The Blushing Philodendron, scientifically known as Philodendron erubescens, is a popular ornamental houseplant, known for its striking foliage. Its name comes from the distinct reddish hues on its stems and new leaves, creating a “blushing” effect. While often grown for its visual appeal, it can produce unique flowers under the right conditions.
Understanding the Blushing Philodendron Flower
The Blushing Philodendron flower exhibits a specialized structure: a spathe and a spadix. The spathe is a modified leaf that envelops the spadix, a fleshy spike containing numerous tiny, true flowers.
For Philodendron erubescens, the spathe is the most noticeable part of the bloom, often displaying colors like cream, green, or reddish-brown, and can reach up to 6 inches long. The true flowers on the spadix are typically inconspicuous and small, serving the reproductive function within the enclosed spathe.
Flowering Habits and Rarity
Blushing Philodendrons flower readily in their native tropical environments, such as Colombia, where warm and humid conditions are consistent. However, flowering is rare for plants cultivated indoors. This is due to environmental differences and the plant’s maturity; younger specimens are unlikely to flower. Indoor growers should recognize that a flowering event is uncommon.
Cultivating Conditions for Blushing Philodendron Blooms
Optimizing environmental factors can increase the likelihood, though not guarantee, that a Blushing Philodendron will produce flowers indoors.
Light
Provide bright, indirect light. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and reduced vigor. Placing the plant near an east or north-facing window, or supplementing with artificial grow lights, can help achieve the necessary light intensity without causing leaf scorch.
Humidity and Temperature
High humidity levels are also beneficial, mimicking the plant’s tropical origins. Aim for humidity between 50-60%, which can be maintained by using a humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, or regularly misting the foliage. Consistent warm temperatures are preferred, ideally ranging from 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C), and the plant should be protected from sudden temperature drops or cold drafts.
Soil and Fertilization
A well-draining, peat-based potting mix, possibly with added perlite, provides the suitable growing medium. This type of soil ensures proper drainage, which is important to prevent root rot. During the active growing season, consistent fertilization with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks can support overall plant health and bloom potential. It is important to avoid over-fertilization, which can harm the plant. Only mature plants have the physiological capacity to produce flowers, so patience is necessary.
Post-Flowering and Seed Production
Once a Blushing Philodendron flower opens, its lifespan is typically short, usually lasting only a few days to a week before fading. If pollination occurs, which is extremely rare for indoor plants without manual intervention, the flower may produce seeds.
After the bloom has spent its energy, it is recommended to remove the spent flower. This redirects the plant’s energy back into foliage growth and overall vigor, rather than expending resources on unlikely seed development.