Philodendron Burle Marx Care: The Easy Tropical Statement Plant

Philodendron Burle Marx is one of the best philodendrons for beginners. It has long, glossy leaves with a rippled texture that gives it a tropical, architectural look. It grows fast, tolerates lower light, and does not demand high humidity like some of its fussier relatives.

Named after Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, this plant brings bold, lush vibes without the drama.

Quick Care Summary

  • Light: Bright, indirect light (tolerates medium light)
  • Water: When top 2 inches of soil are dry
  • Humidity: Normal household humidity is fine
  • Growth habit: Clumping (non-climbing)
  • Biggest mistake: Overwatering

Light

Burle Marx does best in bright, indirect light but tolerates medium light better than most philodendrons.

Best light:

  • East-facing window
  • A few feet back from a south or west window
  • North-facing window works but growth will be slower

Signs of too little light:

  • Leggy growth
  • Smaller leaves
  • Slower growth

Signs of too much light:

  • Faded, washed-out leaves
  • Brown tips

Watering

Water when the top 2 inches of soil are dry. Burle Marx likes consistent moisture but hates soggy soil.

How to water:

  1. Stick your finger into the soil
  2. If the top 2 inches are dry, water thoroughly until it drains
  3. Empty the saucer

Typical schedule:

  • Spring and summer: Every 5 to 7 days
  • Fall and winter: Every 10 to 14 days

Soil and Pot

Use well-draining soil.

Best soil:

  • Standard potting mix with added perlite (2:1 ratio)
  • Or aroid mix (potting soil, orchid bark, perlite)

Pot requirements:

  • Must have drainage holes
  • Terracotta or plastic both work

Temperature and Humidity

Burle Marx is not fussy.

  • Temperature: 60 to 85 F
  • Humidity: Normal household humidity (40 to 60 percent) is fine

Higher humidity encourages faster growth and larger leaves, but it is not required.

Fertilizer

Feed during the growing season.

  • Fertilize every 4 weeks in spring and summer
  • Use balanced liquid fertilizer (diluted to half strength)
  • Skip fertilizing in fall and winter

Pruning

Burle Marx grows fast and can get bushy. Prune to control size or encourage fuller growth.

How to prune:

  1. Cut back leggy stems near the base
  2. Remove yellowing or damaged leaves
  3. Use clean, sharp scissors

You can propagate the cuttings you remove.

Propagating Philodendron Burle Marx

Burle Marx propagates easily from stem cuttings.

How to propagate:

  1. Cut a stem with at least 2 to 3 leaves and a node
  2. Place in water or moist soil
  3. Keep in bright, indirect light
  4. Roots develop in 2 to 4 weeks

This plant also produces pups (baby plants) from the base, which you can separate and repot.

Common Problems

Yellow leaves

Overwatering or natural aging. Check soil moisture and drainage.

Brown tips

Underwatering or low humidity. Water more consistently.

Leggy growth

Not enough light. Move to a brighter spot.

Pests

Burle Marx is relatively pest-resistant but can attract spider mites or thrips. Wipe leaves regularly and inspect for pests.

Burle Marx vs. Burle Marx Fantasy

There are two popular varieties:

Philodendron Burle Marx: Solid green leaves with a rippled texture.

Philodendron Burle Marx Fantasy (Variegated): Green leaves with white or cream variegation. Rarer and more expensive. Needs brighter light to maintain variegation.

Both have the same care requirements.

Why Burle Marx Is Perfect for Beginners

  • Tolerates lower light
  • Forgiving if you miss a watering
  • Grows fast
  • Non-climbing (does not need a pole)
  • Pest-resistant
  • Easy to propagate

If you want a tropical-looking plant without the fuss, Burle Marx is it.

What To Do Next

  • If you love Burle Marx, try the variegated version (Burle Marx Fantasy)
  • If you want another easy philodendron, try Philodendron Brasil or heartleaf philodendron
  • If your plant is getting too big, prune it back and propagate the cuttings
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