Philodendron Erubescens: Care & Growing Guide

Philodendron Erubescens, also known by its common name Red Emerald Philodendron, belongs to the Araceae family. Being a tropical evergreen plant, it’s categorized as a climbing or trailing vine type. 

Its large, glossy leaves have an attractive red hue on the underside, giving it a distinctive appearance. In terms of its flowering attributes, it rarely flowers indoors, but when it does, the flowers are typically greenish-white spathes that enclose a spadix. 

Special care should be taken with Philodendron Erubescens, as all parts of the plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, making it toxic to humans and pets if ingested. Wearing gloves during handling is advisable. 

Finally, it’s important to recognize that this unique plant’s native area is in the rainforests of Central and South America, where the warm and humid conditions provide the perfect environment for growth. 

How to Care for Philodendron Erubescens

Philodendron Erubescens is a beautiful tropical plant that thrives indoors. Start by selecting a spot with bright, indirect sunlight, as direct exposure can scorch the leaves. Plant it in a well-draining soil mixed with peat, perlite, and pine bark, which allows air to reach the roots. 

Water when the top inch of soil is dry; overwatering can lead to root rot. Maintain a humid environment, preferably around 60%, by misting or using a humidifier. Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season, and prune old or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth.

Light

Place your Philodendron plants near a window with bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight may scorch the leaves, so a sheer curtain can be useful to filter the rays. East or North-facing windows are typically best. 

If natural light is insufficient, consider using a fluorescent grow light. Keep the plant 6-8 feet from the window to avoid too much exposure. Monitor the leaves; yellowing may indicate too much light, while leggy growth may signal too little..

Water

First, assess the soil’s moisture by touching it; if it’s dry an inch below the surface, it’s time to water. Use room-temperature filtered water to avoid shocking the plant. Gently pour the water evenly around the base until it starts to drain from the bottom.

Avoid oversaturating, as this plant prefers to be on the drier side. If potted, empty the drainage tray to prevent the roots from sitting in water, as this can cause rot. Repeat this process roughly once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.

Soil

Start by choosing a potting mix that consists of equal parts peat, perlite, and pine bark for good drainage and aeration. Test the soil pH, aiming for a slightly acidic level of 5.5 to 6.0, and adjust if necessary using lime or sulfur. 

Wet the soil slightly before planting. Add the soil to the pot, leaving room for the plant’s root system. Gently place the Blushing philodendron in the soil, and then fill around the roots, firming gently. Water lightly to settle the soil, ensuring it remains moist but not soggy.

Fertilizer

Imperial red philodendron, also known as the Red-Leaf Philodendron, requires specific care with fertilization to thrive. Begin by selecting a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20) that includes micronutrients. Water the plant thoroughly before fertilizing to prevent root burn. 

Next, mix the fertilizer with water according to the instructions on the package; typically, it’s about 1 teaspoon per gallon of water. Apply this solution to the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer), reducing it to every 6-8 weeks in fall and winter. 

Temperature and Humidity

Place your P. erubescens in an area with a temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C), avoiding sudden temperature changes. To maintain the 40-60% humidity it thrives in, mist the leaves with water daily or place the pot on a tray filled with wet pebbles. 

Keep away from drafts and direct heat sources like radiators. During winter, use a humidifier to prevent the air from becoming too dry. Monitoring the room with a humidity gauge can be helpful in ensuring the perfect environment for this beautiful tropical plant to flourish.

How to propagate Philodendron Erubescens

Propagating Philodendrons is a simple process that anyone can do. Start by choosing a healthy parent plant and identify a stem with a leaf node, which is where the leaf and stem meet. 

Cut a 4-6 inch section just below the node using a clean, sharp pair of scissors or knife. Remove any lower leaves, leaving one or two on the cutting. Fill a glass or jar with water and place the cutting in it, making sure the node is submerged. 

Place the glass in a bright but indirect sunlight location and change the water every few days. After a couple of weeks, you should see roots forming. Once the roots are a few inches long, it’s time to transplant your new Blushing philodendron into the soil. 

Fill a pot with well-draining soil, dig a hole, place the rooted cutting in, and cover the roots with soil. Water it well and continue to care for it as you would any Philodendron, and soon you’ll have a thriving new plant.

Pruning

Pruning Blushing philodendron, is essential for maintaining its shape and promoting new growth. Start by selecting the right time to prune, ideally during the growing season. Then, with a pair of clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, remove any yellow or dead leaves at the base. 

Cut any overgrown or unwanted vines at a 45-degree angle just above a leaf node, where new growth emerges. If you wish to propagate the cuttings, place them in water or soil immediately after cutting. Make sure to prune no more than 20-30% of the plant at a time to avoid stressing it. 

After pruning, wipe down the blades of your scissors or shears with rubbing alcohol to prevent the spread of disease. Regular pruning not only encourages bushier growth but also helps in keeping your Philodendron Plants healthy and vibrant.

Types of Philodendron Erubescens

P. erubescens, also known as the Red Emerald Philodendron, is a popular houseplant that exhibits beautiful foliage. There are several types of Blushing philodendron that you might want to consider for your home.

• Philodendron ‘Red Emerald’: This type has deep green leaves with a red tint on the undersides. It requires moderate sunlight and regular watering.
• Philodendron ‘Imperial Red’: The Imperial Red has burgundy-red leaves and thrives in low to medium light. It needs regular watering but should be allowed to dry slightly between watering.
• Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’: This type is famous for its pink variegated leaves. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight and consistent watering to maintain its unique coloration.
• Philodendron ‘Royal Queen’: With dark green leaves and red stems, this variety prefers moderate light and regular but not excessive watering.

When selecting the right Philodendron Erubescens for your home, consider factors such as lighting conditions, watering needs, and aesthetic preferences. Whether you choose a Red Emerald, Imperial Red, Pink Princess, or Royal Queen, each type offers a distinct appearance and care requirements that will add beauty and elegance to your living space.

How to Grow Philodendron Erubescens From Seed

Prepare a soil mix of peat moss, perlite, and compost, ensuring good drainage. Fill a pot with the mix and place the seed on the surface, gently pressing it in without completely covering it. Water it lightly to moisten the soil. Keep the pot in a warm location, ideally between 65-75°F (18-24°C), and provide bright, indirect light. 

Use a humidity dome or plastic bag to retain moisture. Be patient, as germination may take several weeks. Once the seedling appears, continue to keep the soil lightly moist and provide indirect sunlight. Gradually harden off the plant as it grows, moving it to its final location, and provide routine care with watering, 

Potting and Repotting

Choose a pot with adequate drainage that’s roughly 2 inches larger in diameter than the current container. For potting, fill it one-third full with a well-draining soil mix, particularly one high in organic matter. 

Carefully remove the Philodendron Erubescens from its current pot, gently loosening the roots if compacted. Place the plant into the new pot, ensuring that the root ball is at the same level it was in the previous container. 

Fill in the remaining space with soil, lightly packing it around the roots, leaving some space from the top of the pot for watering. Water the plant thoroughly and place it in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. For repotting, follow the same process but ensure to trim any dead or decaying roots before placing them in the new pot.

How to Get Philodendron Erubescens to Bloom

Philodendron Erubescens(Blushing philodendron) typically focuses on foliage growth rather than blooming. However, you can encourage blooming with proper care. First, place the plant in bright, indirect sunlight, as direct sun can harm the leaves. 

Use well-draining soil and water only when the top inch is dry, preventing root rot. Feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during the growing season, but avoid over-fertilizing. Prune old or dead growth to stimulate new growth. Maintain humidity levels at 60-70% and keep the temperature between 65-75°F.

Overwintering

Overwintering Philodendron Erubescens requires some special care to ensure it thrives during the colder months. First, reduce watering since the plant’s growth slows down, but keep the soil lightly moist. Second, keep the temperature around 65-70°F (18-21°C), avoiding cold drafts from windows or doors. 

Third, provide bright but indirect light, as direct winter sunlight can be harsh. Fourth, maintain humidity by using a humidifier or placing a water-filled tray near the plant; Philodendrons enjoy higher humidity. 

Fifth, cut back on fertilizing until spring as the plant won’t utilize as many nutrients. Lastly, inspect regularly for pests or diseases that may take advantage of the plant in its weakened winter state.

Pests and Diseases

Philodendron Erubescens is an elegant tropical plant renowned for its vibrant foliage. However, it can fall victim to various pests and plant diseases that may mar its appearance and vigor. 

Common pests include aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites, which suck the sap from the plant and lead to a loss of vitality. A weak or stressed Blushing philodendron is also prone to diseases like root rot, often caused by overwatering or poor soil drainage. 

The use of a well-draining soil mix, a careful watering routine, and an occasional application of insecticidal soap can help to prevent these problems. Regular inspection for signs of pests or disease, along with prompt isolation and treatment of affected plants, will also go a long way in maintaining the health and beauty of your P. Erubescens. 

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