As a plant lover, I’ve found that Red Philodendrons have quickly become one of my favorite houseplants. Their deep, rich red leaves and dramatic foliage make them stand out in any space. But what truly makes them special is their easy care and ability to thrive with just a bit of attention. If you’re considering adding a Red Philodendron to your collection or you’re already a proud owner, here are some essential care tips that will help your plant flourish and look stunning year-round.
What Makes the Red Philodendron Special?
The Red Philodendron, also known as Philodendron erubescens, is a stunning tropical plant that’s known for its dark red to purple leaves, which gradually become a lush green as they mature. Its unique color and striking appearance are what drew me to this plant in the first place. The heart-shaped leaves add a touch of elegance and create a dramatic, yet calming atmosphere in my home.
Beyond its beauty, the Red Philodendron is also a low-maintenance plant that’s perfect for both beginner and experienced plant owners. It thrives indoors, making it ideal for apartments, offices, or anywhere that gets a decent amount of indirect sunlight.
Care Tips for Your Red Philodendron: How I Keep Mine Thriving
Taking care of my Red Philodendron has been a relatively easy and rewarding experience. Here are the essential care tips that have helped me keep my plant healthy and looking its best:
1. Light: Bright, Indirect Light Is Key
One of the most important things I’ve learned about the Red Philodendron is that it thrives in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves, leaving them with unsightly brown patches. On the flip side, too little light can result in leggy growth and slower development.
I keep my Red Philodendron in a well-lit room with indirect light, near a window with sheer curtains that filter the sunlight. If you notice your plant’s leaves are turning yellow or not growing as vigorously, it might need a brighter location.
Why I Recommend This:
- Bright, indirect light helps maintain vibrant foliage
- Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves
- Indirect light ensures healthy growth
2. Watering: Keep It Moist, Not Soaked
I’ve found that overwatering is one of the most common mistakes when caring for a Red Philodendron. This plant prefers its soil to be kept moist, but not soaked. When I water my plant, I make sure the top inch of soil feels slightly dry before adding water. I also make sure that the pot has good drainage to avoid water collecting at the bottom, which could lead to root rot.
In the warmer months, I water my Red Philodendron more frequently—about once a week—but in the winter, when the plant’s growth slows down, I water it less often. I always check the soil before watering to ensure I’m not overdoing it.
Why I Recommend This:
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
- Water when the top inch of soil is dry
- Ensure proper drainage to prevent water buildup
3. Humidity: Embrace the Tropical Environment
As a tropical plant, the Red Philodendron thrives in high humidity. I’ve found that it does best in humidity levels of 60% or higher, especially during the winter when indoor air tends to dry out. To boost humidity, I sometimes place my plant on a humidifying tray filled with water and pebbles, or I regularly mist the leaves to provide extra moisture.
If you live in a dry climate or your indoor air tends to be dry, a humidifier can also help keep your plant comfortable. The extra humidity encourages lush, vibrant growth and helps prevent the leaves from drying out or turning crispy.
Why I Recommend This:
- Keep your plant in a humid environment
- Mist the leaves or use a humidifier during dry months
- Reduces risk of crispy leaves due to dryness
4. Temperature: Keep It Warm and Cozy
The Red Philodendron prefers warm temperatures and should be kept in a range of 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It’s not a fan of cold drafts, so I make sure to place mine in a spot that’s protected from air conditioning or heaters. A consistent temperature helps my plant grow faster and maintain its beautiful, vibrant colors.
If temperatures drop too low, the plant may become stressed and stop growing, or its leaves may start to turn yellow. Keeping the plant in a steady, warm environment is crucial for its overall well-being.
Why I Recommend This:
- Keep in a warm spot, away from drafts
- Ideal temperature range: 65°F to 80°F
- Helps maintain healthy, vibrant growth
5. Fertilizing: Feed Lightly During Growing Season
The Red Philodendron is not a heavy feeder, but it does benefit from regular feeding during the growing season. I use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength and apply it about once a month during the spring and summer. In the winter months, when the plant’s growth slows down, I cut back on fertilizing.
It’s important not to over-fertilize, as this can cause the plant to grow too quickly and lead to weaker stems and leaves. A light feeding every few weeks is all it needs to stay healthy.
Why I Recommend This:
- Fertilize lightly during spring and summer
- Use a balanced fertilizer
- Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent weak growth
6. Pruning: Keep It Neat and Manageable
Although the Red Philodendron is a relatively slow grower, it can still benefit from occasional pruning to keep it neat and encourage bushier growth. I’ve found that removing any dead or yellowing leaves helps the plant stay healthy and prevents disease from spreading. Pruning also allows the plant to focus energy on producing fresh, vibrant leaves rather than sustaining older, unhealthy ones.
I like to prune my Red Philodendron once or twice a year, cutting back any long, leggy stems to help shape it and keep it looking compact.
Why I Recommend This:
- Prune dead or yellowing leaves regularly
- Helps the plant grow bushier
- Keeps the plant neat and manageable
Common Issues with the Red Philodendron and How to Fix Them
Even though the Red Philodendron is easy to care for, there are a few common issues that can pop up. Here are some problems I’ve encountered and how I address them:
Yellow Leaves
This is usually a sign of overwatering or insufficient light. I check the soil moisture and ensure the plant is getting enough indirect light.
Leggy Growth
If the plant becomes leggy and spindly, it’s likely not getting enough light. I move the plant to a brighter spot and prune the leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
Brown, Crispy Edges
This can happen due to low humidity. To fix this, I mist the leaves or place the plant on a humidity tray to boost moisture around it.
Conclusion: Embrace the Beauty of the Red Philodendron
If you’re looking for a stunning and easy-to-care-for houseplant, the Red Philodendron is a perfect choice. With its striking foliage, low-maintenance care requirements, and ability to thrive in a variety of indoor environments, it’s no wonder that this plant has become a favorite in my home. By following these care tips, you can enjoy the beauty of a thriving Red Philodendron in your own space for years to come.