The Philodendron el Choco Red is a highly coveted aroid, celebrated by plant enthusiasts for its distinct appearance. This plant showcases velvety, dark green leaves on its upper surface, which are beautifully contrasted by striking reddish-brown undersides when young. As the foliage matures, the vibrant red hues gradually deepen and transition to a more subdued, darker green, maintaining a unique charm. This combination of textures and evolving colors makes it a captivating addition to any indoor plant collection.
Essential Growing Conditions
Light
The Philodendron el Choco Red thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural rainforest habitat. Place it near an east-facing window or where it receives filtered sunlight, such as through a sheer curtain. Direct sun, especially harsh afternoon sun, can scorch and damage delicate foliage. Insufficient light leads to leggy growth, smaller leaves, and dulling of the distinctive red undersides. If natural light is limited, particularly in winter, supplemental grow lights can maintain its vigor and color.
Watering
Proper watering prevents issues like root rot, to which Philodendron el Choco Red is susceptible. The soil should dry out partially between waterings, typically when the top two to three inches feel dry. Check soil moisture with a finger or moisture meter. Water thoroughly until it drains from the pot bottom, ensuring the entire root ball is moistened. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this quickly leads to root rot; good drainage is vital. Underwatering, though less common, causes wilting and stunted growth.
Humidity and Temperature
High humidity is important for the Philodendron el Choco Red, as it originates from Colombia’s humid Chocó region. Maintain humidity at 60% or higher for optimal growth and to prevent leaf issues. Increase ambient humidity using a humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray, or grouping it with other plants to create a localized humid microclimate.
Consistent warm temperatures are also important. The ideal range is 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Cold drafts or sudden temperature fluctuations stress the plant, leading to stunted growth or leaf damage. Avoid placing the plant near air conditioning vents, heating units, or drafty windows.
Soil and Nutrients
The Philodendron el Choco Red thrives in an airy, well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. A suitable substrate mimics its epiphytic nature, allowing for moisture retention and aeration. A common mix includes potting soil, orchid bark, perlite, and sometimes charcoal, often in roughly equal parts, to ensure excellent drainage and prevent compaction. An ideal soil pH is between 5.1 and 6.0.
During the active growing season (spring and summer), the plant benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks, often at half strength, to support healthy growth. Reduce or pause fertilization during fall and winter when growth naturally slows. Over-fertilizing can lead to nutrient burn and leaf discoloration, so a less-is-more approach is recommended.
Repotting Your Plant
Repotting ensures the continued health and growth of your Philodendron el Choco Red. Signs your plant may need repotting include roots emerging from drainage holes, slowed growth, or compacted potting mix. Repotting is recommended every one to two years, or when the plant becomes root-bound.
When repotting, select a new pot only slightly larger, typically one size up, to provide adequate space for root expansion without overwhelming the plant. Ensure the new pot has sufficient drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Gently remove the plant from its current container, carefully loosen any circling roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh, appropriate potting mix. After repotting, water thoroughly and keep it in a stable environment away from direct sunlight for a few days to help it adjust.
Propagating Your Plant
Propagating Philodendron el Choco Red is an effective way to create new plants, with stem cuttings being the most common method. To take a cutting, select a healthy stem section with at least one node, as roots and new growth emerge from these points. A cutting should be 3-4 inches long with a few leaves. Remove any leaves that would be submerged in water or potting medium to prevent rot.
Cuttings can be rooted in various mediums, including water, sphagnum moss, perlite, or a light soil mix. When rooting in water, change the water every few days for freshness. For solid mediums, keep them consistently moist but not soggy. Providing warmth and high humidity around the cuttings accelerates the rooting process. Roots typically form within two to six weeks, after which the new plant can be transitioned to a permanent potting mix.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Philodendron el Choco Red exhibits several signs if its care requirements are not met. Yellowing leaves, especially on older foliage, often indicate overwatering or poorly draining soil, which can lead to root rot. Conversely, brown, crispy edges on leaves suggest insufficient humidity or infrequent watering. Stunted growth or a lack of vibrant color can point to inadequate light or nutrient deficiency. Adjusting watering frequency, increasing humidity, optimizing light, or initiating a fertilization schedule can resolve these issues.
The plant is also susceptible to common houseplant pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips. Spider mites often appear in dry conditions, while mealybugs may be found in leaf axils. Regularly inspecting the plant and wiping down leaves helps detect and deter pests. For an infestation, insecticidal soap can manage these problems effectively. Fungal issues like leaf spot or root rot can occur; addressing overwatering and ensuring good air circulation are important preventative measures.