The Philodendron ‘Bloody Mary’ is a vibrant houseplant known for its distinct appearance. Its foliage transitions from deep green to striking reddish or bronze hues, especially on new growth. This unique coloration, along with its long leaves and burgundy stems, makes it a captivating addition to any indoor plant collection.
Essential Care for Philodendron Bloody Mary
Light Requirements
Philodendron ‘Bloody Mary’ thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, similar to its natural dappled rainforest habitat. An east-facing window provides beneficial gentle morning sun. Too much direct sun can scorch or bleach leaves, while insufficient light may result in leggy growth. Rotate the plant periodically to ensure even growth.
Watering Practices
Keep the soil consistently moist, but never waterlogged, to prevent root rot. Allow the top one to two inches of soil to dry out before watering again. Water more frequently during warmer growing seasons, and reduce watering significantly in winter. Ensure excess water drains completely from the pot.
Optimal Soil Mix
A well-draining, aerated soil mix supports healthy root development. Use a mix rich in organic matter, such as peat moss, coco coir, or shredded leaves. Incorporating amendments like perlite or orchid bark improves drainage and aeration. The ideal soil pH for philodendrons ranges between 5.0 and 7.5.
Humidity and Temperature Needs
Philodendron ‘Bloody Mary’ prefers average to high humidity, reflecting its tropical origin. While it tolerates typical household humidity, higher levels encourage larger, healthier leaves. Increase humidity using a pebble tray, grouping plants, or a humidifier. The plant thrives in room temperatures between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (16 to 24 degrees Celsius). Temperatures below 55 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celsius) impact its growth.
Fertilizing Your Plant
Philodendron ‘Bloody Mary’ is a moderate to heavy feeder during its active growing season. In spring and summer, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every two to four weeks. Consistent fertilization supports growth and encourages vibrant foliage. During dormant winter months, reduce or cease fertilization.
Repotting Your Philodendron Bloody Mary
Repot when the Philodendron ‘Bloody Mary’ outgrows its container, indicated by roots emerging from drainage holes or stunted growth. The best time is spring or early summer, before peak growing season, to minimize stress. Select a new pot one to two inches larger in diameter with drainage holes.
To repot, water the plant thoroughly a day prior. Gently remove it from its old pot, loosen circling roots, and remove excess soil, inspecting for rot. Place the plant in the new pot at the same depth, filling with fresh, well-draining potting mix. After repotting, water thoroughly and keep it in its usual light and temperature conditions.
Propagating Philodendron Bloody Mary
Propagate Philodendron ‘Bloody Mary’ using stem cuttings during spring or summer. Choose a healthy stem section five to seven inches long with at least two to three leaves and a node. A node is a small brown nub where roots emerge. Remove any leaves that would be submerged in water or soil to prevent rot.
Cuttings can be rooted in water, soil, or sphagnum moss. For water propagation, place the cutting in a glass of water, ensuring the node is submerged, and change the water every few days. Roots appear within two to three weeks. Once roots are one to two inches long, transplant the cutting into a well-draining soil mix.
Addressing Common Plant Problems
Several issues can affect the health of your Philodendron ‘Bloody Mary’. Yellowing leaves signal either overwatering or underwatering; older leaves yellow from underwatering, while yellowing lower leaves indicate overwatering. Brown leaf tips or edges point to low humidity or inconsistent watering.
Leggy growth, characterized by stretched stems and small leaves, indicates insufficient light. Pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids can infest the plant. Inspect the undersides of leaves regularly and treat infestations by wiping insects away or using an appropriate organic insecticide. Root rot results from consistently soggy soil and causes mushy, yellowing leaves.
Important Safety Considerations
Philodendron ‘Bloody Mary’ contains calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals can cause irritation to the mouth, throat, and digestive tract if ingested. Symptoms in humans or pets include oral irritation, swelling, and difficulty swallowing. Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets.