A philodendron is a type of tropical plant with large, glossy leaves that many people grow indoors as houseplants. The name comes from Greek words meaning “love” and “tree,” because in their natural rainforest habitat, many philodendrons are climbing vines that wrap around trees as they grow toward the sunlight.

Philodendrons are popular houseplants because they're relatively easy to care for and can tolerate the lower light levels inside homes and classrooms. Their leaves come in many shapes: some are heart-shaped, others have deep splits and holes, and some grow so large they're sometimes called “elephant ears.” Many philodendrons will climb up a moss pole if you give them one, just like they climb trees in nature.

You might have seen a philodendron on a bookshelf in your classroom or trailing down from a hanging basket in someone's home. These plants originally come from the rainforests of Central and South America, where they grow in the shade of taller trees. Because they evolved in humid, shady forests, they adapt well to living indoors, making them one of the most common houseplants around the world.