The Philodendron ‘Red Sun’ is a captivating hybrid known for its dramatic, shifting leaf colors. New leaves emerge vibrant reddish-orange, deepening to burgundy or maroon before maturing to a rich, dark green. This striking display on its oval, glossy foliage makes it a sought-after ornamental houseplant. Its straightforward care suits many plant enthusiasts.
Caring for Philodendron ‘Red Sun’
Light Needs
Philodendron ‘Red Sun’ thrives in bright, indirect light. Ample indirect sunlight encourages vibrant new foliage; direct sun can scorch leaves and fade red tones. Insufficient light causes color loss or leggy growth. Position it near a window with filtered light or in a bright room away from direct sunbeams.
Watering Practices
Allow the top inch or two (2-3 cm) of soil to dry completely before rewatering. Water thoroughly until excess drains from the pot, ensuring roots receive moisture. Overwatering causes root rot, yellowing leaves, soggy soil, or mushy stems. Underwatering may cause leaves to droop or become crispy. Adjust frequency seasonally, reducing it in cooler months.
Ideal Soil Mix
A well-draining, airy, nutrient-rich soil mix suits Philodendron ‘Red Sun’. This mix allows good aeration and prevents waterlogging, which can suffocate roots. A recommended blend includes peat moss or coco coir, perlite, and orchid bark or coarse sand. This combination balances moisture retention and drainage, mimicking its tropical environment.
Temperature and Humidity
Philodendron ‘Red Sun’ prefers warm, stable conditions, ideally 65-80°F (18-27°C). It is sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, which negatively impact growth. It thrives in moderate to high humidity (ideally 50-70%). To increase humidity, group plants, use a pebble tray, or a room humidifier. Regular misting can help, but avoid over-misting to prevent fungal growth.
Fertilizing Your Plant
During its active growing season (spring and summer), Philodendron ‘Red Sun’ benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, is recommended every 4-6 weeks. During fall and winter, reduce or stop fertilization. Over-fertilizing can harm roots and cause leaf browning.
Repotting Your Plant
Repotting Philodendron ‘Red Sun’ is necessary every 1-2 years as the plant grows. Signs include roots circling the pot, emerging from drainage holes, or water running straight through the soil. Select a pot only slightly larger to prevent overwatering. Fresh, well-draining potting mix replenishes nutrients and provides renewed space for root development. Repot in spring.
Propagating Philodendron ‘Red Sun’
Propagating Philodendron ‘Red Sun’ is achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with at least one or two nodes (points where leaves and roots emerge). Use sharp, sterilized scissors or pruning shears to cut below a node. Remove any leaves from the submerged stem portion.
Cuttings can be rooted in water or directly in moist, well-draining soil. For water propagation, place the cutting in a clear container, ensuring nodes are submerged, and change water every few days. For soil propagation, insert the cut end into moist, well-draining potting mix. Keep the rooting medium consistently moist in bright, indirect light. Root development occurs within weeks, after which the plant can be transplanted.
Addressing Common Issues
Yellowing leaves often point to watering issues: overwatering can lead to root rot and widespread yellowing (particularly at the plant’s base), while underwatering can result in yellowing or wilting. Allowing topsoil to dry before rewatering resolves this. Nutrient deficiencies can also cause yellowing foliage.
Browning leaf tips indicate low humidity or inconsistent watering. Increasing ambient humidity with pebble trays or a humidifier alleviates this. Leggy growth (long stems with sparse leaves) signals insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location with indirect light encourages bushier growth and vibrant leaf color.
Common houseplant pests like spider mites and mealybugs can affect Philodendron ‘Red Sun’. Regular inspection and prompt treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil manages infestations.