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

Choose the Right Potting Mix A high-quality potting mix labeled for houseplants works well for most tropical plants, including pothos, philodendrons, and rubber plants. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Apr. 2026

That means your pothos, everyday philodendrons, ZZ plants, rubber trees, and many other popular, unfussy houseplants are just fine getting a drink from your bathroom or kitchen faucet. —Alexandra Jones, The Spruce, 18 Feb. 2026

Some others that would be affected include dwarf schefflera, dracaenas, begonias, ficus, philodendrons, aglaonemas and peace lilies. —Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 14 Feb. 2026

Look for a philodendron, palms, or a fiddle leaf fig plant. —Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 11 Feb. 2026

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

• cut-leaf philodendron
• split-leaf philodendron

Rhymes for philodendron

• rhododendron
• endrin

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