El Philodendron erubescens, popularly known as the red philodendron or blushing philodendron, is one of the most captivating and versatile indoor plants you can incorporate into your home decor. It is distinguished by the generous size of its heart-shaped leaves and its striking reddish stems, which offer an attractive visual contrast to the green of its foliage. If you're looking for a species that brings elegance, energy, and an exotic air to any space, the philodendron erubescens is the perfect choice. Below, we offer a complete and updated guide to its characteristics, varieties and care so you can show it off in all its splendor.
Origin and natural habitat of Philodendron erubescens
El Philodendron erubescens is originally from the tropical rainforests of South America, especially in Colombia, where it grows wild in humid, warm environments. Its scientific name refers to the reddish color of its stems, since "erubescens" comes from Latin and means "reddened." In its natural environment, this plant grows primarily as a climbing epiphyte in the understory, climbing trees in search of light while benefiting from the high ambient humidity.
The fact that it originates from tropical regions gives it remarkable adaptability to different environments, allowing it to grow both indoors and outdoors if the right humidity and temperature conditions are met. Its hardiness and adaptability make it an ideal choice for those new to indoor plant care.
Main characteristics of the red Philodendron
- Common name: Red philodendron, blushing philodendron or red leaf philodendron.
- Scientific name: Philodendron erubescens.
- Family: Araceae.
- Origin: Tropical rainforests of South America, mainly Colombia.
The Philodendron erubescens is a climbing and perennial plant that stands out for its lush foliageIts leaves, of large size (they can reach up to 40cm length), are heart- or arrow-shaped and have a shiny texture that enhances their attractiveness. The color of the young leaves is reddish or coppery, acquiring shades dark green as they mature, the stems and petioles retain intense reddish tones. This chromatic contrast is one of their most appreciated characteristics in interior decoration.
Under optimal conditions, the plant can reach a height between 1,5 and 3 meters Indoors, especially if provided with a suitable climbing support. It also develops aerial roots that allow it to sustain itself and seek moisture and nutrients in the environment.
Another peculiarity of the philodendron erubescens is that, although its flowers do not usually appear frequently indoors, it can occasionally bloom, producing spadix-shaped inflorescences, surrounded by a pink or reddish spathe.
Popular varieties and cultivars of Philodendron erubescens
There are multiple cultivars and varieties derived from Philodendron erubescens, each with shades and shapes that expand the decorative possibilities:
- Philodendron 'Red Emerald': It stands out for its light green leaves with intense emerald red stems and petioles. Very striking.
- Philodendron 'Imperial Red': It has larger, more oval leaves with deep burgundy or reddish tones.
- Philodendron 'White Princess': It has variegated leaves with white spots, adding an elegant and different look.
- Philodendron 'Painted Lady': Mottled yellow and green leaves with reddish petioles. Highly prized by collectors.
- Philodendron 'Narrow': It has longer, lanceolate leaves, but maintains the characteristic reddish stem.
In all cases, basic care is similar, although variegated varieties usually require more indirect light to maintain their tones and patterns.
Cultivation and care of Philodendron erubescens
The red philodendron is an easily adaptable plant, but to achieve vigorous growth and large leaves, it is important to pay attention to the following aspects:
Luz
Lots of indirect lightPhilodendron erubescens needs plenty of light, but always filtered or indirect. It's best to place it near an east- or north-facing window, protected by translucent curtains. Avoid direct sun exposure, as it can cause leaf burn and loss of vigor. Although it tolerates lower light environments, its growth will be slower, and it may lose the color of its stems and the intensity of its foliage.
Temperature
Prefers a range of warm temperatures, between 18 and 28 ºC. Although it can tolerate slight drops, it should not be exposed to temperatures below 10 ºC for long periods of time. Some cultivars can even tolerate temperatures as low as 3-6 ºC occasionally, but growth is considerably slowed. It is important to avoid air currents and sudden changes in temperature.
Irrigation
El Watering should be moderate and adapted to the season:
- Spring and summer: Keep the substrate constantly moist (not soaked). Wait until the top layer begins to dry before watering again. It's preferable to water less, but more frequently.
- Autumn and winter: Space out waterings, allowing the soil to partially dry between each watering to prevent the risk of root rot.
Avoid leaving standing water at the base of the pot and make sure the pot has good drainage.
Humidity
As a tropical plant, Philodendron erubescens appreciates high ambient humidity (over 60%). If the environment is dry, place the pot on a tray of damp pebbles or use a cool-mist humidifier. Spraying the leaves with warm water helps keep them clean and dust-free, improving photosynthesis and preventing pests.
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To stimulate growth and color intensity, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer For leafy plants, apply fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during spring and summer. In winter, reduce the frequency to once a month or stop feeding. Always dilute the fertilizer in twice the recommended amount of water to avoid overfeeding.
Substrate and pot
Use a substrate light, rich in organic matter and with good drainageThe ideal mix is peat, perlite, and coconut fiber. The pot should have holes in the bottom and allow for the development of aerial roots. If you notice roots protruding through the holes or the plant appears "stuck," repot it to a 5 cm larger container.
Support and tutor
Philodendron erubescens, being a climber, requires a tutor with moss or trunk to grow vertically and achieve larger leaves. As it grows, gently tie its stems to the support and moisten this support with irrigation water to stimulate the rooting of the aerial roots.
Pruning and cleaning
Trim old or damaged leaves with clean scissors to encourage new growth. Wipe dust off the leaves with a cotton ball moistened with water so they can breathe and absorb light better.
Most common pests and diseases
Philodendron erubescens is resistant and not prone to pests, but adverse conditions can favor the appearance of:
- Mites and mealybugs: They appear in low humidity. They are eliminated by spraying potassium soap and neem oil every 20 days.
- Aphids: They occur in dry environments or during young shoots. Potassium soap or diluted diatomaceous earth is effective.
- Root rot: Typically caused by overwatering and poor drainage. To prevent this, always monitor substrate moisture and drainage quality.
- Yellow sheets: It usually indicates excess water or nutrient deficiency.
It is advisable to frequently check the underside of the leaves and clean the plant to avoid any outbreaks of pests.
Toxicity and precautions
Philodendron erubescens not suitable for pets, as all its parts contain calcium oxalate, a substance that is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested. It can cause oral irritation, salivation, and digestive discomfort. Keep the plant out of reach of pets and small children, and in case of accident, contact a veterinarian.
Propagation of Philodendron erubescens
You can easily propagate your red philodendron by taking stem cuttings. The best time to do this is in spring or summer, when the plant is actively growing. Cut a stem segment with at least one node and one leaf. Place the cutting in water or directly into a warm, moist potting medium, maintaining high humidity until it develops new roots and begins to sprout.
Rooting in water is especially effective if you keep the container in a bright, warm location. Change the water every 3-5 days to prevent bacterial growth. Once roots of at least 5 cm appear, transplant the cutting into a suitable substrate.
