Blushing Philodendron
philodendron erubescens
Also known as: ["Blushing Philodendron","Red-leaf Philodendron"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen vine with dark green leaves and reddish undersides, known for its trailing habit and air-purifying qualities.
Benefits & Perks
["air purifying","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Philodendron |
| Botanical Name: | Philodendron erubescens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright room with indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–29°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with peat, perlite, and orchid bark.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to lower light in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure proper drainage.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; refresh soil annually.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers stable temperatures; avoid drafts.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional change.
Hormone
Optional, but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), water or soil medium, plastic bag (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Use nodes for better rooting; keep cuttings warm and humid; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut just above a leaf node or aerial root; use clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth, yellow leaves, and overgrown stems to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut at correct angle; remove dead/damaged growth; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes growth and prevents root-bound issues.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, focusing on the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or brown leaf edges in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Causes wilting, leaf burn, and dehydration, especially in high humidity.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; provide shade; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the calcium oxalate crystals in Philodendron erubescens. Ingestion can result in severe oral and esophageal irritation, leading to pain and potential respiratory distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Philodendron erubescens can lead to significant oral and gastrointestinal irritation due to calcium oxalate crystals. The plant can cause severe discomfort and potential airway obstruction in severe cases.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicPhilodendron erubescens contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause severe irritation and swelling of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract upon ingestion. The physiological impact includes mechanical irritation and potential obstruction of the airway due to swelling.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Philodendron erubescens toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Philodendron erubescens?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7-10 days.
Q: Does Philodendron erubescens need direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers bright, indirect light and can tolerate lower light conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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