Identifying the right variety of Philodendrons can be a difficult task for beginner plant collectors. Many of my friends and colleagues have regretted getting the wrong plant. some varieties of Philodendrons are so similar that it becomes tough to distinguish between them.
So, here I will talk about Philodendron Glorious and Gloriosum as they resemble similar features and thus are often mistaken for one another. Find out the similarities and differences between these gorgeous plants to choose and get the right one you want.
Philodendron Glorious vs. Gloriosum Key Differences
The most common differences shared here will help identify them individually.
Leaf Size and Shape
Shape
A Gloriosum is mostly round in shape, almost like a wide oval. It has plump and generous leaves. On the other hand, the leaves of Glorious are more elongated like a rounded rectangle. A Glorious has a more elegant look than Gloriosum.
Size
As we all know, a happy and healthy plant always produces large and fresh leaves, so both these varieties of Philodendron produce large leaves if they are healthy. However, the leaves of Glorious are more elongated than those of Gloriosum. The leaves of the Gloriosum are shorter and wider.
The size of the leaves produced by both these varieties of Philodendron depends on the overall health of the plant, the growing conditions, and the plant’s age.
Leaf Color and Pattern of the Veins
Color
A gloriosum has a more vibrant and lighter shade of green. However, Glorious is richer, deeper velvety green.
Veining
The veins of a Gloriosum are more prominent with a pale green or creamy white in color. Their veins are slightly raised and run in a beautiful symmetrical pattern like an artwork created by nature itself.
Different Growth Habits
Loves to Climb Upwards: Glorious
Glorious is a true climber who always seeks to climb upwards using its aerial roots. These aerial roots help the plant stay attached to surfaces such as trellises, walls, and moss poles.
A Glorious grows more upright and vertical due to its climbing habit. The plant will still grow upwards even if you do not provide it with any support. However, with a little support, the Glorious will be more happy to climb.
Loves to Creep: Gloriosum
A Philodendron Gloriosum is a perfect example of a creeper. They love to crawl and spread horizontally across the soil surface. It has a vine-like appearance as its stems grow along the ground, putting out roots at the nodes as it goes.
Placing them in a hanging basket or a long shallow pot enhances the beauty of your home. In its natural habitat, this creeper is found carpeting the forest floor.
Did You Know
The leaf shape of Philodendron Gloriosum can change significantly as the plant matures. Young plants often have more rounded leaves, while mature plants develop characteristic heart-shaped leaves that can reach impressive sizes.
The Shape of the Petiole
Rounded Petiole: Glorious
The petiole of a Philodendron Glorious is more rounded like a “U” shape or a half-circle. It is more symmetrical and smoother.
D-shaped Petiole: Gloriosum
The petiole shape of the Gloriosum forms a distinct “D” shape. It is rounded on one side and flat on the other. A slight ridge is noticed running along the flat side.
Family History of Glorious and Gloriosum
Before choosing your favorite variety from these two gorgeous Philodendrons, knowing more about their origin and parentage can help you identify them more specifically.
Philodendron Glorious
A Glorious is a hybrid, crafted blend of two amazing parent plants. It is not a naturally occurring species.
Philodendron Gloriosum
A gloriosum is an absolute naturally occurring species and not a hybrid product made by humans. This plant has a wild beauty and is shaped by nature itself. They are mostly found in the rainforests of South America and Colombia.
Comparison Between Glorious and Gloriosum
Here is a quick comparison between the two stunning plants.
| Difference | Glorious | Gloriosum |
|---|---|---|
| The shape of the leaf | Much more elongated, like a heart stretched out. | More rounded, heart-shaped. |
| Color of the leaf | Darker, rich green in color. | Lighter green with a silvery sheen. |
| Veins | Less visible veins. | Pale green or white, prominent veins. |
| The Shape of Petiole | It is a climber and needs support to grow upwards. | It is a creeper and crawls along the ground. |
| The Shape of the Petiole | the petioles are round in shape, like a regular stem. | Petioles are D-shaped. |
| Family History | Created through hybridization between a melanochrysum and Gloriosum. | An authentic naturally occurring species. |
Recap
While both Glorious and Gloriosum boast stunning foliage, the differences shared above can help you set them apart. So, check out this post thoroughly before going to buy one of your choices.
If you want to get a naturally occurring species, then go for a Philodendron Gloriosum. However, if the plant’s parentage does not bother you, a climber like Glorious can be the best option for you.
