The Philodendron ‘Red Anderson’ is a captivating plant, favored by enthusiasts for its striking appearance. Its vibrant foliage and adaptable growth habit make it a desirable addition to indoor plant collections.
Understanding Red Anderson Philodendron
The Philodendron ‘Red Anderson’ has lush, red-hued leaves that range from deep burgundy to bright red, influenced by light exposure and maturity. These broad, heart-shaped leaves have a glossy sheen. Young plants may show lighter shades of red or green, with intense red developing as the plant matures.
Its stems often show hints of red, especially in new growth, complementing the foliage. This plant can either climb or trail. With support like a moss pole, it can grow vertically and reach impressive sizes, potentially expanding several feet.
Essential Care for Red Anderson Philodendron
Light
The ‘Red Anderson’ thrives in bright, indirect light, which encourages rich leaf coloration. Direct harsh sunlight, especially during midday, can scorch its delicate leaves, leading to faded colors or damage. Insufficient light results in leggy growth, causing the plant to stretch and produce smaller, less vibrant leaves.
Watering
The Philodendron ‘Red Anderson’ prefers consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out before watering thoroughly. Overwatering can lead to root rot, signaled by yellowing leaves and a wilted appearance. Underwatering results in droopy, dry leaves.
Soil
A well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix ensures adequate water retention without waterlogging. A suitable substrate combines peat, perlite, and vermiculite for proper balance and aeration. An orchid mix or a blend of orchid bark, perlite, and compost also works well, offering chunky bits to oxygenate the roots. The plant prefers soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
Temperature and Humidity
The Philodendron ‘Red Anderson’ thrives in warm, humid environments, ideally between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is sensitive to cold drafts and temperatures below 55°F (13°C). While it tolerates average indoor humidity, levels of 60% or higher support lush growth. To increase humidity, use a humidifier or place the plant on a pebble tray filled with water.
Fertilizing
During the spring and summer growing season, apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer monthly. This supports vigorous growth and maintains vibrant foliage. Reduce fertilization to every other month in fall and winter when growth naturally slows. Over-fertilizing can be detrimental; follow product instructions carefully.
Pruning
Pruning the Philodendron ‘Red Anderson’ maintains its shape and encourages bushier growth. Remove any yellow or damaged leaves using clean, sharp scissors. Pruning also controls the plant’s size and directs its growth habit, especially for a more compact form.
Propagating Red Anderson Philodendron
Propagating the Philodendron ‘Red Anderson’ is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy, mature stem with at least 2-3 leaves and visible nodes. A node is a small bump on the stem where roots and new growth emerge.
Using clean, sharp scissors or a knife, cut just below a node, aiming for a 4-6 inch long cutting. Remove any lower leaves to expose the node, preventing rotting when placed in water or soil.
Place the cutting in a glass of water, ensuring the node is submerged, and change the water every few days to keep it fresh. Alternatively, plant the cutting directly into moist, well-draining soil, burying the node. Place the cutting in a warm, bright location away from direct sunlight, ideally with high humidity. Roots typically develop within a few weeks.
Addressing Common Red Anderson Philodendron Issues
Even with consistent care, Philodendron ‘Red Anderson’ may encounter issues like leaf discoloration, pest infestations, or stunted growth. Yellowing leaves signal overwatering, indicating waterlogged soil and potential root rot. To address this, allow the topsoil to dry more between waterings and ensure adequate pot drainage. Dry, droopy leaves suggest underwatering, requiring more frequent moisture.
Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and scale insects, which feed on plant sap. Regular inspection helps early detection and prevention. If pests are found, isolate the plant and treat with manual removal or a gentle, natural insecticide like neem oil or insecticidal soap. Stunted growth or leggy stems indicate insufficient light, meaning the plant needs a brighter location with indirect sunlight.