Philodendron ‘Red Heart’ is a distinct cultivar celebrated for its striking foliage, which presents a captivating blend of deep green leaves adorned with vibrant reddish-pink new growth. The new leaves emerge with a pronounced reddish hue before gradually maturing to a darker green, creating a dynamic visual display. Its compact growth habit and relatively easy care requirements contribute to its widespread popularity as an ornamental houseplant.
Philodendron Red Heart Care Essentials
Philodendron ‘Red Heart’ thrives in bright, indirect light. An east-facing window or a few feet from a south or west-facing window often provides suitable illumination. Direct sun, particularly during harsh midday hours, can scorch leaves, resulting in brown or crispy patches. Insufficient light causes leggy growth, characterized by elongated stems and smaller, less vibrant leaves as it stretches for light.
A consistent “drench and dry” watering routine is important. Water thoroughly until it drains from the pot’s bottom, then allow the top two to three inches of soil to dry completely before the next watering. Overwatering often signals yellowing leaves, indicating root rot due to overly saturated soil conditions. Underwatering can cause leaves to wilt or become crispy at the edges.
Philodendron ‘Red Heart’ thrives in a well-draining, airy soil mix. A suitable blend includes peat moss or coco coir for moisture retention, perlite or coarse sand for drainage, and orchid bark or horticultural charcoal for aeration. This mix prevents waterlogging and root rot, while allowing proper oxygen exchange, supporting robust growth.
Optimal temperature and humidity levels promote healthy growth. These plants flourish in temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C-27°C) and are sensitive to sudden drops or cold drafts. High humidity, preferably above 50%, mimics their native tropical environment. This can be achieved by placing the pot on a pebble tray, using a room humidifier, or grouping plants. Low humidity can lead to browning leaf tips, indicating moisture stress.
During the active growing season (spring through early fall), a balanced liquid fertilizer provides necessary nutrients. Use a diluted solution, typically half the strength specified on the product label, every two to four weeks. Reduce or pause fertilizing during the cooler winter months when growth slows.
Repotting Your Philodendron Red Heart
Repotting Philodendron ‘Red Heart’ is necessary when it outgrows its container. Signs include roots emerging from drainage holes, slowed growth despite consistent care, or water draining immediately through the soil, indicating it is root-bound. The best time for repotting is spring or early summer, coinciding with the plant’s active growth phase.
Select a new pot one to two inches larger than the previous one. Gently remove the plant, carefully loosen any circling roots, and place it in the new container with fresh, well-draining potting mix. Position the plant at the same soil level as before to avoid stem rot. After repotting, water thoroughly to settle the new soil.
Propagating Philodendron Red Heart
Propagating Philodendron ‘Red Heart’ is effectively done through stem cuttings. The optimal time is spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. To prepare a cutting, select a healthy stem with at least two to three leaves and a node, where leaves and roots emerge.
Make a clean cut just below a node, ensuring the cutting is four to six inches long. Remove the lowest leaf or two to expose the node. Cuttings can be placed in a glass of water, ensuring the node is submerged, changing the water every few days to prevent bacterial growth. Alternatively, plant cuttings directly into a moist, well-draining potting mix.
Common Issues and Solutions
Yellowing leaves often indicate a watering issue. Consistently soggy soil suggests overwatering, which can lead to root problems; allow the soil to dry more between waterings. If leaves are yellow and crispy, it indicates underwatering, requiring more frequent, thorough watering.
Browning leaf tips are a symptom of low humidity. Increase humidity using pebble trays or humidifiers. Leggy growth, characterized by stretched stems and sparse foliage, signals insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location with indirect light encourages more compact growth.
Pest infestations, such as spider mites, mealybugs, or aphids, can affect Philodendron ‘Red Heart’. Signs include small webs, sticky residue, or visible insects. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth or treat with insecticidal soap. Consistent inspection aids early detection and prevents widespread infestations.