a few more days to avoid overwatering.
While it prefers medium humidity, it is quite adaptable to standard indoor conditions. If your home is particularly dry, you can mist the leaves occasionally or place it near other plants to create a more humid microclimate.
The 'Black Cardinal' is considered a fast-growing variety. With proper light and consistent care, you can expect to see new leaves unfurl regularly throughout the spring and summer months.
The plant arrives in a 4-inch pot with soil, so it is ready to display immediately. You do not need to repot it right away; it will be happy in its current container until it outgrows it.
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Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$24