The philodendron erubescens is prized for its deep burgundy stems and dark leaves, a coloration that fades if the light is too dim. This stunning climbing plant, often called the Blushing Philodendron, brings a touch of drama to any indoor space. It is a favorite among plant lovers for its unique coloring and relatively easy care routine.
If you are looking for a statement plant that doesn’t demand constant attention, this is a great choice. The deep green leaves with reddish undersides and the striking stems make it stand out from the crowd. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about keeping this beauty thriving in your home.
Philodendron Erubescens: An Overview
This plant is a tropical native, hailing from the rainforests of Central and South America. In its natural habitat, it climbs up trees, using its aerial roots to reach for the light. Indoors, you can let it climb a moss pole or trail from a hanging basket, both look fantastic.
The leaves are typically heart-shaped and can grow quite large, especially when the plant is given proper support. The “blush” in its name comes from the reddish or burgundy tones found on the stems, leaf undersides, and new growth. It is a vigorous grower when happy, making it a rewarding plant to care for.
Key Features And Appearance
You will quickly notice the distinct coloring that sets this plant apart from other philodendrons. The new leaves emerge with a bright red or pink hue before maturing to a deep, dark green. The contrast between the old and new growth is one of the most appealing aspects of this plant.
- Stems: The stems are a deep burgundy or wine-red color, which is the plant’s most defining feature.
- Leaves: Mature leaves are dark green, elongated, and heart-shaped with a slight red or bronze tint on the underside.
- Growth Habit: It is a hemiepiphyte, meaning it starts life on the ground and climbs up trees. This makes it perfect for a moss pole.
- Size: Indoors, it can reach 4 to 8 feet in height with proper support, though it grows slower in lower light.
Why Choose This Plant?
There are many reasons to add this philodendron to your collection. Its unique color palette offers a nice break from the standard green houseplants. It is also a relatively fast grower, giving you the satisfaction of seeing new leaves unfurl regularly.
Compared to some fussy tropicals, this one is forgiving. It will tolerate a missed watering now and then, though it prefers consistency. It also purifies the air, making it a beautiful and functional addition to your living room or office.
Optimal Light Conditions
Getting the light right is the single most important factor for keeping the burgundy color vibrant. The philodendron erubescens needs bright, indirect light to maintain its deep hues. If the light is too low, the new leaves will come in greener and the stems will lose their red tint.
Think about how the plant looks in its natural habitat, on the forest floor with dappled sunlight. You want to replicate that. A spot near an east-facing window is often ideal. A north-facing window might be too dark, while direct southern sun can scorch the leaves.
Signs Of Improper Lighting
- Too Much Light: Leaves may develop brown, crispy patches or look washed out and pale.
- Too Little Light: The stems turn green, the leaves become smaller, and the internodal spacing (the space between leaves) stretches out.
- Leggy Growth: If the plant looks sparse and is reaching towards the window, it needs more light.
If you notice the color fading, slowly move the plant to a brighter location. Do not make sudden changes, as this can shock the plant. A gradual adjustment over a week is best.
Watering And Humidity Needs
Proper watering is key to avoiding root rot, which is the most common killer of indoor philodendrons. The goal is to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. You should let the top inch or two of soil dry out completely before watering again.
Stick your finger into the soil to check the moisture level. If it feels dry at your first knuckle, it is time to water. When you do water, water thoroughly until it runs out of the drainage holes. Discard any excess water from the saucer to prevent the roots from sitting in water.
Watering Frequency Guide
- Check the soil: Insert your finger about 2 inches into the potting mix.
- Feel for moisture: If it is dry, proceed to water. If it is damp, wait a few more days.
- Water deeply: Pour water evenly over the soil surface until it drains from the bottom.
- Empty the saucer: Never let the pot sit in standing water for more than 30 minutes.
Humidity is also important. While this plant tolerates average household humidity, it thrives in higher levels. You can increase humidity by grouping it with other plants, using a pebble tray, or running a humidifier nearby. Brown, crispy leaf edges are a common sign of low humidity.
Soil And Repotting Requirements
Using the right soil mix is crucial for preventing root rot and ensuring healthy growth. A chunky, well-aerated mix is best. You want something that holds moisture but also allows for plenty of oxygen to reach the roots. A standard potting mix combined with perlite and orchid bark works perfectly.
This mix mimics the airy, organic material the plant grows in naturally. It allows water to flow through easily while keeping the roots moist. Avoid heavy, compacted garden soil, which can suffocate the roots and lead to disease.
Best Potting Mix Recipe
- 2 parts high-quality indoor potting soil
- 1 part perlite (for drainage)
- 1 part orchid bark (for aeration and structure)
- A handful of horticultural charcoal (to keep the mix fresh)
You should repot your philodendron erubescens every 1-2 years, or when you see roots coming out of the drainage holes. Spring is the best time to repot. Choose a pot that is only 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Going too big can lead to overwatering issues.
Fertilizing For Growth
To encourage lush, fast growth, you should feed your plant during the growing season. This is typically from spring through early autumn. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength is ideal. You can use a general houseplant fertilizer or one specifically formulated for foliage plants.
Fertilizing is not strictly necessary, but it makes a big difference in the size and speed of new leaves. Without it, the plant will still survive, but growth will be slower. Do not fertilize in the winter when the plant is not actively growing.
- Dilute the fertilizer: Mix it at half the recommended strength on the label.
- Water first: Always water the soil before applying fertilizer to avoid burning the roots.
- Apply monthly: Feed once a month during the spring and summer months.
- Stop in winter: Pause fertilizing from late autumn to early spring.
Pruning And Propagation
Pruning is a great way to control the size of your plant and encourage bushier growth. If your philodendron erubescens is getting too long or leggy, you can cut it back. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to make a cut just below a node (the bump where a leaf attaches to the stem).
You can also prune to remove any yellowing or damaged leaves. This keeps the plant looking tidy and directs energy to healthier parts. Pruning is best done in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.
How To Propagate In Water
Propagation is easy and a fun way to get more plants. The cuttings you take from pruning are perfect for this. You can root them in water or directly in soil, but water is the most reliable method for beginners.
- Take a cutting: Cut a 4-6 inch section of stem with at least one node and one or two leaves.
- Place in water: Put the cutting in a glass jar filled with room-temperature water, ensuring the node is submerged.
- Wait for roots: Place the jar in a bright spot with indirect light. Change the water every few days.
- Plant the cutting: Once roots are at least 2 inches long, transfer the cutting to a pot with your aroid soil mix.
Common Problems And Solutions
Even with the best care, you might encounter a few issues. The good news is that most problems are easy to fix if you catch them early. Here are the most common issues with this plant and how to solve them.
Yellowing Leaves
This is often a sign of overwatering. Check the soil moisture. If it is wet, you are watering too often. Let the soil dry out more between waterings. Yellow leaves can also be a sign of nutrient deficiency, but overwatering is the more likely culprit.
Brown, Crispy Edges
This usually indicates a lack of humidity or inconsistent watering. The plant might be drying out too much between waterings. Try increasing humidity around the plant and check the soil more frequently to ensure it is not drying out completely.
Pests
Like most houseplants, this philodendron can be susceptible to pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Inspect the leaves regularly, especially the undersides. If you see pests, wipe the leaves with a damp cloth and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Supporting Your Climbing Philodendron
To get the largest leaves and most impressive growth, you should give your plant something to climb. In nature, these plants grow up trees. Indoors, a moss pole or a coco coir pole is perfect. When the aerial roots attach to the pole, the plant will produce much larger leaves.
Without support, the plant will trail or hang, and the leaves will stay smaller. Both looks are nice, but a moss pole really showcases the plant’s potential. You can also use a trellis or a wooden plank as an alternative.
- Moss Pole: This is the best option for aerial roots to grip. Keep the moss slightly damp.
- Coco Coir Pole: A good alternative, though the roots don’t attach as easily.
- Trellis: A decorative option that provides structure but doesn’t hold moisture.
To attach the plant, gently tie the stem to the pole with soft plant ties or twist ties. The aerial roots will eventually grow into the moss, anchoring the plant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people have about caring for this beautiful plant.
Is The Philodendron Erubescens Toxic To Pets?
Yes, like all philodendrons, this plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. It contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation, drooling, and vomiting. It is best to keep it out of reach of curious pets.
Why Are The New Leaves On My Philodendron Erubescens Not Red?
This is almost always a light issue. The red and burgundy coloring is intensified by bright, indirect light. If your plant is in a darker spot, the new leaves will emerge greener. Move it to a brighter location to bring back the color.
Can I Grow This Plant In Low Light?
It will survive in low light, but it will not thrive. Growth will be slow, the stems will lose their red color, and the leaves will be smaller. For the best appearance, provide it with medium to bright indirect light.
How Often Should I Water My Philodendron Erubescens?
There is no set schedule. It depends on your home’s temperature, humidity, and the pot size. A good rule of thumb is to water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. This might be once a week, or it might be every 10 days.
Why Are The Leaves On My Plant Curling?
Curling leaves usually indicate that the plant is thirsty or that the roots are damaged. Check the soil moisture. If it is bone dry, give it a good drink. If the soil is wet, you might have root rot, and you will need to check the roots.
Final Care Summary
Caring for a philodendron erubescens is a rewarding experience. It is a stunning plant that grows quickly and makes a statement in any room. By providing the right light, water, and support, you will be rewarded with large, vibrant leaves and that beautiful burgundy color.
Remember to be patient. Plants take time to adjust to new environments. If you notice a few yellow leaves after bringing it home, that is normal. Just remove them and give the plant time to settle in. With a little attention, this blushing beauty will become a favorite in your collection.
Keep an eye on the light levels and water habits, and you will have a thriving climber for years to come. The deep colors and elegant leaves make it a worthwhile addition to any plant lover’s home. It is a robust plant that rewards consistent care with impressive growth.
Dont be afraid to experiment with different supports or locations to see what your plant likes best. Each home is different, and finding the perfect spot for your plant is part of the fun. The philodendron erubescens is a resilient plant that will forgive a few mistakes along the way.
Make sure to check the leaves every week for any signs of pests or stress. Early intervention is the key to keeping your plant healthy. Wiping the leaves down occasionally also helps the plant breathe better and photosynthesize more efficiently.
If you are looking for a plant that combines beauty with ease of care, look no futher. This philodendron is a true gem. Its dramatic coloring and vining nature make it a versatile choice for shelves, tables, or hanging baskets. Enjoy watching it grow and change with the seasons.
With the right conditions, you might even see it bloom indoors, though this is rare. The flowers are not particularly showy, but they are a sign that your plant is extremely happy. Focus on the foliage, and the rest will follow. Happy planting.