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

Yellow Sunrise is a new variety of a vertical-growing pothos species (Epipremnum pinnatum) with tapered leaves, bright yellow marbling, and fenestrations or cuts of the kind seen on split leaf philodendron (Monstera deliciosa). —Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 6 Feb. 2026

Creating a winter plant corner isn’t just about finding a place for your snake plants and philodendrons and overwintering your garden plants indoors. —Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Jan. 2026

Hether recommends low-maintenance philodendrons or fine leaf ferns, a recent favorite addition to her bathroom. —Kristin Hohenadel, The Spruce, 12 Jan. 2026

Meanwhile, the almost-impossible-to-kill philodendrons that had always flourished in that location slowly died. —Inga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Oct. 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

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