Philodendron 'Rojo Congo' is a striking hybrid known for its deep, reddish-orange young leaves that gradually mature into rich, glossy green foliage. The leaves are large, leathery, and lance-shaped, adding a bold, tropical look to any indoor space. This plant has a bushy, upright growth habit and can grow quite large when given the proper care, making it a fantastic choice for adding a statement plant to your home or office. It's a popular choice for those who appreciate a low-maintenance, yet visually stunning plant.
Philodendron hybrid 'Rojo Congo'
$3.50Price
Light:
- Prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its vibrant color and encourage healthy growth.
- While it can tolerate lower light conditions, the plant’s growth may slow, and the color intensity of the leaves may diminish.
- Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause the leaves to burn or become faded.
Watering:
- Keep the soil moderately moist but not soggy.
- Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Make sure the pot has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
- In winter, reduce watering frequency as the plant's growth slows.
Humidity:
- Prefers moderate to high humidity (50–60% or higher).
- Mist the plant occasionally or use a humidifier in dry environments to increase humidity. Grouping plants together can also help raise the ambient humidity.
Temperature:
- Ideal temperature range: 65–80°F (18–27°C).
- Avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as the plant is sensitive to cold and can suffer damage in lower temperatures.
Soil:
- Use a well-draining, lightweight potting mix. A peat-based mix with added perlite and orchid bark works well to ensure adequate drainage.
- Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.
Fertilizer:
- Feed with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring through summer).
- In the fall and winter, reduce fertilization as the plant's growth slows down.
Pruning:
- Prune dead or damaged leaves to maintain a tidy appearance.
- You can also trim back any long stems to encourage bushier growth. The plant’s compact, bushy form makes it an excellent choice for creating a fuller, more lush look.
Repotting:
- Repot every 1–2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound.
- Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one to provide room for growth. Refresh the soil with a well-draining mix to support the plant’s health.
Pests:
- Watch out for pests like mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Inspect the leaves, especially the undersides, for signs of infestation.
- Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if pests are detected.
Toxicity:
- Toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling. Keep out of reach of children and pets.