Philodendron ‘Rush’ is a popular indoor plant known for its attractive foliage and straightforward care. It offers a lush, tropical aesthetic, making it a favored choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts.
What Makes Philodendron ‘Rush’ Unique
Philodendron ‘Rush’ is an upright, self-heading variety, forming a crown of leaves rather than vining. Its foliage emerges bright lemon-lime, maturing into a vibrant green. Unlike some other philodendrons, older leaves retain a brighter yellow chartreuse color. This plant typically grows 50 cm to 1 meter in height and width.
Comprehensive Care for Your Philodendron ‘Rush’
Light Requirements
Philodendron ‘Rush’ thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat under a tree canopy. An east or west-facing window is often ideal, providing gentle morning or afternoon sun without harsh rays. Too much direct sunlight can scorch leaves, causing bleaching or brown patches. Insufficient light results in slowed growth, smaller new leaves, or leggy stems as the plant stretches for illumination.
Watering Practices
Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry between waterings. Overwatering suffocates roots and leads to root rot, indicated by yellowing, drooping leaves and oversaturated soil. Underwatered plants show wilting, shriveled leaves, browning edges, or a limp, crispy appearance. Adjust watering based on light and temperature to maintain soil moisture. Water slowly with room temperature water until it drains from the pot, discarding excess from the saucer.
Soil Mix
Philodendron ‘Rush’ needs a well-draining, aerated potting mix to prevent waterlogging and promote healthy root development. A suitable mix includes elements for drainage and moisture retention. Common components are potting soil, coco coir, perlite, and orchid bark. The mix should also be rich in nutrients, with organic matter like peat moss or compost, and have a slightly acidic pH (5.0-6.0).
Temperature and Humidity
Philodendron ‘Rush’ prefers average room temperatures, thriving between 18°C to 29°C (65°F to 85°F). Protect the plant from cold drafts; temperatures below 12°C (52°F) can cause leaf shedding and drooping. As a tropical plant, it appreciates humidity. While it tolerates typical indoor levels, higher humidity promotes better growth. Increase humidity by misting foliage regularly or placing the pot on a pebble tray.
Fertilization
During spring and summer, Philodendron ‘Rush’ benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a high-quality, balanced houseplant fertilizer once or twice a month. Dilute liquid fertilizers to one-quarter or one-half strength to prevent over-fertilization, which can burn the root system. Reduce or stop fertilization during winter when growth naturally slows.
Troubleshooting Common Philodendron ‘Rush’ Problems
Philodendron ‘Rush’ communicates its needs through visible signs. Recognizing these indicators allows for timely intervention to maintain health.
Yellowing leaves often signal overwatering or underwatering. Consistently wet soil and yellowing younger leaves typically indicate overwatering and potential root rot. If older leaves turn yellow and the soil is dry, underwatering is likely. For overwatering, allow the soil to dry thoroughly before the next watering and ensure proper drainage. For underwatering, provide a thorough watering until it drains from the pot.
Browning leaf tips or edges indicate low humidity or consistent underwatering, leading to dry, crispy leaves. Increase humidity through misting or pebble trays, and adjust watering frequency. Leggy growth, characterized by long spaces between leaves and smaller new foliage, usually signals insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location with indirect light or supplement with a grow light.
Pests like spider mites and mealybugs can affect Philodendron ‘Rush’. Regularly inspect the plant and wipe leaves with a damp cloth to help prevent infestations. If pests are present, control them with diluted rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap applied directly to affected areas.
Propagating Philodendron ‘Rush’
Propagating Philodendron ‘Rush’ is a straightforward process, commonly achieved through stem cuttings. This method allows for the creation of new plants from a mature specimen.
To propagate, select a healthy stem and use clean, sharp pruning shears to cut a 7.5 to 15 cm (3 to 6 inch) section. The cutting should include at least two to three leaves and a node, a small bump on the stem where roots and new leaves emerge. Make the cut at a 45-degree angle just below a node.
Stem cuttings can be rooted in water or a well-draining potting mix. For water rooting, place the cutting in a jar with enough water to cover the node, changing water every few days. For soil rooting, plant the cutting directly into a small pot with suitable potting mix, ensuring the node is buried. Roots typically form within a few weeks. Once a healthy root system develops, transplant the new plant into a larger pot.